Montgomery County Zero Waste Plan 3-1-23

Closing Montgomery County’s Incinerator transitioning to Zero Waste strategies to manage discarded materials sustainably. Aiming for Zero Waste Plan developed in 2019, incorporated into the 10-Year Solid Waste Management Plan (2021). Current recycling rate: 41.1%, projected to rise to 52% by 2040. Goal: Commit to Zero Waste, close incinerator, and enhance waste reduction, recycling, and composting.

Introduction to Zero Waste

Definition of Zero Waste: Conservation of resources without burning or discharges harmful to the environment.

Zero Waste Hierarchy:

  • Rethink/Redesign: Durable, repairable materials.

  • Reduce: Minimize quantity and toxicity of materials.

  • Reuse: Maximize material reuse.

  • Recycle/Compost: Keep materials in production loops.

  • Material Recovery: Maximize recovery from mixed discards.

  • Residuals Management: Stabilize before landfilling.

  • Unacceptable: Incineration and "waste-to-energy" schemes.

Steps for Closing the Incinerator

Action plan is split into two tracks:

  1. Ending Incineration: This involves identifying the incinerator's operational inefficiencies and assessing technological alternatives. The focus will be on engaging stakeholders early in the process to determine the best approaches and solutions for waste diversion. Comprehensive research will be conducted to evaluate the viability of converting waste into useful materials rather than burning. There will be public forums to discuss potential options while ensuring transparency in decision-making.

  2. Enhancing Waste Reduction: This track emphasizes educational campaigns and community involvement to increase participation in waste reduction initiatives. Programs will be developed to inform the public about reducing waste generation, including the importance of purchasing sustainable products and supporting local recycling efforts.

Timeline: Closure can possibly be accomplished within 12 months if properly managed. Timeline includes tasks like RFP for landfill alternatives and SWMP amendments, with specific milestones such as drafting legislation to support the transition by a set date.

Key Programs for Waste Reduction

  • Reuse and Repair Initiatives: Implementing community workshops focused on repairing items such as clothing, electronics, and furniture, which promotes skills sharing and minimizes waste. Partnerships with local organizations to establish repair cafes will be encouraged.

  • Universal Collection: Ensuring all residents and businesses have access to recycling, organics, and trash collection services. This will help standardize practices across different neighborhoods and increase overall participation in the programs.

  • Deconstruction and Recycling Regulations: Enforcing regulations that require construction and demolition projects to prioritize deconstruction over demolition, thus allowing for the recycling of valuable materials. Incentives for sustainable construction practices will be provided, including tax credits and grants.

  • Resource Recovery Parks: Development of designated areas where materials can be reclaimed, sorted, and sold back into the market rather than ending up in a landfill. These parks will focus on high-value materials and create a circular economy, providing local employment and training opportunities.

  • Comprehensive Organics Management Strategies: Introducing programs that promote composting on both residential and community levels, including incentives for adopting backyard composting practices. Education campaigns will inform residents about the benefits of composting in reducing organic waste.

Economic Benefits

Transitioning to Zero Waste is expected to yield various economic benefits for Montgomery County:

  • Job Creation: The initiatives under the Zero Waste Plan are projected to create numerous job opportunities in waste management, recycling, and sustainable practices. Jobs may include positions in material recovery, logistics, education, and repair services.

  • Cost Savings: By reducing reliance on incineration and landfilling, the county can decrease waste disposal costs significantly. This translates to lower financial burdens on taxpayers and municipal budgets.

  • Local Business Growth: The shift toward sustainable practices may foster new business models focused on reclaimed materials, repair services, and upcycling. These new ventures can further stimulate local economies by keeping funds within the community.

  • Investment in Green Infrastructure: Development of Resource Recovery Parks and enhanced recycling programs could attract state and federal funding, as well as private investments aimed at creating a sustainable economy.

  • Increased Property Values: Areas that prioritize sustainability may see rising property values due to the enhanced quality of life and better environmental health conditions, making the region more attractive to homebuyers and businesses alike.

Community Involvement

Emphasis on community participation in planning and implementing Zero Waste programs. Goals to address equity and social justice in waste management.

Economic and Environmental Impact

Transitioning to Zero Waste aims to turn net negative climate impacts into positive outcomes. Expected employment growth and new business creation in the waste sector contributing to economic development.

Conclusion

Montgomery County poised to lead in the Zero Waste movement through community engagement, strategic planning, and commitment to sustainability.