In Depth

Model State Legislation: Funding Waste Diversion and On-Farm Composting via a Disposal Surcharge

Model State Legislation: Funding Waste Diversion and On-Farm Composting via a Disposal Surcharge

Sophia Jones

June 15, 2022

A per-ton surcharge on waste disposed is a funding mechanism with a proven track record of raising funds to reduce and recycle waste. This model bill serves to address the need for state investment into waste reduction and diversion programs and infrastructure by establishing major grant funding based on a nominal surcharge on waste disposal. This document is intended for use as a template for a bill that any state can adapt and introduce.  READ MORE


Recently Posted

Popular Science: The US stinks at composting. Here’s how we can change that.

Popular Science: The US stinks at composting. Here’s how we can change that.

Reggie Rucker

June 15, 2022

ILSR Composting for Community director Brenda Platt explains to Popular Science how we can make composting more ubiquitous in the United States.  READ MORE


The Highest Form of Recycling

The Highest Form of Recycling

Neil Seldman

June 9, 2022

...material reuse through for-profit and nonprofit operations is a mechanism for the redistribution of material wealth. The businesses also have a positive impact on job creation, community development and the environment. “Reuse is the highest form of recycling because finished products are revived and their productive purpose is extended,” said Dan Kna  READ MORE


Baltimore’s Zero Waste Future

Baltimore’s Zero Waste Future

Neil Seldman

May 31, 2022

ILSR has been assisting grass roots organizations in Baltimore to fend off new incinerators and shut down an existing aging and polluting garbage incinerator in Downtown Baltimore, planning for and implementing Zero Waste practices. These practices would also help the city and communities address other pressing problems in the city;  READ MORE


Busting Trust: Can You Trust the Petroleum/Plastic Industry?

Busting Trust: Can You Trust the Petroleum/Plastic Industry?

Neil Seldman

May 25, 2022

The contending approaches to Extended Producer Responsibility can be boiled down to one question: Can you trust the petroleum/plastic industry?  READ MORE


In New York and Oregon, Canning Reduces Waste and Changes Lives — Episode 150 of Building Local Power

In New York and Oregon, Canning Reduces Waste and Changes Lives — Episode 150 of Building Local Power

Jess Del Fiacco

May 5, 2022

In this episode of Building Local Power, Jess Del Fiacco and Neil Seldman are joined by several guests who are involved in the canning community. Canners, also called waste pickers or scrappers, collect recyclable materials such as cans and bottles from the streets and redeem them at recycling centers.  READ MORE