In this cutting-edge episode of Harvesting Wisdom, host Mike McMahon is joined by Riley Casey of Van Dyk Recycling Systems, a leader in innovative waste processing and sustainable infrastructure. Together, they dive into the evolving world of food waste recycling—and how advanced depackaging and sorting technologies are transforming trash into powerful climate tools.Riley explains how Van Dyk’s systems handle everything from packaged expired goods to industrial food waste, using custom-engineered equipment to extract organics for compost, animal feed, or anaerobic digestion. Their machines remove plastics, sort aluminum, and even create clean, usable slurry—ensuring that what was once destined for landfill can now fuel clean energy systems or return to the soil as a regenerative resource.The conversation also explores the growing demand for modular, scalable food waste solutions in North America, inspired by proven models in Europe. Mike and Riley discuss the economics of automation, the importance of minimizing labor costs, and how businesses and municipalities can reduce landfill dependency while creating real environmental and economic value.From reducing methane emissions to navigating permitting challenges, this episode highlights how tech-driven circular systems can reshape how communities manage waste—and build resilience for the future.