TRENTON, NJ – Governor Phil Murphy has proposed amendments to the recently introduced school food waste composting program bill in New Jersey. While acknowledging the bill’s intent to tackle food waste in schools, Murphy raised concerns about compliance with federal environmental laws.
The Governor recognized that food waste constitutes over 20% of waste in New Jersey’s landfills and incinerators, highlighting its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. He noted the importance of composting in reducing these emissions and its educational value in schools, particularly in STEM subjects and responsible waste management.
However, Murphy expressed apprehension that the bill’s current exemptions from state laws could lead to non-compliance with federal air and water pollution control laws. To address these concerns, he proposed modifications ensuring that schools engaging in composting would not require a solid waste permit from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Nonetheless, schools would still need to adhere to the New Jersey Air Pollution Control Act (APCA) and Water Pollution Control Act (WPCA) regulations, without the burden of permitting fees.
Additionally, to ensure environmentally sound composting practices, the Governor recommended that the DEP develop regulations or guidance documents for school composting. He also suggested schools file a simple notice form with the DEP, enabling the collection of data to inform future food waste reduction efforts. These changes aim to maintain environmental safety while promoting sustainable waste management practices in schools.