In 2014, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) implemented a commercial food waste ban to reduce landfill use and promote composting. Initially, the ban applied to businesses generating one ton or more of food waste per week. In November 2022, the threshold was lowered to half a ton per week, expanding the mandate to mid-sized businesses. Under the rule, food scraps must be separated from regular trash and diverted to composting, anaerobic digestion, animal feed, or donation programs.

Food waste still makes up more than 25% of the state’s disposed trash—over one million tons per year—making this policy a key step toward cutting emissions and reclaiming valuable resources. This shift has prompted many businesses to work with composting partners like CERO to stay compliant and show environmental leadership.

At CERO, we help organizations across Greater Boston meet these regulations while supporting a more sustainable, local food system. Not sure how much food waste your business produces? Take our quick, free waste assessment to find out!