Tracing Materials End Markets
Track
Markets
Session Description
The United States has relied on international markets to support its recycling claims for paper and plastic waste. However, these recycling systems have remained opaque for decades, and few people know exactly what happens to these materials after they have been baled. China's push to restrict these materials have called into question the legitimacy and sustainability of these end markets. Brokers have an understandable commercial interest in not disclosing their buyers, and jurisdictions and purchasers of products have a right to know if the paper and plastic they discard into the blue bin are truly being recycled.
This session will provide strategies to solve the traceability paradox. These strategies will give jurisdictions and MRFs the tools needed to know where these exports are going. Through these tools MRFs, customers, jurisdictions, and brokers can make informed decisions about whether or not to include products in recycling programs.
Speakers
Edgar Associates, Edgar and Associates
Title
Resource Economist
Speaker Biography
Grant Readle is an economist who has worked for Edgar & Associates for over 8 years and specializes in solid waste management, greenhouse gases, investigating greenwashing claims, and materials forecasting. Mr. Readle holds a Master of Science degree in Agriculture and Resource Economics from University of California, Davis. His data-driven approach to modelling uses well documented, peer-reviewed, and government endorsed methodologies to approach complex waste diversion issues.
Abstract Title
Tracing Recycling End Markets for Paper and Plastic
Speaker Abstract
The United States has relied on international markets to support its recycling claims for paper and plastic waste. However, these recycling systems have remained opaque for decades, and few people know exactly what happens to these materials after they have been baled. China's push to restrict these materials have called into question the legitimacy and sustainability of these end markets. Many countries that are the now new destination for these materials face profound and alarming environmental justice issues that could be exacerbated by these waste imports. Brokers have an understandable commercial interest in not disclosing their buyers, and jurisdictions and purchasers of products have a right to know if the paper and plastic they discard into the blue bin are truly being recycled.
This session will provide strategies to solve the traceability paradox. These strategies will give jurisdictions and MRFs the tools needed to know where these exports are going. Through these tools MRFs, customers, jurisdictions, and brokers can make informed decisions about whether to include products in recycling programs.