Waste management news covering recycling, landfills, circular economy, hazardous waste, and environmental services companies.
A new study reveals that plastic waste shipped to lower- and middle-income countries is often openly burned, causing sharp increases in toxic air pollution linked to health problems. Between 40% and 65% of municipal solid waste is burned in these regions, affecting 2 billion people without waste collection.
This commentary argues that hyenas in Mekelle, Ethiopia, provide significant waste-clearing services by processing thousands of tonnes of organic waste annually, potentially reducing disease risk and methane emissions. It presents evidence from a study and expert opinions, but cautions that wildlife cannot replace proper waste management systems.
The author, representing the plastics industry, argues that the EPA's proposed rule clarifying advanced recycling as manufacturing rather than disposal will unlock innovation and boost domestic recycling. The piece contends that updating Clean Air Act rules to reflect modern pyrolysis technology is essential for expanding recycling capacity and creating jobs.
This article explains the new bin collection system in Suffolk, England, detailing which waste goes into each bin and caddy. It notes that the changes follow a UK government initiative to standardize recycling, with Suffolk councils implementing the system from June 1, 2026.
This commentary reports on delays in mandatory food waste recycling collections across councils in the North East and Cumbria, UK. It argues that while the government set a March deadline, most councils have not met it due to logistical challenges, and highlights the environmental and economic benefits of food waste recycling.