Cutting emissions from food waste, only one state in America has done it

illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on ABC News or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: A recent study in Science reveals that most U.S. states are struggling to reduce food waste in landfills, with Massachusetts being the only state to succeed
• The state achieved this through a robust composting network, clear regulations, and strict enforcement, while states like California and Rhode Island have faced significant challenges in their efforts

🔭 The context: Food waste accounts for over half of methane emissions from landfills, a potent greenhouse gas
• While laws aimed at diverting food waste exist in multiple states, many have failed due to insufficient infrastructure, enforcement, and public compliance
• The success of Massachusetts highlights the need for comprehensive support systems and penalties to enforce change

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Reducing food waste can significantly cut emissions from landfills, a critical step in mitigating climate change
• Effective policies could lower methane emissions and promote sustainability in the food industry

⏭️ What's next: States like California and Rhode Island are reevaluating their food waste strategies, with plans to improve enforcement and public education
• Rhode Island aims to update its solid waste management plan by 2026 to better address these challenges

💬 One quote: “Unless you have the infrastructure and the incentive and a way to enforce compliance, then you’re not really doing anything,” said Weslynne Ashton, an environmental management professor

📈 One stat: Food waste contributes over half the methane emissions from U.S. landfills, according to the EPA.

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