Sources & Methodology

This dashboard uses publicly available data and industry-standard estimation methods. All calculations follow EPA WARM Model methodology. Some figures are estimates pending verification with local sources.

Data Transparency Note

This dashboard was designed as a proof of concept. Not all data displayed is verified yet. Official data has been requested from the Town of New Canaan and local schools. The dashboard will be updated as information is received.

For questions about data sources or to provide more accurate local data, please contact tjherman16@gmail.com

Federal & State Data

EPA Municipal Solid Waste Statistics

National waste generation data and food waste percentages

EPA Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator

CO₂e emissions calculations and equivalencies

EPA WARM Model (Waste Reduction Model)

Methodology for comparing waste management options

CT DEEP Solid Waste Home

Connecticut state waste statistics and regulations

CT Solid Waste Disposal & Recycling Data

State-level disposal and diversion data reports

Connecticut Organic Waste Regulations

State requirements for businesses generating 26+ tons annually

U.S. Census Bureau - New Canaan Data

Population and demographic statistics

Research & Studies

Science Journal: State Food Waste Bans Study (Oct 2024)

Analysis of state food waste ban effectiveness, showing Massachusetts as only successful state

NPR: State Bans on Commercial Food Waste

Coverage of the Science study on food waste ban effectiveness

UNEP Food Waste Index Report

Global food waste statistics and environmental impact

IPCC Climate Reports (AR6)

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change data on organic waste emissions

ReFED Policy Finder - Connecticut

Comprehensive CT food waste policy database

Local & Regional

Connecticut Resources Recovery Authority (CRRA)

Tipping fee rates and waste management data

Town of New Canaan

Local government and Public Works contact: (203) 594-3080

New Canaan Public Works

Department responsible for waste management

New Canaan Public Schools

School system data and cafeteria waste estimates

New Canaan Chamber of Commerce

Business directory for restaurant and retail waste estimates

Success Stories & Case Studies

Stamford Composting Program (2021)

Stamford Advocate coverage of successful municipal composting expansion

Stamford EPA Grant for Composting (2023)

Mill River Park composting program receives federal support

Food Rescue US - Fairfield County

46+ million pounds diverted, 38+ million meals provided

Massachusetts DEP

Blueprint for successful waste ban implementation

Technology & Solutions

Chomp Inc. (Anaerobic Digester Manufacturer)

Technical specifications and cost estimates for biodigester systems

EPA Composting At Home Guide

Guidelines for acceptable composting materials

Blue Earth Compost

Commercial composting services in Connecticut

Curbside Compost

Residential composting pickup services

Funding & Incentives

Inflation Reduction Act - Section 48 Investment Tax Credit

30-50% federal tax credits for renewable energy projects including biodigesters

IRA Energy-Related Tax Provisions (PDF)

Detailed breakdown of IRA tax credits and incentives

DOE Communities LEAP Program

Grants up to $80,000 for community energy solutions

Department of Energy Funding Opportunities

Various programs supporting community clean energy projects

Center for EcoTechnology - CT Business Assistance

Free business guidance for food waste programs (CT DEEP partner)

Organizations

Planet New Canaan

Community sustainability organization behind this initiative

USDA Food Waste Resources

Federal food waste statistics and reduction strategies

RTS - Food Waste in America

Comprehensive guide to U.S. food waste statistics

Calculation Methodologies

Total Food Waste: Based on EPA data showing food waste accounts for 24% of municipal solid waste. Calculation: 10,000 tons total MSW × 24% = 2,400 tons

Tipping Fees: Current rate of $112/ton from CRRA. Annual cost: 2,400 tons × $112 = $268,800

CO₂e Emissions: EPA estimates food waste in landfills generates approximately 2 tons CO₂e per ton through methane emissions. Total: 2,400 tons × 2 = 4,800 tons CO₂e

Per Capita Waste: U.S. average of 0.77 tons/person/year from EPA 2018 data

School Waste Estimates: Based on typical school cafeteria generation rates of 18-20 tons/school/year for elementary schools, adjusted for student population

Equipment Costs: Composting equipment (~$50,000) based on Stamford CT program. Biodigester costs ($200K-$1M) from Chomp Inc. preliminary proposal (January 2024)