In 2024, significant strides were made in the battle against food waste, with innovative policies, collaborative initiatives, and groundbreaking research driving progress. From municipal efforts to national strategies, this article explores the pivotal achievements and future directions in reducing food waste across various levels of governance.

Empowering Communities and Policies for a Sustainable Future

Pioneering Local Initiatives

Local governments have been instrumental in spearheading efforts to curb food waste. Through NRDC’s Food Matters network, cities received invaluable support, resources, and expert advice on effective waste reduction strategies. This initiative has fostered a community of practice where city officials can share best practices, ask questions, and collaborate on innovative solutions.The success of these local programs is evident in the impressive figures: over 20 city-based partners diverted more than 35,750 tons of food waste from landfills and incinerators, preventing nearly 62,000 metric tons of climate-warming carbon equivalent emissions. The impact of these efforts extends beyond environmental benefits; they also contribute to economic savings and enhanced food security within communities.Moreover, the development of model municipal policies, such as the Model Municipal Ordinance on Zoning for Community Composting, has set a new standard for sustainable urban planning. These policies are designed to facilitate the expansion of community composting facilities, ensuring that organic waste is managed efficiently and responsibly.

State-Level Innovations

At the state level, legislative and administrative efforts have gained momentum. California’s food date labeling reform bill, signed into law in September, represents a critical step towards standardizing food date labels. This legislation not only reduces unnecessary waste but also serves as a model for other states and potential federal reforms.Illinois also made notable progress with the passage of SB2876, which mandates large event facilities to collect organic waste for composting. This policy underscores the importance of addressing food waste at major gatherings, setting a precedent for broader statewide initiatives.Michigan’s Food Waste Roadmap, released in March, outlines ambitious goals and strategic actions to halve food waste by 2030. Developed with input from stakeholders, including NRDC, the roadmap identifies key barriers and proposes solutions such as incentives, funding, and outreach programs. The Make Food Not Waste project in Southfield, Michigan, exemplifies how local nonprofits can lead the charge in implementing effective models for waste reduction.

National Strategies and Collaborative Efforts

On the national front, the U.S. government has demonstrated a commitment to tackling food waste through comprehensive strategies and coalition-building. The National Strategy to Reduce Food Loss and Waste, jointly released by USDA, EPA, and FDA, outlines clear actions to achieve the ambitious goal of halving food waste by 2030. NRDC’s contributions to this strategy highlight the importance of policy recommendations and stakeholder engagement.The Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC), co-led by NRDC, has grown to include over 250 members across 46 states and DC. This coalition plays a crucial role in educating stakeholders about policy solutions and fostering collaboration among diverse groups. The Food Donation Improvement Act Implementation has further bolstered efforts to increase food donations and protect donors from liability, thanks to NRDC’s video series and partnerships with culinary educators.Research and consumer education remain vital components of the national strategy. MITRE and Gallup’s study on food waste provides valuable data for developing targeted interventions, while EPA’s $39 million investment in a Recycling Education and Outreach grant aims to enhance public awareness and participation in waste reduction efforts.

Global Momentum and Future Directions

Internationally, the fight against food waste has gained significant traction. At COP29, 35 countries, including the U.S., signed the Declaration on Reducing Organic Waste Methane, committing to reduce methane emissions from organic waste. This declaration builds on the Global Methane Pledge launched at COP26, underscoring the global commitment to combating climate change through waste management.Looking ahead, the focus remains on advancing practical solutions that empower families, businesses, and communities to reduce food waste. Regional and local initiatives will continue to play a pivotal role in creating replicable models for waste reduction, while state-level policies like organic waste disposal bans offer promising pathways to keep food out of landfills. At the federal level, bipartisan legislation to standardize food date labels and increased research on consumer behavior will be essential to achieving long-term sustainability goals.Everyone has a part to play in this collective effort. Strengthening partnerships and expanding the reach of the Zero Food Waste Coalition will be crucial in building a future where food waste is minimized, and resources are used wisely.