Food waste in landfills contributes to significant greenhouse gas emissions, primarily in the form of methane. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that has a much higher global warming potential than carbon dioxide (CO2) over a short time frame. When organic materials like food waste decompose in landfills without access to oxygen, they produce methane.

Food waste in landfills is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, primarily in the form of methane (CH4). Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that has a much higher global warming potential than carbon dioxide (CO2) over a short time frame. When organic materials, such as food waste, decompose in landfills without access to oxygen (anaerobic decomposition), they produce methane. Here’s how the process works:

             • Deposition of Food Waste: When food scraps, organic matter, and other biodegradable materials are disposed of in landfills, they are typically buried under layers of non-biodegradable waste.

             • Anaerobic Decomposition: In landfills, the lack of oxygen (anaerobic conditions) causes organic materials to decompose in a way that produces methane as a by-product. This process is different from composting, which occurs under aerobic conditions and produces carbon dioxide instead of methane.

            • Methane Emissions: Methane is released into the atmosphere because of this anaerobic decomposition. Methane has a much higher global warming potential than CO2, particularly over a shorter time frame. Over a 20-year period, methane is estimated to be about 84-87 times more effective at trapping heat in the atmosphere than CO2.

            • Contribution to Global Warming: The release of methane from landfills significantly contributes to global warming and climate change. It is a potent driver of short-term climate impacts. However, methane eventually breaks down in the atmosphere, converting into carbon dioxide and water vapor over a longer time frame, which reduces its long-term impact.

           • Efforts to reduce food waste and manage it through alternative means, such as composting or anaerobic digestion, can help mitigate methane emissions from landfills. Additionally, capturing and utilising the methane generated in landfills for energy production can be an effective way to reduce emissions and harness a valuable energy source. Reducing food waste at the source, improving waste management practices, and promoting composting and recycling are essential steps in addressing this environmental issue.