In a pivotal meeting held on May 21, 2024, the Summit County Council of Governments gathered to discuss an ambitious initiative aimed at tackling food waste in the region. The presentation, led by Andy Hecht from the Park City Community Foundation and Tim Loveday, outlined the proposed "Zero Food Waste Compact," a collaborative effort designed to engage local governments, businesses, nonprofits, and residents in a unified goal of eliminating food waste from landfills.

Hecht emphasized that the compact is not a financial burden but rather a cost-saving measure for the county. By diverting food waste from landfills, the initiative could potentially save Summit County an impressive $1.47 million annually. This figure, derived from an engineering audit of the local landfill, highlights the significant impact that reducing food waste could have on extending the landfill's lifespan and minimizing costs associated with waste management.

The compact aims to foster a culture of sustainability through composting, which Hecht described as a "win-win" for both the environment and the economy. Composting not only reduces landfill waste but also enhances soil health and mitigates harmful methane emissions. The initiative is set to launch publicly on June 4, with over 20 organizations already committed to the cause, including local schools and businesses.

The meeting also addressed the practical aspects of the food waste program, including a new curbside collection service that incentivizes residents to participate by covering initial costs. The program is currently opt-in, with hopes of expanding to a more comprehensive system in the future. Hecht and Loveday encouraged council members to advocate for the compact within their communities, emphasizing the importance of collective action in achieving the zero food waste goal.

As the discussion unfolded, council members raised questions about the logistics of the program and its potential impact on existing waste management practices. Concerns about the current recycling program's effectiveness were voiced, with some members expressing a desire for more robust diversion strategies to enhance sustainability efforts.

In conclusion, the Zero Food Waste Compact represents a significant step toward a more sustainable future for Summit County. By uniting various stakeholders around a common goal, the initiative seeks to transform food waste from a burden into a valuable resource, paving the way for a healthier environment and a more resilient community. The council's support for this compact could mark a defining moment in the region's commitment to sustainability and responsible waste management.