Efforts are underway in Maine to revolutionize the way food waste is managed, with a new bill aiming to reduce landfill contributions and greenhouse gas emissions. A hearing took place recently for a bipartisan initiative led by Senator Stacy Brenner (D-Cumberland), which seeks to encourage recycling and donating surplus food instead of discarding it. This measure builds on an earlier attempt that failed due to insufficient funding.

A groundbreaking study conducted in 2024 revealed startling statistics: over 360,000 tons of food are wasted annually in Maine. Despite the potential to redirect much of this food to alleviate hunger among one in eight residents, it ends up decomposing in landfills, releasing methane—a potent greenhouse gas. The proposed legislation, LD 1065, intends to impose restrictions on large-scale food waste producers such as schools, hospitals, and food manufacturers. These entities would be required to divert their waste to composting or recycling facilities if located within a specified distance.

Implementing LD 1065 could set Maine on a path toward meaningful environmental and social progress. By aligning with neighboring states like Connecticut, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire—all of which have enacted similar laws—Maine aims to halve its food waste by 2030, as outlined in its latest climate action plan. Although concerns persist about staffing needs and infrastructure development, advocates believe the benefits outweigh the challenges. With determination and collaboration, Maine can transform its approach to food waste, fostering sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint significantly.