Call For Abstracts

Reuse is next down from prevent and reduce on the waste hierarchy. Before a product or package enters a recycling system, strategies for reuse should be attempted. It was not too long ago in human history that refillable container systems were widely used. What can we learn from current research to build successful reuse systems?  

Examples include refillables, glass, solar panels 

Market development remains a crucial component to the success of recycling systems in states. Without an end market, how can we expect to drive demand for recyclable commodities? We will explore successful initiatives in states that have led to the development and expansion of recycling markets, as well as explore fruitful efforts that have led to strong collaboration and engagement with economic development agencies. 

This session will examine lessons learned from states with established Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs for products, such as batteries, tires, electronics, mattresses, and paint. Actual results like costs and recycling percentages will be examined to identify opportunities for growth and to highlight successes and areas for improvement. Insights for navigating compliance across states will be discussed.  

Building a more robust recycling supply chain means creating consistent and reliable demand for recycled material. How important is purchasing products with post-consumer resin to organizations? This session will dive into organizations’ approaches to green procurement and explore the inherent links between green procurement, life cycle analysis, and certification  

A key criterion to be able to recycle is accessibility. Today, there are still many who do not have access to recycling. This session will highlight strategies for overcoming the regulatory and infrastructure obstacles we see in multi-family housing, rural areas, and schools to make recycling available and improve recycling rates.  

There are many components to achieve consumer recycling engagement, the most foundational being that the product or package is recyclable in the first place. However, as evidence shows, just because a material is recyclable does not mean it will be recycled. Is the consumer aware of its recyclability? And if so, what other factors play into whether they act to recycle it? This session will illuminate the interconnectedness between consumer behavior, education, and technology. Topics to be explored include packaging design, labeling, and behavior change. 

Food waste continues to be a huge environmental and social issue in the U.S. Loss occurs at all levels of the supply chain: manufacturers, retailers, food service areas, but mostly in homes. This session will shine a light on the roles each process can play in diverting food waste from landfill, incineration, or sewage. We will explore the tradeoffs of each system and the considerations for state and municipal governments when determining feasibility of implementation and practical use.