Solid Waste Management discussion addresses food insecurity in Massachusetts

The Organics Subcommittee Meeting held by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) on May 29, 2025, focused on the intersection of solid waste management and food insecurity. The meeting aimed to address how the state's solid waste infrastructure can be improved to better utilize materials that are currently discarded.

A key discussion point was the need to enhance the management of organic waste, which includes food scraps. The subcommittee emphasized the dual challenge of managing waste effectively while also tackling food insecurity, a pressing issue in both Massachusetts and across the United States. Participants highlighted the importance of finding solutions that not only reduce waste but also contribute to alleviating hunger.

The meeting underscored the necessity for collaboration among various stakeholders to develop strategies that can address these interconnected problems. By improving waste management practices, the subcommittee aims to create a more sustainable system that benefits both the environment and the community.

As the meeting concluded, members expressed a commitment to exploring innovative approaches that could lead to better resource utilization and support for those facing food insecurity. The discussions set the stage for future initiatives aimed at enhancing Massachusetts' solid waste management capabilities while addressing critical social issues.