Bill > A2090

This bill requires each solid waste management district in New Jersey to develop and implement a strategy to reduce food waste by 50 percent by 2035, compared to the amount generated in 2022. The districts must amend their existing solid waste management plans or take administrative action to achieve this goal, subject to approval by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The bill defines food waste broadly, including edible food, food scraps, processing waste, spoiled produce, and used cooking oils. Within 180 days, the DEP must publish a list of measures districts can use to reduce food waste, such as increasing food donations, recycling food waste, composting, anaerobic digestion, and public awareness campaigns. The bill also requires the DEP to adopt rules creating a tiered regulatory structure for composting facilities to encourage organic waste recycling. Notably, food waste sent to landfills that collect and deliver landfill gas for renewable energy or fuel production will be exempt from the reduction requirements. The bill aims to reduce methane emissions and promote more sustainable food waste management practices in the state.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Government Affairs

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A2090