Publication Date

Fall 2025

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Environmental Studies

Advisor

Rachel O'Malley; Dustin Mulvaney; Lindsey Rowell

Abstract

Greenhouse gas emissions from food waste (FW) and energy generation are two major hurdles to the climate crisis. Previous research shows that waste-to-energy systems may provide a solution to both these challenges, particularly at university campuses, due to their high FW generation and high energy needs. Despite this, few academic institutions in California, US, have adopted waste-to-energy systems, and campus-specific challenges and opportunities associated with these systems remain underexplored. For this study, I use an Environmental, Economic, and Social (EES) lens to document the current landscape of FW management and implementation of food waste-to-bioenergy at campuses in each of the three California university systems: the public University of California and California State University systems, and private universities. Combining data from university reports and websites with in-depth conversations with key informants, the study highlights that while a lack of financial support creates barriers, strong leadership and student-faculty engagement enable progress. A greenhouse gas emissions modeling case study at San Jose State University further demonstrates that on-site waste-to-energy systems can yield measurable GHG reductions. The findings suggest that to advance FW management and reach their climate goals, campuses should target financial support, cultivate strong institutional leadership, and foster collaboration.

Download

Share

COinS