What percentage of New England's municipal solid waste stream is attributed to food waste?
Answer
Over 22%
The staggering inefficiency of the food system is clearly quantified by the volume of food that is lost or wasted before consumption. In New England, this waste represents a significant environmental burden, estimated to constitute over 22% of the entire municipal solid waste stream generated in the region. While the national pathway for surplus food management often defaults to landfilling (38.1% nationally in 2019), New England handles its waste somewhat differently by directing a higher percentage toward composting compared to the national average. Focusing on reducing this waste offers immediate environmental benefits, potentially mitigating greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to closing numerous coal-fired power plants.
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