It is estimated that over 30% of the United States food supply is wasted. In 2010 an estimated 133 billion pounds of food never was eaten.

Food loss and waste have far-reaching impacts on food security, resource conservation, and climate change. Food loss and waste is the single largest component of disposed of U.S. municipal solid waste and accounts for a significant portion of U.S. methane emissions. Landfills are the third-largest source of methane in the United States. Furthermore, experts have projected that reducing food losses by just 15 percent would provide enough food for more than 25 million Americans every year, helping to sharply reduce incidences of food insecurity for millions.

“Let’s feed people, not landfills. By reducing wasted food in landfills, we cut harmful methane emissions that fuel climate change, conserve our natural resources, and protect our planet for future generations” said EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy.

Food waste is banned from landfills beginning July 1, 2020. Check out the Agency of Natural Resources Food Donation in Vermont and our Food Waste page for helpful suggestions on how to manage yours.

Food Shelves locations