Local governments are involved with collecting and managing waste, permitting and regulating food service businesses, and addressing food insecurity among residents. Accordingly, food waste and surplus food generation data can help inform municipal food waste reduction efforts. The NRDC/ELI Model Ordinance on Mandatory Reporting for Large Food Waste Generators is intended to require large generators, including businesses, nonprofit organizations, and municipal governmental subunits, to measure and report on their food waste generation. The version with commentaries includes analysis, examples, and alternative approaches. For a deeper dive, check out this blog.
Also check out the accompanying resources: (1) Model Ordinance without Commentaries; (2) Background Memorandum; (3) Model Resolution; and (4) Slide Presentation.
This resource is part of a broader effort by ELI’s Center for State and Local Governance to develop adaptable model governance tools that make it easier for state and local governments in the United States to advance climate, environmental, and waste reduction solutions. You can find the full suite of model governance tools here.