PENOBSCOT BAY PILOT • February 15, 2026
MaineHealth Pen Bay and Waldo Hospitals are making meaningful operational changes to reduce waste, lower greenhouse gas emissions and protect the environment in the communities they serve. In addition to eight energy conservation projects completed over the last 12 months, ranging from air handler efficiency upgrades to weatherization and building envelope improvements, the hospitals continue to expand sustainability efforts, including zero-sort recycling and composting, with plans underway for a community garden this spring. A key focus area in recent years has been food waste reduction. In 2024, the Food and Nutrition Services teams at both hospitals launched a composting initiative to divert food scraps from landfills. Composting reduces methane emissions while transforming food waste into nutrient-rich soil. Through a partnership with ScrapDogs Community Compost, a local composting service, Pen Bay and Waldo Hospitals composted more than 15,000 pounds of food waste in 2024.