food waste

Washtenaw County is increasing efforts toward a more effective way of dealing with waste. 2023 amendments to the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act requires all Michigan counties to develop a new “Materials Management Plan” that emphasizes recycling, organics diversion, and sustainable materials management rather than focusing solely on landfill capacity. Its led to some forward thinking and action plans here in Washtenaw County. WEMU's David Fair discussed those programs with Theo Eggermont, Public Works Director for the Washtenaw County Water Resources Commissioner’s Office.

Halloween may be behind us, but that doesn’t mean you have to throw away your jack-o’-lanterns. Washtenaw County is collaborating with local farms to give pumpkins a new purpose. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the details.

Anaerobic biodigesters — biogas plants that turn animal and food waste into renewable energy — are raising a stink in Freedom Township. WEMU’s Caroline MacGregor reports.

Washtenaw County is launching a pilot food scrap drop-off program in hopes of diverting more of the waste out of landfills. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

Washtenaw County is joining a pilot program to help move food waste out of landfills and be used for composting. WEMU's Kevin Meerschaert reports.

Ann Arbor has launched a new program to help people reduce the amount of food they waste at home. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert has this report.

National Stop Food Waste Day is today, and Ann Arbor’s Food Gatherers shares their efforts in reducing the amount of food disposed of locally. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has more.

As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, food insecurity is on high in Washtenaw County. Eileen Spring is president and CEO of Food Gatherers, and she says, since the pandemic, the demand for food assistance has skyrocketed and continues to go up. What is being done to address this glaring community need? Part of the solution also provides some rather amazing environmental benefits. Eileen joined WEMU's David Fair for a discussion on dealing with food insecurity and how food rescue also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

As part of A2Zero Week, the City of Ann Arbor has launched a new education program to encourage residents and businesses to reduce the amount of food that goes to waste. We have more from WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert.

‘Tis the season! Family, friends, gift-giving and good food. It also means an inordinate amount of waste is generated. There are ways to enjoy all of our favorite holiday traditions while minimizing our environmental impact. WEMU's David Fair gained some insight on best practices from zerowaste.org co-founder, Lydia McMullen-Laird.