The Park City Community Foundation's Zero Food Waste program aims to divert all food waste from landfills by 2030. The initiative provides residents with special bins for compostable items, which are then transformed into natural gas or compost.
The Park City Community Foundation (PCCF) is spearheading an initiative to significantly reduce food waste sent to the Summit County landfill. In June 2024, the foundation launched its Zero Food Waste program, aiming to divert all food waste generated in Park City by the year 2030. The program addresses a pressing environmental concern: food waste in landfills.
Andy Hecht, the climate fund manager at the Park City Community Foundation, explained that when food decomposes in landfills, it doesn't turn into fertile soil. Instead, it rots for years, releasing methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change and poses a threat to the environment. Moreover, food waste occupies valuable landfill space. To combat this issue, the Zero Food Waste program provides Park City residents with special bins through Momentum Recycling to dispose of compostable items. These bins are then collected and transported to a digester, where the organic waste is transformed into natural gas or compost. Hecht expressed enthusiasm about the strong community response, noting that approximately 800 bins have been distributed since June. This initial success translates to significant environmental and financial benefits. Tim Loveday, the superintendent of solid waste for Summit County, estimated that the program has already saved the landfill $100,000 in its early stages. The foundation projects that the community's efforts have diverted 18.1 tons of methane emissions so far.If the goal of zero food waste by 2030 is achieved, the impact will be even more profound. Loveday emphasized that diverting food waste would double the lifespan of the landfill, resulting in substantial cost savings for taxpayers. As recognition of their dedication to reducing waste, the Park City Community Foundation's Zero Food Waste program was awarded the Smith’s Zero Waste Hero award for January. Hecht hopes that this initiative will inspire other communities across the state to adopt similar programs.
FOOD WASTE LANDFILL COMPOST CLIMATE CHANGE ZERO WASTE
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Denver Acquires Park Hill Golf Course to Create New City ParkDenver Mayor Michael Johnston announced the city's acquisition of the Park Hill Golf Course, marking the largest private land acquisition in Denver's history. The land, previously slated for development, will be transformed into a new city park, offering a wide range of recreational opportunities for residents.
Read more »
Denver Airport's Zero Waste Valet Program Diverts Nearly 70 Tons of Waste in Six MonthsDenver International Airport (DIA) has launched a successful pilot program called Zero Waste Valet, diverting nearly 70 tons of waste from landfills in just six months. The program, which focuses on improving waste diversion rates through a dedicated collection service, aims to minimize the environmental impact of airport operations.
Read more »
Freezing Leftovers Can Reduce Food Waste, Study FindsA recent study suggests that freezing extra holiday treats and leftovers can significantly reduce food waste in households.
Read more »
State Policies Fail to Curb Food Waste, Study FindsA new study reveals that current state policies are insufficient to meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's goals for reducing food waste. The study highlights the need for more comprehensive strategies that prioritize prevention and rescue measures over recycling.
Read more »
The problem with food waste: Study says US lagging on goalsThe U.S. is falling short of its goal to halve its food waste before 2030.
Read more »
The U.S. Pledged to Halve Food Waste—We’re Nowhere CloseAmericans waste more than 300 pounds of food per person per year, study says.
Read more »