What is one consequence of food waste in landfills?

One significant consequence of food waste in landfills is the production of methane gas. When organic matter, such as food waste, decomposes anaerobically (in the absence of oxygen) in landfill conditions, it generates methane. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, contributing to climate change and environmental issues. This gas has a much higher global warming potential than carbon dioxide over a shorter timeframe, making its production from landfill waste particularly problematic.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of food waste in landfills. For instance, food waste does not contribute to increased soil fertility when it is buried in landfills since it is not being broken down in a manner that could benefit soil health. Similarly, the idea of higher water retention or reduction of ecosystem degradation also does not apply; instead, food waste can lead to negative impacts on local ecosystems and contribute to soil and water pollution due to leachate and other byproducts of decomposition.