Rhode Island’s 100K-Ton Food Waste Crisis: Unveiling a Smart Action Plan – ecoRI News

Rhode Island is facing a big problem: about $6.5 million of taxpayer money goes to waste each year because of food ending up in landfills. This not only costs money but also contributes to climate change by producing methane emissions.

The Wasted Food Solutions Action Network (WFSAN) is stepping up to address this issue. They recently released a plan to tackle the 100,000 tons of food waste generated each year in the state. This plan was shaped by nearly 100 local leaders and took a year to develop.

This comprehensive 48-page document outlines ten key actions for Rhode Island to consider in combating food waste and its associated challenges.

Isaac Bearg, the program director for the Food Policy Council, expressed optimism about the diverse group of individuals and businesses involved. He believes their collective efforts can lead Rhode Island toward effective solutions. Similarly, Terry Gray, the director of the Department of Environmental Management (DEM), highlighted the importance of redirecting usable food to those in need and composting organic waste to support sustainability and reduce greenhouse gases.

Michelle Carnevale, president of 11th Hour Racing, noted that the plan aims for a future where food is not wasted, benefiting everyone involved.

Here’s a closer look at the ten priority actions from the plan:

1. Funding and incentives: Establish a “Compost Fund” to support composting initiatives.
2. New models for waste: Align municipal waste contracts to encourage individual and community waste reduction.
3. Support for food recovery organizations: Provide direct funding and expand cold storage for community food programs.
4. Enhance wastewater treatment for seafood: Complete treatment studies and seek additional funding.
5. Community composting support: Identify compost sites and pilot plans within municipalities.
6. Access to land: Create a statewide database for land use to help identify potential sites for food recovery.
7. Enforce food waste legislation: Study implementation costs and ensure adequate funding for enforcement.
8. School programs: Continue funding successful food waste reduction initiatives in schools.
9. Mandatory food service training: Train school food service providers on “offer versus serve” to minimize waste.
10. Education initiatives: Spread awareness about reducing food waste among consumers and businesses.

Food waste in the U.S. is a significant issue. According to the USDA, about 30-40% of the food supply is wasted, costing the economy $218 billion each year. Addressing this problem not only makes sense environmentally but also economically, as communities can save money and provide food to those in need.

Following these recommendations could lead to a more sustainable Rhode Island where food waste is minimized, and resources are better utilized. The efforts in Rhode Island might inspire other states facing similar challenges.

Source link