Connecticut's Environment Committee convened on January 22, 2025, to address the pressing challenges surrounding municipal solid waste management, highlighting a significant capacity crisis that threatens the state's waste disposal infrastructure.

Commissioner Dykes and other officials underscored the urgency of the situation, noting that the number of operational landfills has dwindled to approximately 6,000 nationwide, with many nearing capacity. The closure of the Ontario Canyon Landfill in New York, which will eliminate 700,000 tons of disposal capacity, exemplifies the regional crisis. Connecticut currently exports 2.5 million tons of waste annually, and rising disposal costs—now averaging $120 per ton—pose a financial burden on municipalities and businesses alike.

To combat these challenges, the committee discussed two primary strategies: food scrap collection and unit-based pricing (UBP). Food scrap diversion is seen as a critical opportunity, as food waste accounts for a significant portion of landfill methane emissions. Implementing co-collection methods, where food scraps are collected alongside regular trash, could reduce costs and improve efficiency. However, achieving high participation rates remains a challenge, necessitating public education and incentives.

Unit-based pricing, which charges residents based on the amount of trash they generate, has proven effective in reducing waste. Successful examples from towns like Stonington demonstrate that combining UBP with food scrap programs can lead to substantial reductions in waste generation. The committee emphasized the need for broader adoption of these strategies across Connecticut, particularly at transfer stations, which could facilitate food scrap collection without the need for extensive new infrastructure.

As the state grapples with the impending waste crisis, the committee's focus on innovative waste management solutions aims to not only alleviate current pressures but also pave the way for a more sustainable future. The discussions signal a proactive approach to waste reduction, with the potential for significant environmental and economic benefits for Connecticut residents.