by Lisa Skumatz 

A North American Trash and Recycling Survey update is being conducted by Skumatz Economic Research Associates (SERA) for 2021. The data are used to track trends and latest methods in Solid Waste Management, conduct quantitative analyses to guide program refinements, and other studies, many of which are published in aggregate form (no name / individual data) in Resource Recycling. This year’s special topic includes a drill-down on contamination strategies.

As advocates in the industry, we are hoping you can help us with a survey and be entered for a drawing if you wish. Previous results were presented in a free webinar last fall and the results of this national study will also be presented at various state conferences.  

Please click HERE, or use the link https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NationalSW2021

In the past, the survey has typically taken 15-20 minutes.  If you need to do part, and then hold it open – or come back in, the survey allows that.  Feel free to call if you have questions or would rather complete it by phone (303-494-1178; dsouza@serainc.com). We’re hoping for responses in the next 3 weeks (roughly).  Thank you very much!

Lisa A. Skumatz, Ph.D. – Proud Chair National Recycling Coalition (NRC); Member, Recycle Colorado Board; National SWANA Policy Advisory Committee

Skumatz Economic Research Associates (SERA)
Voice: 360-261-3069
Email: skumatz@serainc.com   www.serainc.com

Many workplaces and communities are preparing for potential impacts related to the coronavirus (COVID-19). Though information about the virus is still evolving, SWANA has issued a Guidance on Coronavirus document.

Download SWANA’s Guidance on Coronavirus document

Source: https://swana.org/initiatives/guidance-on-coronavirus-(covid-19)

ECCC.China’s Prohibition ban.Dec14,2017.ENG

According to this notice, due to amendments made to the Export and Import of Hazardous Waste and Hazardous Recyclable Material Regulations (EIHWHRMR) in 2016, waste and recyclable materials intended for export are required to be redefined as hazardous if the country to which it is being sent defines it as such. According to the notice from ECCC:

Under Canadian law, such waste or material will also be considered hazardous under the EIHWHRMR and will require an export permit under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 if China is the intended destination for that shipment. However, given that China has already announced its intention to ban the import of these wastes, it is likely that Canada would not be able to obtain the required consent from China to authorize such an export. In such a situation, shipments that proceed without proper permits will be considered unlawful exports. This means that, the exporter will be required to make all necessary arrangements to return the shipment to Canada or to an alternative destination and could be prosecuted under the Canadian Environmental Protection Acts, 1999 for violation of the provisions of the Act and the EIHWHRMR.

The full notice is attached!

Don't put needles and bear spray in your recycling bin, city says

SWANA NLC Newsletter vol 9 April 2016