One of the ways to combat waste management issues in America is to focus on food waste. Every day, American families throw out more food than you can possibly imagine. Restaurants, as well, dispose of leftovers, and even farmers throw out food that is imperfect or not suited for their use.

In the US, about 30-40% of all food isn’t eaten. Approximately 95% of that food ends up in landfills.

Many states and many companies are trying to work with states to solve these problems. Some states like California, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Vermont have already restricted how much food and other organic waste can be thrown away. Maryland, New Jersey and New York are currently considering similar laws. Places like the West Lake Landfill are also always looking for new and creative ways to work.

There are other very creative ways that states are offering incentives. Some states are offering tax breaks to farmers and small businesses that donate food rather than throw it away. Some large farming operations and caterers have partnered with homeless shelters to enable the shelters to receive the food that isn’t used at the end of a harvest or during a celebration party.

Similarly, some restaurants will offer a discounted rate to customers when they put out food that is less physically appealing or that has passed the “sell by” date. Others have even created apps that will connect restaurants and stores with people who are interested in the surplus.

Certainly, there is going to be waste, but there are creative ways to help society to limit that waste and to cut down on the waste as much as possible.