Minnesota’s Transition to Zero Waste

Zero Waste is a movement to dismantle the systems that perpetuate our “throw-away culture” — resource extraction, excessive production and consumption, and discarding of trash to be burned and buried in overburdened communities. A zero waste future means we are reducing waste at the source, redesigning systems to support reuse, conserving resources and promoting sustainability within our communities. Transitioning to zero waste will not happen overnight but it is possible. It will require significant sustained investments in proven solutions and engagement across our community. 

Zero Waste 2025 Legislative Priorities

Electronics Recycling (SF1690 /HF1426): Electronic waste is a growing problem – currently making up 70% of lead pollution from our landfills. This bill provides free collection of all electronics for Minnesotans and provides much needed incentives that will increase the State’s diversion rates.

Removal of the Plastic Bag Preemption: In 2017 the Minnesota legislature passed a preemption law banning local plastic bag bans. This legislation would remove that preemption and allow local communities to decide if and how they should address the proliferation of plastic bags.

Prevent State Purchasing of Single-Use Plastic: Most single-use plastic is not designed for recyclability. The state should take the lead on investing in reuse and more sustainable options by prohibiting state agencies from purchasing single-use plastic water bottles and food service ware. 

Ban Single-Use Personal Care Products in Hotels: Small format plastic personal care products are not recyclable. They are used once in a hotel and then discarded. Minnesota should follow Washington and Illinois lead in banning these products in the hospitality industry, allowing for more sustainable refillables.

Phthalates Testing (SF188 / HF44): Phthalates, a class of toxic chemicals used in plastic, are showing up in packaged food. Phthalates are hormone disruptors linked to health concerns such as reproductive problems, birth defects, obesity, diabetes and certain cancers. Legislation requires food manufacturers  to test packaged food for phthalates, report the results to the MN Dept of Ag and share the results on their  website.

Upgrade Landfills and Landfill Gas Regulation: Minnesota must update its state landfill air emissions rule and set stronger emissions regulations for existing landfills. Additionally, the agency should not miscategorize landfill gas to energy, sometimes labeled “renewable natural gas,” as a viable greenhouse gas or waste reduction strategy.  

Organics Diversion: While we need to regulate landfill gas, we simultaneously need to stop methane at the source through organics waste diversion. Minnesota needs a mandatory organic waste ban to prevent organic waste from being landfilled or incinerated.

Fighting False Solutions: As we work to build a zero waste economy, there will be voices that are pushing false solutions. These solutions might appear appealing or well-intentioned but lack the necessary depth, sustainability, or efficacy in dealing with our challenges.