ORCID

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5188-0149

Date of Award

Summer 2025

Language

English

Embargo Period

8-15-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

College/School/Department

Department of Environmental Health Sciences

Program

Environmental Health Sciences

First Advisor

Beth J. Feingold

Committee Members

Xiaobo Xue Romeiko, Buu Tran, Roni Neff, Luis Luna-Reyes, Beth J. Feingold

Keywords

food recovery, food policy, food security, systems modeling, resilience

Subject Categories

Environmental Public Health | Other Public Health | Sustainability | Systems Science

Abstract

This dissertation investigates how food donation policies in New York State influence the recovery, redistribution, and waste of surplus fresh produce, with a focus on fruits and vegetables. Using an interdisciplinary, systems-based approach that integrates system dynamics modeling with qualitative, community-engaged research, the study analyzes the effectiveness and unintended consequences of three major policies: Nourish New York, the Farm to Food Bank tax credit, and the Food Donation and Food Scraps Recycling Law.

Chapter 2 uses simulation modeling to examine how the tax credit and waste ban affect produce recovery and redistribution. Results show that while both policies can boost donations, they may also increase waste at food assistance organizations if food quality is low or organizational capacity is insufficient. Outcomes improve substantially when paired with investments in capacity.

Chapter 3 introduces a shock scenario and environmental footprint modeling to assess Nourish NY and the waste ban under crisis conditions. Findings highlight that although these policies can enhance food availability and reduce environmental impacts, their success hinges on strong coordination and diversion of waste from landfills.

Chapter 4 presents interview-based insights from food rescue organizations implementing Nourish NY. Regional networks and informal coordination are among the factors that have buffered policy implementation gaps at nonprofits. A feedback diagram illustrates how collaborative capacity is central for policies to contribute to food systems resilience.

Overall, the study emphasizes the need for shock-responsive, equitable, and environmentally sound food rescue systems—and the critical role of implementation context in shaping policy outcomes.

License

This work is licensed under the University at Albany Standard Author Agreement.

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