About the Bills
According to the U.S. EPA, landfills are the third-largest source of methane emissions from human activities. Methane is 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide over a 20-year period. Food scraps make up 24% of landfill waste and generate 58% of methane emissions. These bills will:
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Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by diverting food scraps from landfills
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Increase food recovery for human consumption
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Provide data on the benefits of compost and digestate use on agricultural land
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Phase in requirements to provide time for infrastructure to develop
Compost and Digestate Market Development Bill
(SB1397)
Key Features
Grant Program: Provides funding for private, public, and non-profit-owned agricultural land to offset the cost of purchasing, transporting, and applying finished compost and/or digestate, and appropriates $2 million annually for three years (2026-2028) to support market expansion
Comprehensive Research: Studies the environmental and agricultural benefits of compost and digestate, including soil health, carbon sequestration, and reduced reliance on inorganic fertilizers
Illinois General Assembly Website
Fact Sheet
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Food Recovery and Diversion Bill
(HB1707/SB1398)
Key Features
Establishes food scrap hierarchy: Prioritizes the order of managing food scraps
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Waste prevention and reduction
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Donation for human consumption
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Use in animal feed
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Composting and anaerobic digestion​
Gradual Implementation: Introduces food scrap separation requirements starting with the largest generators in 2028, eventually covering most generators by 2034
Food scrap Management Infrastructure: Requires compliance for entities within 20 miles of compost facilities or anaerobic digesters, expanding to 25 miles in 2035
Illinois General Assembly Website
Fact Sheet
Overview and Benefits
