Summary:

- The article discusses new laws in Massachusetts that aim to reduce food waste by banning large businesses and institutions from throwing away edible food. The law requires these entities to donate or compost any food they would have previously discarded.

- The goal of the law is to divert food waste from landfills, which are a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Food waste in landfills releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

- Experts believe the law will have a significant environmental impact, as food waste accounts for about 24% of the waste stream in Massachusetts. Reducing this waste can help the state meet its climate goals.