North Olmsted, Ohio... According to the EPA, food is the largest single source of waste in U.S. landfills and incinerators, making up more than 20 percent of the country's garbage. Americans are dumping more food waste into landfills than ever before, and the latest figures are staggering: we're putting 35 million tons into the ground each year -- that's 50 percent more waste than we generated a quarter of a century ago.

Discarded food items don't simply make their way back into the soil. Instead, they produce methane, a strong greenhouse gas and one of the biggest potential contributors to global warming.

Instead of dumping more waste into landfills, garbage disposals -- like the new, complete line from Moen -- send food waste to septic systems or wastewater treatment facilities. Often, these facilities have the ability to convert waste into biogas, a methane-rich byproduct that can be used for energy generation -- meaning our waste can ultimately be used in a manner that positively affects the environment.

"The simple step of transferring and disposing of food waste at the sink, versus into a trash can, has the potential to produce huge environmental benefits," said Cassy Osborne, senior marketing manager, Moen. "Installing and utilizing a garbage disposal in your home can significantly reduce the amount of waste your family throws out on a regular basis. A powerful, dependable Moen disposal will ensure years of reliable performance, simplify meal prep and clean-up, all while sending less waste to the landfill."

Moen garbage disposals quickly transform food scraps into finely ground particles, thanks to their unique VORTEX™ permanent magnet motor technology. The VORTEX motor also provides fast revolutions per minute (RPM), which can help to reduce jamming.

Because Moen products are known for their reliability and are backed by the company's Limited Warranty and professional in-home service, you won't have to worry about replacing your unit, and ultimately putting more waste into a landfill.

"For years, consumers have trusted Moen to be a leader in high-quality, eco-performance products," said Timothy McDonough, Vice President, Global Brand Marketing, Moen. "Producing our own line of garbage disposals was the next logical step in helping consumers realize significant environmental benefits, while offering a complete package above the sink and below -- from faucets, sinks and filtration to accessories and now disposals."

There are seven models within the Moen garbage disposal portfolio designed to meet the needs of any kitchen. They are available at The Home Depot and wholesale showrooms nationwide.

For more information about the complete line of garbage disposals from Moen, visit moen.com or call 1-800-BUY-MOEN (1-800-289-6636).