Food waste surpasses 80 million pounds monthly and impacts climate and economy

The New Jersey Assembly Environment, Natural Resources, and Solid Waste Committee convened on April 23, 2025, to address the pressing issue of food waste and its significant environmental and economic impacts. The meeting highlighted the staggering statistics surrounding food waste in the United States, where an estimated 30 to 40% of food produced is discarded, equating to approximately 80 billion pounds annually.

Committee members discussed the multifaceted consequences of food waste, emphasizing that it is not merely a matter of discarded leftovers. The resources expended in food production—including time, energy, labor, and water—are also wasted when food is thrown away. Furthermore, food waste contributes to methane emissions in landfills, a greenhouse gas that is more potent than carbon dioxide, exacerbating climate change.

The economic implications of food waste were also a focal point of the discussion. It was noted that nearly half of surplus food originates from uneaten groceries and leftovers in restaurants, representing a potential loss of over $2.26 trillion. This waste not only affects the economy but also has social ramifications, as approximately 10% of Americans face food insecurity, with millions of households lacking reliable access to sufficient food.

The committee underscored the need for actionable solutions to reduce food waste, which could simultaneously alleviate hunger and support local economies. The meeting concluded with a call to action for both policymakers and the public to address this critical issue, highlighting the importance of reducing food waste for future generations.