From Rotting Food to Rising Temperatures: Uncovering Michigan’s Role in Methane Pollution Through Landfills

In Michigan, a significant issue is brewing: food waste. Shockingly, about 19% of all landfill waste in the state is food, a rise from 13.5% just a few years ago. This growing problem has consequences. Food decomposing in landfills produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.

Take Janet Damian, for example. She’s a retired medical administrator turned food rescue volunteer with Food Rescue US- Detroit. One of her memorable experiences involved rescuing 300 pounds of raw chicken that was not suitable for a local school. Despite the difficulties, including a messy car, she finds joy in redistributing food to those in need. “It’s just a sense of satisfaction,” she says.

As it stands, over 1.5 million tons of food are wasted annually in Michigan, with much of it still good to eat. Instead of being consumed, most of this food goes to landfills, contributing to roughly 5% of the state’s methane emissions. According to a 2023 EPA report, a staggering 61% of methane released from landfills is uncollected. This shows how ineffective our current waste management systems can be.

Michigan ranks 8th in the U.S. for total food waste landfilled, with approximately 745,000 tons annually. It’s alarming to note that about $18 to $36 million of this waste represents valuable resources. Furthermore, according to Daniel Schoonmaker, director of the West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum, Michigan farms lose about a billion dollars a year due to food waste that could otherwise help feed people.

Recent legislation aims to tackle this growing concern. The MI Healthy Climate Plan has set a goal to reduce food waste by 50% by 2030. Additionally, the reform in the state’s solid waste law calls for counties to develop plans for organic waste recovery. Yet, progress appears slow and inconsistent.

Despite these challenges, grassroots efforts are gaining traction. Individuals and organizations are innovating ways to reduce waste—from community composting to food rescue programs. This emerging network of change-makers is vital as Michigan continues to grapple with widespread food waste.

The fight against food waste is far from over, but awareness is growing. Every effort counts, whether it’s reducing waste at home, supporting local food rescues, or advocating for better policies. The future of Michigan’s environment may very well depend on it.

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