The New Jersey Assembly Environment, Natural Resources, and Solid Waste Committee convened on April 23, 2025, to discuss critical advancements in the state's recycling and waste management efforts. A key focus of the meeting was the testimony from Gary Sondemeyer, a representative of the Association of New Jersey Recyclers (ANJAR), who emphasized the urgent need for an integrated solid waste management plan in New Jersey.

Sondemeyer, who has extensive experience in the field, highlighted the significant issue of food waste, which constitutes 20 to 25 percent of municipal garbage despite years of mandatory recycling. He pointed out that the state has struggled with food waste recycling due to a lack of facilities capable of processing this type of waste. This concern aligns with the goals set forth in the Food Waste Recycling Act, which was enacted in 2020 and became effective in 2021.

A notable development discussed during the meeting was the construction of the largest anaerobic digestion facility for food waste in the United States, located in Linden, New Jersey. This facility, being developed by South Jersey Industries and RNG Energy, will have the capacity to process 1,540 tons of food waste per day, significantly surpassing the existing capacity of approximately 1,000 tons per day. Sondemeyer invited committee members to visit the site, underscoring the importance of such infrastructure in enhancing the state's waste management capabilities.

The meeting also touched on existing commercial facilities, such as the Trenton Biogas and the Apple Core facility in Elizabeth, which are utilizing innovative methods to manage food waste and generate renewable energy. These initiatives reflect a growing commitment to improving recycling practices and addressing the challenges posed by food waste in New Jersey.

As the state continues to develop its waste management strategies, the discussions from this meeting highlight both the challenges and advancements in recycling efforts, particularly in the realm of food waste. The establishment of new facilities and the ongoing advocacy for better waste management practices signal a proactive approach to environmental sustainability in New Jersey.