"Local Officials Urge EPA to Address Excessive Food Waste in American Landfills"

Over one-third of food produced in the U.S. is wasted, with much of it ending up in landfills and contributing to methane emissions that accelerate climate change. More than 50 local officials have called on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to help reduce food waste by expanding grant funding and technical assistance for landfill alternatives. The EPA reports highlight the urgent need to address the issue, as 58% of methane emissions from landfills come from food waste. However, reducing waste requires a significant mindset shift from individuals, as households are responsible for at least 40% of food waste in the U.S. Some local governments have taken steps to address the problem, but more support and guidance from the federal level are needed to make substantial changes.