Food Waste Landfill Bans and the Industry Response A Perspective on the Challenges and Opportunities Detachable Container Association February 11, 2015 - Nevis Skip Berg, Labrie Enviroquip Doug Button, South San Francisco Scavenger Mike Camara, ABC Disposal Jim Wollschlager, Randy’s Sanitation Ron McCracken, RJM & Associates

Predicting the future of waste stream fragmentation. The New Yorker November 2007 Predicting the future of waste stream fragmentation. Food Waste Only

2012 Total MSW Generation 251 M Tons (pre-recycling) A challenge to get a high diversion rare with out addressing food waste Paper: 27.4% Food Waste: 14.5% Yard Trimmings: 13.5% Plastics: 12.7% Metals: 8.9% Rubber, Leather, and Textiles: 8.7% Wood: 6.3% Glass: 4.6% Other: 3.4% Source EPA

Why Divert Food Waste From Landfills?   Why Divert Food Waste From Landfills? Reducing the amount of food wasted has significant economic, social & environmental benefits: Environmental Benefits Reduce Methane From Landfills - When food is disposed in a landfill it becomes a significant source of methane. Landfills are a major source of human-related methane in the United States, accounting for more than 20 percent of all methane emissions. Reduce Resource Use Associated with Food Production - There are many resources needed to grow food, including water, fertilizers, pesticides, and energy. By wasting food, you are also wasting the resources that went into growth and production Create A Valuable Soil Amendment - Recycling food waste and turning it into compost has many environmental benefits such as improving soil health and structure; increasing drought resistance; and reducing the need for supplemental water, fertilizers, and pesticides. Anaerobic Digestion- Food waste can also be turned into renewable energy and a soil amendment through anaerobic digestion. Improve Sanitation, Public Safety, and Health at Your Facility - Food waste can generate odors and attract rodents or insects. Placing food scraps in a sealed bag, or closed, leak-proof, and reusable container, and having it frequently collected can reduce, and even eliminate these problems. Source EPA www.epa.gov/foodrecovery (edits by RJM)

Why Divert Food Waste From Landfills?   Why Divert Food Waste From Landfills? Reducing the amount of food wasted has significant economic, social & environmental benefits: Economic Benefits Lower Disposal Costs - By decreasing the amount of food wasted, businesses dispose less trash. Costs may drop if the food waste is separated from the trash and sent for composting. Reduce Over-Purchasing and Labor Costs - By making strides to prevent food waste, businesses can reduce costs by purchasing only the food that will be used, or decreasing improperly prepared foods. Additionally, reducing food waste can increase staff efficiency and reduce energy and labor associated with disposing of food. Receive Tax Benefits by Donating Food - By donating wholesome and edible food to food banks or food rescue organizations, businesses can claim tax benefits as well as feed those in need. Source EPA www.epa.gov/foodrecovery Edits by RJM

Why Divert Food Waste From Landfills? Reducing the amount of food wasted has significant economic, social & environmental benefits: Social Benefits Feed People, Not Disposal - An estimated 50 million Americans do not have access to enough food. Organizations can donate safe and healthy food to a food bank or food rescue organization and both reduce food disposed and feed those in need. Source EPA www.epa.gov/foodrecovery, Edits by RJM

Source EPA www.epa.gov/foodrecovery/

States that Ban Organics or Mandate Organic Recycling – October 2014

BioCycle January 2015

BioCycle January 2015

Industry Response What has been the local reaction to calls for food waste recycling or diversion? Have you seen an increase in dehydrators or on-site anerobic digestors? What special collection routes or equipment have you considered? Do you use containers, carts or bags? Do we need to be more proactive as an industry or Association in response to the food waste initiative?

Next Steps? Determine status of local regulations Get involved with Association response Engage suppliers who may provide options/solutions INNOVATE! Lead the movement REMEMBER – We were Green before it was cool! Thank you….