Developing and Implementing an 

Airport Recycling Program 

 

INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................ 1
 

SECTION 1. ESTABLISHING A SUCCESSFUL RECYCLING PROGRAM ... 2
 

Step 1: Obtain Commitment from Upper Management...................................................................................2
 

Step 2: Organize a Green Team ............................................................................................................................4
 

Step 3: Identify Types and Sources of Waste ...................................................................................................5
 

Step 4: Assess Current Waste Collection Contracts.......................................................................................8
 

Step 5: Develop a Plan ............................................................................................................................................9
 

Step 6: Educate Staff and Customers ..............................................................................................................14
 

Step 7: Monitor and Refine the Plan .................................................................................................................15
 

Step 8: Measure Performance ............................................................................................................................15
 

Step 9: Promote Successes.................................................................................................................................16
 

Step 10: Expand the Program..............................................................................................................................17
 

SECTION 2. ADDITIONAL WASTE STRATEGIES......................................... 18
 

SECTION 3. CASE STUDIES ............................................................................... 20
 

APPENDIX A: WORKSHEETS FOR CHARACTERIZING YOUR WASTE ... 23
 

APPENDIX B: GLOSSARY.................................................................................... 34
 

1 

Introduction 

Airports throughout the United States are “greening” their operations. They are installing solar 

panels and energy efficient light fixtures, using low-emission vehicles in their fleets and 

changing their waste management programs. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 

designed this guide to help airport managers who want to create a more environmentally-friendly 

waste operation. The EPA hierarchy of waste management prioritizes source reduction, then 

reuse, recycling and finally disposal in landfills. However, this guide focuses on recycling as a 

positive first step for airports to take as they conquer their waste issues. 

Section 1 of this guide focuses on how to establish an airport recycling program. Using examples 

from the experiences of airports around the country, along with the experience of EPA, this 

document presents ten steps for designing and implementing a successful airport recycling 

program. Every airport is unique and there is more than one way to set-up and run a successful 

recycling program; however, there are general practices that are effective in most situations. 

Section 2 provides examples of activities that promote source reduction, and the importance of 

purchasing environmentally friendly products. Examples of innovative airport waste reduction 

programs are included in Section 3. 

Ten Steps to Establishing an Airport Recycling Program 

1. Obtain commitment from upper management 

2. Organize a green team 

3. Identify types and sources of waste 

4. Assess current waste collection contracts 

5. Develop a plan 

6. Educate staff and customers 

7. Monitor and refine the plan 

8. Measure performance 

9. Promote successes 

10. Expand the program 

Appendix A is a set of worksheets and instructions for identifying and measuring waste. 

Appendix B is a glossary of waste management terms. 
2 

Section 1. Establishing a Successful Recycling Program 

Step 1: Obtain Commitment from Upper Management 

Management support is crucial to develop and sustain an airport recycling program. Before you 

assemble a team, management must authorize the use of the team’s time and possible changes in 

job responsibilities and priorities. In addition, the initial stages of a program will require 

financial investments to purchase the necessary equipment and to train staff. 

It is important to inform management that there are environmental and potential economic 

benefits in implementing an airport recycling program. Step 9, Promote Your Successes, 

describes tools to quantify the potential greenhouse gas benefits of recycling. For example, 

recycling 10 tons of corrugated cardboard saves 35 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent 

(MTCO2E), which is equivalent to the emissions from the consumption of 3,973 gallons of 

gasoline. Comparisons such as these can help make the link between waste management and 

climate protection, an increasingly important issue in the transportation sector. 

In addition, case studies from other airports demonstrate that programs can work in a variety of 

airports, regardless of size or location. Section 3 of this guide provides success stories from 

several different airports, with more examples available at the Web site for EPA’s “Recycle on 

the Go” initiative (http://www.epa.gov/recycleonthego). 

Request that management approve the time for several employees from different areas of the 

airport to participate on a “green team.” Inform management that as the program progresses the 

green team will continue to seek their consultation. Step 2 includes details on assembling a 

green team and delegating responsibilities. 

Management should be informed of any recycling regulations that are relevant. Many local 

governments have ordinances requiring recycling in all facilities located within their jurisdiction. 

Your airport might even be required by law to have a recycling system in place. In 2006, the 

Natural Resources Defense Council determined that “62 of 67 large and medium airports in the 

United States are located in states or cities with some kind of recycling target, goal or mandate.” 

Contact your local and state environmental agencies to check waste and recycling regulations. 

Some states have landfill bans on green waste, including grass clippings, leaves and branches. 

Make sure you are able to identify which materials are covered by the regulations and if there are 

targets for the amount of waste reduction (e.g., recycle 30 percent of all waste, recycle 20 percent 

of paper waste). 
 

3 

Special Considerations for Airports 

Airport Security 

The first priority for airports is to ensure that all program elements are consistent 

with security requirements. Including a recycling element in your waste 

management plan may require additional personnel in secure areas of the airport and 

on the airfield. Bins may need to be additionally secured and inspected. Bombproof receptacles may be required outside secure areas. 

Facility Space Constraints 

Airports have unique space considerations. Gates areas, tenant space, and 

concessionaires often do not have large amounts of additional space for bins, and 

staging areas are limited. The airfield generally has space constraints as well, 

leaving little area for additional bins. On the airfield, airports need to be aware of 

concerns recycling bins may raise such as foreign object debris (FOD), animal 

attractants, and stormwater contamination. However, a successful recycling 

program will reduce the amount of trash generated and the number of containers to 

store trash. This space can be used for recyclable materials. 

Time 

When airlines become involved with your recycling program, time is a primary 

concern. Airline staff or cleaning service providers have limited time to clean an 

aircraft before it is scheduled for another departure. A program with easily 

accessible collection receptacles (dumpsters, compactors, etc) and clear instructions 

make it easier for airlines to actively participate in recycling. 

Working with Tenants 

Establishing and maintaining consistent recycling practices and educating airport 

tenants (food/beverage, concessions, airlines and others) are key components of an 

airport’s recycling program. Educational material that is readily available for easy 

distribution to all new employees allows tenants to stay involved. 
4 

Step 2: Organize a Green Team 

Once your program is approved, assemble a green team including individuals from every sector 

of the airport: terminals, offices, hangars, vendors, airlines, and flight kitchens. The green team 

plans and implements the recycling program in the initial phase, then maintains and monitors the 

program once it is in place. If there is a recycling program in your community, consider 

involving the local solid waste office. They are valuable team members with knowledge 

regarding local haulers and material markets. The green team may include individuals from 

inside and outside the airport. Portland International Airport and the Port of Portland work with 

faculty and graduate research assistants from Portland State University’s Community 

Environmental Services. Philadelphia International Airport brought together a team of 

environmental professionals, local government staff, state officials, recycling staff from other 

airports, as well as their own staff from various departments, to discuss and develop the best 

options for implementing a recycling program at their airport. Once assembled, the green team 

is responsible for: 

• working with airport management; 

• gathering information needed to design and implement the program; 

• encouraging the participation of other staff; 

• training and educating tenants and concessionaires; and, 

• monitoring the program. 

Selecting a team leader or recycling coordinator 

Appointing a recycling coordinator to oversee your program is beneficial. Too often recycling 

responsibilities divided among several individuals causes a disjointed program with low 

recycling rates. A recycling coordinator is responsible for the entire program, including 

overseeing implementation and monitoring operations. The recycling coordinator should 

understand the current waste management program. While the recycling coordinator does not 

need to work full time on recycling, it should be a top priority. 

Creating a recycling coordinator position, either through contracting with a recycling specialist 

or creating a staff position, will enable your airport to organize, execute and evaluate your 

recycling program. Team members that may make a good recycling coordinator include the 

airport environmental specialist, an operations manager, or a construction and maintenance 

service manager. Many airports employ help from an outside group or expert to educate them 

about details of a recycling program. A recycling expert can help save time by researching basic 

needs for the program and possible markets for materials. 
5 

Step 3: Identify Types and Sources of Waste 

Before you develop a recycling plan, understand what waste is generated and collected at your 

airport by performing a waste assessment. A waste assessment provides qualitative and 

quantitative data. It also provides a baseline to measure progress in the future. 

A waste assessment will help you answer the following questions: 

•	 What areas of the airport generate waste? 

•	 What recyclable material is generated? 

•	 What type of waste is generated in each area of the airport? 

•	 How much waste is generated by each area of the airport (airlines, airport offices, 

customers, concessions, etc)? 

•	 What are the waste-related costs for trash and recycling containers, hauling, disposal 

recycling and labor (in equipment dollars and worker time)? 

There are three primary approaches to conducting a waste assessment: 

•	 Records Examination 

•	 Facility Walk-Through 

• Waste Sort 

The type of assessment you choose is based on the size of your airport, the existing knowledge of 

your waste stream, the goals of the program, and the resources available. Worksheets outlining 

the steps included in all three waste assessments are found in Appendix A. 

Records Examination 

A records examination provides information on the quantity of waste generated, as well as costs, 

for labor, equipment and services. If you don’t have a centralized waste management system, try 

to compile all the waste data from the different haulers that service your airport. The records that 

may be useful include: 

•	 purchasing, inventory, maintenance, and operating logs; 

•	 supply and equipment invoices; and, 

•	 waste hauling and disposal records and contracts. 

Facility Walk-Through 

A facility walk-through provides qualitative waste information through observation of staff and 

customers. The primary benefit of a facility walk-through is the first-hand observation of waste 

handling practices. The types and amounts of waste generated at the facility can be observed at 

this time. Track how waste moves through the airport. Assess existing space and equipment 

available for storage of waste, processing of recyclables, and other collection tasks. Also, talk to 

staff about their waste generation and disposal habits. The custodial staff is an excellent source 

of information in a facility walk-through. 
6 

Waste Sort 

The most comprehensive and resource intensive waste assessment is a waste sort. A waste sort 

looks at the contents of waste receptacles throughout the airport to evaluate what and where 

material is disposed. 

Waste sort for Portland International Airport. 

Photo provided by: Portland International Airport 

Any airport recycling program, from a new program to a well established program, benefits from 

understanding how much waste is generated and recovered by their facility. Due to fluctuations 

in passenger travel and the corresponding fluctuation in waste generated, it is useful to normalize 

waste assessment data to the passenger level. For example, some airports compare the pounds of 

waste generated per passenger to the pounds of waste recovered per passenger. Airports often 

define “recovered” as material recycled instead of placed in trash cans. This allows program 

staff to establish more accurate program goals and measure impacts. 
7 

Exhibit 1 

Waste Assessment Approaches 

Strengths Limitations 

Records Examination 

• Provides weights and volumes of waste • Lack of quantitative data for specific 

generated waste components 

• Tracks major potential waste from the point • Does not provide qualitative data on how 

of origin or why wastes are generated 

• Identifies the expensive or valuable • Substantial effort necessary to collect and 

components of an organization’s waste analyze data 

• Documents financial benefits of reuse and 

recycling including total revenues and 

avoided disposal costs 

• Requires the least time and effort 

• Establishes baseline for metrics 

Facility Walk-Through 

• Requires less time and effort than waste sorts 

• Allows first-hand examination of facility 

operations 

• Provides qualitative information about major 

waste components and waste-generating 

processes 

• Reveals waste reduction activities 

• Develops appreciation of logistics and 

obstacles tenants encounter in their efforts to 

recycle 

• Limited identification of wastes generated 

• Multiple attempts may be necessary for 

comprehensive evaluation 

• Relies on estimates of waste generation 

Waste Sort 

• Provides quantitative data on total waste • Requires more time and effort than other 

generation and specific waste components approaches 

• Allows problem solving and design of • Multiple attempts may be necessary for 

recycling program to be site specific comprehensive evaluation 

• Does not provide qualitative data on how 

or why wastes are generated 

Source: USEPA, Business Guide for Reducing Solid Waste, 1993. 
Cardboard Recycling 

Photo provided by: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport 

8 

Step 4: Assess Current Waste Collection Contracts 

Recycling programs require someone to transport the waste from the airport (a hauler) and a 

market to accept the material (a recycler). One company may provide both services or separate 

contracts may be needed for these services. 

There are two systems of waste hauling contracts: decentralized and centralized. An airport with 

individual contracts for each tenant is a decentralized system. An airport that handles all waste 

together is a centralized system. Many airports decide to use a centralized waste management 

system to simplify collection. A centralized system requires only one set of bins and central 

collection areas for all tenants. A centralized system may be useful if tenants do not individually 

generate sufficient recyclable material to support collection. 

You will want to assess the services available in your area. Contact your current waste hauler to 

determine if they have the ability to collect recyclables. Your current hauler may be able to 

change the terms of your contract to reflect reductions in waste collection due to recycling. 

EPA’s WasteWise program has compiled a 

list of questions to ask a potential recycler: 

•	 What types of recyclables will the 

company accept and how must 

they be sorted/prepared (singlestream, commingled)? 

•	 What contract terms will the buyer 

require? 

•	 Who provides the transportation? 

•	 What is the schedule of collection? 

•	 What are the maximum allowable 

contaminant levels and what is the 

procedure for dealing with rejected 

loads? 

•	 Where will the waste be weighed? 

•	 Who will provide containers for 

the recyclables? 

•	 Can “escape clauses” be included 

in the contract? 

•	 What revenues should recycling 

generate? 

•	 What tracking statistics (tonnage, 

costs, rebates, etc.) will they 

provide and in what format? 

•	 Would baling onsite improve 

revenue and collection issues? 
 

 

9 

The custodial or maintenance staff will likely be tasked with moving recyclables from public 

areas to a common staging area. Evaluate internal waste collection practices to determine if 

collection of recyclables will require additional staff. Determine if there are contract limitations 

with the staff that currently collects waste. For example, they may be limited in the areas of the 

terminal they can service. 

Step 5: Develop a Plan 

To develop a successful recycling plan, consider factors such as the number of passengers that 

pass through your facility each day, the size of your airport, and the characteristics of your 

traffic. Identify all factors that will influence your plan and affect the scale and scope of your 

recycling program. Use the information from your waste assessment to identify your critical 

needs. For example, if you have a high traffic cargo area you may need special collection 

systems for wooden pallets. 

Many airports initially target the “big five” recyclable materials – paper, plastic, glass, 

corrugated cardboard, and aluminum – then expand their program to recycle wooden pallets, 

food waste, electronics, used tires and other materials. Initially, target materials that would be 

easiest to collect and draft a plan to expand into other materials. Corrugated cardboard and 

aluminum are good initial materials with substantial environmental benefits and possible 

financial returns. Additionally, “back of the house” material collection only requires employee 

participation. 

Select a Collection System 

There are multiple types of sorting systems to consider for your program. The best system may 

employ a combination of sorting methods, including commingled recycling and multi-stream 

recycling. Each system has its own advantages and each airport should carefully consider its 

collection practices at all levels before making a decision. Local market conditions, the 

regulatory framework, and hauler collection standards must be taken into consideration during 

the system design phase. 

•	 Separate stream (multi-stream) – requires airport patrons and employees to place 

recyclables in separate bins. The most common version of separate stream recycling is 

one bin for containers (plastics bottles, aluminum cans, and glass bottles) and another bin 

for paper. 

•	 Single stream (commingled) – allows airport patrons and employees to place all 

recyclables in a single bin. The material is sorted later, usually at the materials recovery 

facility. 

•	 Post-treatment separation – airport patrons and employees dispose of recyclables and 

trash together. All material is sorted later. This is a very labor intensive process and 

lacks visibility within the airport. The public may not realize the airport recycles if you 

use post-treatment separation. 
10

Collection system options are limited by the options available in your area (as discussed in Step 

4). Although they collect similar materials, you will most likely determine that your office 

spaces require a different system than the public areas of the airport. Construction and 

maintenance areas will also need special systems and different containers. If you have disposal 

facilities and haulers that can handle more than one type of system, compare the costs of 

collection containers and material reimbursements. 

Staging area equipment at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport 

Photo provided by: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport 

Storage and staging areas 

Staging areas are central locations where recyclables from throughout the airport are stored and 

haulers pick up material. A common problem among airports is finding sufficient area to stage 

materials. Staging areas require space for larger containers. As discussed in the previous step, 

the complex ownership and multiple tenants in airports may require airports to lease additional 

space from the airlines to establish staging areas. 

The most common equipment found in staging areas are dumpsters, compactors and balers. 

Compactors and balers condense material, saving space. Depending on the quantity of plastic 

bottles and cardboard collected, a baler or compactor should be considered in order to maximize 

the weight and quantity in transportation. Your recycler may indicate that they prefer compacted 

or baled materials. 
11 

Exhibit 2 

Common Recyclable Materials Found at Airports 

WHERE 

WHAT 

Public TerminalsTicketingSecurity GatesFood Service AreasOfficesCargo ShippingMaintenance AreasAirport GroundsAircraftAirfield RampsConstruction Areas Concessionaires, Retailers, Rental CarFacilities 

Corrugated 

Cardboard 8 8 8 8 8 8 

Mixed Paper 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 

Newspaper 8 8 8 8 8 

Glass 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 

Aluminum 

Cans 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 

Plastic Bottles 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 

Pallets 8 

Food Waste & 

Cooking Oil 8 8 8 

Organics/ 

Green Waste 8 

Electronics 8 

Used Tires 8 

Used Oil 8 

Scrap Metal 8 8 8 

Concrete 8 

Lumber 8 

Batteries 8 

Toner 

Cartridges 8 8 

Plastic 

(non-bottles, 

e.g. film) 8 8 8 
12 

Bin Selection and Placement 

Proper collection bins are vital to the success of your recycling program. They are also the major 

expense at the formation of your program. For these reasons, the decision of what bins to 

purchase, how they are labeled, and where they will be located is the most important decision 

you will make in this stage of your recycling plan. 

The type of collection bins used at airports is as unique as the airports. Some airports choose allin-one systems that include compartments for recyclables and trash. Other airports use modular 

systems. A new trend in bins is the inclusion of advertising. The bin from Seattle-Tacoma 

International Airport, shown on the next page, utilizes space above the bins to earn revenues. 

The best bins are those with clear labeling and design features that limit contamination. Be sure 

that each visible side of the bin is labeled. Mark the bins with words and pictures, so they are 

understandable to international passengers. Often, labeling “bottles and cans” rather than “glass, 

plastic, and aluminum” gives a stronger message, reducing confusion and contamination. 

Seattle-Tacoma Airport redesigned their recycling bins to make them more noticeable to the 

public. With a simple relabeling of the same basic bin, public recycling at the airport increased 

by 40 percent. 

The bag choice for inside of the bins is important as well. Using different colored liners for the 

recycling bins allows the cleaning crew to easily keep track of what is recyclable and which 

central collection container it goes in. Other options include clear, see-through liners or halfclear/half-colored liners. 

Placement of bins in high traffic areas and areas of material generation is important. Always 

place recycling containers next to trash cans to reduce contamination. It is important to check 

the waste bins often enough to keep them from overfilling and discouraging people from using 

the recycling bins for trash. Another way to prevent contamination is to buy bins with distinct 

openings (round for bottles and cans, slotted for paper) and different colored tops. Page 13 has 

photos of several different types of bins used at airports throughout the country. 

Set goals 

Establish goals for your program before you begin collection. These goals may be based on 

targets set by the community. Many localities are working to be the most environmentally 

friendly in the country. They may require the airport to recycle a certain percentage of their 

waste to help with this goal. Use information obtained during your waste assessment to establish 

goals. 
13 

Exhibit 3 

In-Terminal Collection Bins 

From top to bottom: Kansas City International Airport, Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall 

Airport, Philadelphia International Airport, Salt Lake City International Airport, and Seattle-Tacoma International 

Airport. 
14

Step 6: Educate Staff and Customers 

Airports must educate both employees and customers about a new recycling program. Employee 

education begins as soon as the plan is developed. Customer education will begin after you 

implement your plan. For a successful, long-term recycling program continual education of these 

groups is necessary. 

Educate airport staff 

Before your plan is rolled out, meet with the participants. Airports with successful programs talk 

to vendors, maintenance staff, airline staff and other Exhibit 4 employees face-to-face about their role in the program. 

After the program is in place, they follow-up regularly to Educational Materials 

ensure there are no new questions. 

Airports frequently re-educate the entire airport staff 

regarding the benefits of recycling and how the program
 

functions in the airport. Portland International Airport 

includes information about the recycling program in new 

employee training, emails, staff meetings, vendor 

meetings, and through regular face-to-face interactions 

with airport users. San Diego International Airport 

created a handbook, in Spanish and English, explaining 

the recycling program. In the handbook, employees 

learn how the recycling program operates, why the 

airport chose a single-stream approach, the benefits of 

recycling and recycling facts. 

Educate customers 

As with any good recycling program, airports must 

clearly identify where bins are located and how to use 

them. Educating customers about the benefits of 

recycling reinforces the practice. Place informational 

signs on or near bins explaining why recycling is 

important. Midway Airport, in Chicago, developed signs 

that show products that are made from recycled 

materials. They also displayed large banners telling 

customers “Chicago Recycles”. A terminal poster may 

encourage a visitor to walk a few extra feet to find the 

bin. External publicity should be considered through press releases to local news media to inform 

hometown customers and other interested parties of airport recycling. 

Source: San Diego International 

Airport. 
15 

Step 7: Monitor and Refine the Plan 

During the life of the recycling program, periodically evaluate how well your plan is working 

and what adjustments are needed. Be prepared to make changes to bins, collection schedules, 

and educational material. Monitor the use of all bins to determine if they are being used 

properly. Visual inspections of the bins by members of the green team and discussions with the 

custodial staff can help identify bins that are not used or that are overfilling before collection. 

The solution may be as simple as moving the location of the bins; however, if resources are 

available you may also decide to add additional bins to certain areas of the airport. 

The amount of recyclables collected varies by quantity and material throughout the day. For 

example, airports find that more newspapers are disposed of in the morning. As a result, the 

newspaper bins fill at a faster rate in the morning and may require earlier collection by custodial 

staff than plastic bottles, which are generated more frequently in the afternoon. If your program 

succeeds in dramatically changing the composition and timing of the waste collected, your initial 

estimates for hauler contracts may also require adjustment. 

Even the most successful programs will experience contamination problems in their recycling 

program. Regular visual inspections of dumpsters and trash cans can educate the recycling team 

about problem areas. At Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, the 

recycling team inspects airfield trash and recycling containers twice a month. Weekly, they 

observe and photograph the contents of a compactor at the hauler’s facility. Because of the 

staff’s knowledge of which vendors and airlines use each dumpster, if they observe 

contamination, they can identify where more education is needed. 

Step 8: Measure Performance 

Establish a set of measures to monitor your performance. Metrics that are measured consistently 

(annually/quarterly/monthly) using the same collection methodology allow your team to correct 

problems and report measurements to airport management and the public. 

Quantifying the amount of waste you collect is a challenging project. However, without accurate 

measurements it is difficult to improve or expand your program. Use your initial waste assessment 

(Step 3) as a baseline and methodology for monitoring your program. Airports with recycling programs 

recommend that measurement metrics are normalized by the number of passengers. Normalizing your 

waste collection data adjusts for seasonal and long-term changes in airport traffic. 

Expenses are often higher during the first year of a new program. The largest first year costs include 

purchasing collection bins and training staff. As your recycling program progresses you should be able 

to see cost savings from reduced trash pick-ups and sale of recycled material. 

Consider the following factors when collecting program data: 

• Cost of waste disposal 

• Cost of recycling 

• Dumpster rental costs 
16

• Internal labor cost (including custodial staff, recycling coordinator) 

• Location of bins 

• Weight of waste disposed 

• Weight of materials recycled 

Step 9: Promote Successes 

Publicize your program inside and outside the airport. As cities compete to be classified as the 

most environmentally friendly, promoting recycling in your airport enhances your local image. 

An airport is often the first and last experience a traveler has with a particular area. Promoting an 

environmental message like recycling will send a positive message to the passengers coming 

through the airport. Many consumers have come to expect recycling bins in public areas. A 

successful program reflects positively on the airport’s environmental stewardship, and it 

encourages employees and customers to continue to contribute to the program’s growth. 

Demonstrate the success of your program to the public by quantifying the positive impact the 

program is having on the environment. Waste reduction programs reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) 

emissions and saves energy by using fewer resources. Mining or harvesting virgin material is 

reduced in producing new products from recovered materials. EPA’s Waste Reduction Model 

(WARM) (http://www.epa.gov/WARM) is a tool for airports and other businesses to estimate the 

greenhouse gas and energy savings from recycling, composting and source reduction. 

Exhibit 5 

Sample Greenhouse Gas Benefits of Recycling 

Using EPA’s WARM model 

Material Recycled Metric Tons of Carbon 

Dioxide Equivalent 

Equivalency 

Glass (10 tons) 3 Emissions from the consumption 

of 341 gallons of gasoline 

Corrugated Cardboard 

(10 tons) 

34 Emissions from the consumption 

of 3,859 gallons of gasoline 

Mixed Plastics (10 tons) 16 Emissions from the consumption 

of 1,816 gallons of gasoline 
17 

Step 10: Expand the Program 

After successfully running your recycling program for a year or season you may decide to 

expand your program to collect additional materials or include new areas of the airport. Periodic 

review of your original nine steps can help focus efforts to improve and expand your program. 

As mentioned in Step 5, most programs start with paper, aluminum, plastic, glass and corrugated 

cardboard. While working to maximize the materials already collected, consider new materials 

such as organic waste. A program targeting organic waste, such as food scraps and yard waste 

for composting, may involve new partners outside of the airport. There are also non-composting 

options for food waste. For example, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport donates unused food 

to local food banks. See Section 3 for a description of Seattle-Tacoma’s food waste program. 

Program expansion may include involving additional partners. Integrate vendors, airlines and 

flight kitchens into your program if you were not able to do so initially. 

Airports’ recycling programs also expand to new areas of the airport as their programs grow. 

Parking areas are often not included in initial plans. Recycling in parking areas may require 

collection bins that are more durable than those inside of the airport in order to withstand 

weather and collisions with vehicles. 
18 

Section 2. Additional Waste Strategies 

Chemicals Management 

Airports handle an array of environmentally toxic chemicals in maintenance areas, on the 

runway, and on airport grounds. Properly managing these chemicals, which may include 

minimization and recycling, reduces the environmental impact of their use. Among the many 

examples of chemicals that airports may encounter are PCBs, de-icing fluids, mercury and 

pesticides. For some of these chemicals the main objective is reduction, such as with pesticides. 

For others, such as the glycol from de-icing fluids, the goal is recovery and recycling. As with 

other types of solid waste, you may need to find a market for the recycled material if it can not 

be used onsite. Recycling or reduction of chemicals may also require investments in equipment 

or the development of collection methods. 

Several airports have joined EPA's National Partnership for Environmental Priorities (NPEP), a 

program designed to reduce the use and release of designated chemicals of a national concern 

(http://www.epa.gov/npep). Airports already enrolled in NPEP include Los Angeles International 

Airport, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, Dallas Love Field, and the Houston Airport 

System. 

Source reduction 

Source reduction is the design, manufacture, acquisition, and reuse of materials so as to 

minimize the quantity and/or toxicity of waste produced. Source reduction prevents waste either 

by redesigning products or by otherwise changing patterns of consumption, use and waste 

generation. 

Every area of the airport has opportunities to reduce waste generation. One source reduction 

practice that is easy to implement is setting printers to print on both sides of the paper. Another 

popular office space source reduction practice is using reusable mugs and glasses. The airport 

could even encourage this practice by distributing mugs or reusable water bottles (mention your 

recycling program on the mugs and bottles to give your program extra exposure). 

Concessionaires in the airport can practice source reduction by using less packaging and limiting 

the amount of materials distributed to customers. The cargo area of the airport can reuse pallets. 

The benefits of source reduction are more than just environmental. Using less material will 

result in fewer products purchased and less waste disposal – potentially leading to direct cost 

savings. 
 

19

Buy Recycled 

Another way for your airport to support resource conservation and recycling is by purchasing 

recycled-content products. By using recycled-content products you “close the loop” and increase 

demand for recycled-content products in the marketplace, helping to ensure demand for the 

recyclable materials your airport diverts. 

Recycled products and supplies exist for all areas of your airport. For example, offices are an 

easy place to begin using recycled products. Recycled-content paper is available through most 

office suppliers. Some important terms to look for on a product with recycled content are 

“Percentage Recycled Content” and “Percentage Post-Consumer Material.” Recycled material 

includes all material that would have been otherwise discarded. This may include material that 

was generated as part of the manufacturing process, but was never used by consumers. Postconsumer material is material from products that were used by consumers or businesses and 

would otherwise be discarded as waste. The primary goal is to find products with the highest 

percentage of recycled content available. 

There are several sources online to help you identify recycled-content products. 

The Federal government developed the Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines (CPG) and 

Environmentally Preferable Purchasing policies (http://www.epa.gov/cpg/links.htm). Not only 

does the website provide information on the availability of recycled content products, it can help 

you develop an environmentally friendly procurement policy for your airport. 

Another helpful reference is the California Integrated Waste Management Board’s “Recycled 

Content Products Directory Homepage” with categories ranging from Agriculture and 

Landscaping Products to Paper and Paper Products (http://www.ciwmb.ca.gov/RCP/). 
20

Section 3. Case Studies 

Los Angeles International Airport’s cargo area recycling 

Los Angeles International Airport offers cargo handling companies free recycling of wooden 

pallets, cardboard and plastic. To optimize usage, the recycling bin is in close proximity to the 

trash bin. The use of magnetic signs allows bins to be used for the collection of different 

materials as needed. 

Plastic film, bags and shrink wrap from cargo operations are collected in bins using the same 

methods as with pallets and cardboard. The bins are brought back to the recycling yard, the 

contents are checked for contaminants, loaded into containers and sent to area recycling 

companies. 

Dumpsters for pallet recycling at Los Angeles International Airport 

Photo provided by: Los Angeles International Airport 

Cargo recycling occurs in addition to the established terminal recycling program. Various sized 

collection bins are placed around the airport. In addition, tenants can request bins for one time 

events such as file cleaning and relocation. The full bins are brought back to Los Angeles World 

Airport’s maintenance facility where the contents are sorted, contaminants removed and the 

cardboard is baled. The mixed paper and cardboard is then sold to area recycling companies. 
21 

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport's Food Donation Program 

Food scraps are a large portion of an airport's waste stream. Seattle-Tacoma International 

Airport found a way to reduce the amount of food they send to the landfill while helping the 

community. Unused (wrapped, packaged) food that would otherwise be discarded is donated to 

local food banks. The food donation program is also an excellent example of cooperation 

between airports and tenants. Concessions vendors are engaged as active participants and learn 

alternate ways to minimize their impact on the environment, while they simultaneously help the 

community. Since 2006, Seattle-Tacoma has donated 26,000 pounds of pre-packaged food to 

food banks. If your airport is concerned about liability, contact the local food bank to discuss the 

Federal Good Samaritan Food Donation Act of 1996. 

Food scraps that are not suitable for donation are not wasted either. The airport collects over 10 

tons of coffee grounds every month. The recovered coffee grounds are mixed with yard waste 

and sent to a compost facility. Cooking oil is another food waste that can be recycled. 

Reclaimed cooking oil, from airport restaurants and bars, is sold for use as biodiesel. 

For additional information on food donation as a waste reduction practice see: 

Putting Surplus Food to Good Use 

http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/non-hw/organics/pubs/food-guide.pdf 

Donating Surplus Food to the Needy 

http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/non-hw/reduce/wstewise/pubs/needy2.pdf 

Recovering Organic Wastes – Giving Back to Mother Nature 

http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/non-hw/reduce/wstewise/pubs/wwupda12.pdf 
22 

Delta Air Lines 

A challenge facing airports with established recycling programs is capturing the recyclables from 

aircraft. Airlines face an entirely separate set of roadblocks to collecting recyclable material. 

Unlike the terminal and office space, airline staff – including flight attendants, airline cleaning 

crews and flight kitchens – collects materials on aircrafts, not the customer or employee. Waste 

collection is not, however, their primary concern. Flight attendants must ensure the safety of the 

passengers before shifting their priorities to waste collection. With limited time to move up and 

down the aisles and limited storage space in the aircraft, even the most well-intentioned efforts 

by flight attendants may be hindered. 

Delta took on the challenge of recycling domestic in-flight waste during 2007. The first step was 

to launch the program at their largest hub and world headquarters in Atlanta, Ga. The materials 

identified for collection were aluminum cans, plastic cups, plastic bottles and paper. To keep the 

process simple and minimize the amount of time flight attendants spent collecting the material, 

they decided to use a single stream system. The single stream process also facilitated easy 

transfer of materials between aircraft, airports and crews. By placing all the recyclables in a 

separate bag on top of the trash, it could be stored in the trash cart where the service crew would 

be able to quickly identify the material when it was unloaded from the aircraft. Aluminum cans 

recovered in the beverage cart are recycled by the flight kitchen. Between June and December of 

2007, Delta was able to divert 148.3 tons of material from Atlanta area landfills. In addition, 

Delta was able to realize monetary savings from reduced landfill fees. Rebates earned from 

recycling are put back into the program and a portion of the proceeds are given to charitable 

organizations. 

Delta’s experience provides lessons about publicizing the positive results of a program as well. 

Earlier attempts to recycle on flights had failed because, among other reasons, the flight 

attendants were not convinced that the material they collected was actually being recycled on the 

ground. To educate the flight attendants and assure them that their efforts were worthwhile, 

Delta created materials to show the recycling process and the goals of the program. They also 

developed a set of activities to support “continuous education.” Continuous education is 

provided by materials displayed in flight attendant lounges, as well as through online newsletters 

and posters with monthly recycling statistics displayed in the break rooms. 

Due to the success of their in-flight program, Delta continues to expand their program. They 

recently began recycling carpet from aircrafts and established a recycling center in their world 

headquarters for use by their employees. 
23

Appendix A: Worksheets for Characterizing Your Waste 

Records Review 

The following worksheets help you estimate the total amount paid for waste removal services for 

your airport. 

Airport records (including waste hauling contracts, maintenance and operating logs, and waste 

removal records) will be the primary sources of information needed to complete this worksheet. 

Maintenance staff or contractors also might be able to provide information. 

This worksheet measures current costs of onsite waste collection and offsite waste removal. 

Waste collection involves gathering trash from areas throughout the airport and taking it to an 

onsite collection area such as a dumpster. Waste removal involves shipping the waste off site for 

disposal. In addition, this worksheet is designed to help you calculate waste removal costs 

whether you pay a flat fee or are charged per pull. A flat fee is a rate charged for waste removal 

services that remains constant over a specific period of time (such as a year) regardless of 

fluctuations in the amount of waste generated. A pull charge is a fee paid every time a hauler 

empties or removes a container. Charges in this fee structure do not reflect the volume of waste 

in the container. 

If waste removal practices vary significantly in different areas of the airport, or if different waste 

contractors are used, record the information separately. 
 

 

24 

Onsite Waste Collection 

Name of waste collector: 

Telephone number: 

Check one Maintenance staff Maintenance contractor 

Collection Schedule: 

Number of times per (day/week/other) 

Annual Cost of Waste Collection (if maintenance contractor): 

If waste collection is performed by a maintenance contractor use this formula to calculate the annual cost. 

$ $ $

Annual payments to 

maintenance contractor 

+ 

Waste container rental 

fee, if any 

= 

Annual cost of waste 

collection 

Annual Cost of Waste Collection (if maintenance staff): 

If waste collection is performed by in-house staff, calculate the costs below. When filling in hourly rate, be 

sure to calculate wage rate plus overhead including benefits. (In many businesses, a factor of 1.3 is often 

used. For example, for an employee earning $10.00/hr, use an hourly rate of $13.00.) 

Collection personnel: 

# of employees 

X $

Hourly 

rate 

X 

Hours per week 

X 52 = $ 

Total annual labor cost spent 

on waste collection 

If applicable, add: 

$ 

Waste container 

rental fee 

Per 

Time period 

X 

Periods per year 

= $ 

Annual waste container 

rental cost 

$ $ $

Total annual labor 

cost 

+ 

Annual waste 

container rental cost 

= Annual cost of 

onsite waste collection 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

25 

Offsite Waste Removal 

Name of waste removal company: 

Telephone number: 

Contract expires on: 

Removal Schedule: 

Number of times per (day/week/month/other) 

Day of week Time(s) 

Day of week Time(s) 

Day of week Time(s) 

Waste Removal Charge (if charged as flat fee part of rent): 

$ $

Waste removal 

fee 

X 

Time periods 

per year 

= 

Annual waste 

removal charge 

Waste Removal Charge (if charged by weight or volume): 

$ 

Waste removal charge 

Per 

Unit of weight 

or volume 

X 

Unit of waste 

removed annually 

= $

Annual waste 

removal charge 

 If applicable, add: 

$ $

Hauling container(s) 

rental fee 

Per 

Time period 

X 

Time periods 

per year 

= 

Annual waste

container rental cost 

$ $ $

Annual waste removal 

charge 

+ 

Annual waste container 

rental cost 

= 

Annual waste 

removal charge 
 

 

$

26 

Waste Removal Charge (if charged by pull): 

$ $

Charge per pull 

X 

Pulls per year 

= Annual waste pulling 

charge 

If applicable add: 

$ 

Hauling container(s) 

rental fee 

per 

Time period 

x 

Time periods per 

year 

= $ 

Annual waste 

container rental cost 

$ $ 

Tipping fee 

per Unit of weight or 

volume 

x 

Units of waste 

removed annually 

= 

Annual tipping fee 

$ $ $

Annual waste pulling 

charge 

+ 

Annual waste 

container rental cost 

+ 

Annual tipping fee 

= Annual waste

removal charge 
27 

Facility Walk-Through 

This worksheet will help you to identify and record the different waste-generating activities and 

equipment in your airport, the types of waste produced, and any current waste reduction efforts. 

In addition, it will help you to identify all materials that could be targeted by your waste 

reduction program and brainstorm ways to reduce, reuse or recycle these materials. 

The information needed to complete this worksheet can be obtained by conducting a walkthrough of targeted functional areas of your airport. The walk-through entails carefully 

observing waste-generating activities and equipment, examining the contents of waste 

containers, and interviewing supervisors and employees. 

Be sure to pay close attention to areas and operations that tend to generate the largest amounts of 

waste. Remember to include a review of the grounds maintenance operations. While conducting 

the walk-through, watch closely for activities and equipment that generate waste unnecessarily, 

as well as waste reduction practices that are already in place. 

Before your walk-through begins, contact department managers to inform them of the visit and 

the possibility of short interviews with department staff. You may also want to interview 

custodial workers and operations staff. 

If possible, schedule the walk-through just before trash pickups to allow a sufficient amount of 

waste to accumulate. During the walk-through, ask questions about variations in daily waste 

generation. 

Team members conducting walk-through: 

Employees interviewed: 
28

Facility Walk-Through Form 

Waste Components 

Waste producing 

activity 

Estimated amount of 

waste produced 

per year 

Waste material 

produced 

Current waste 

reduction activities 

(if any) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
29 

Waste Sort 

This worksheet can be used if you need a more detailed profile of the amounts and types of waste 

generated at your airport than a records review or facility walk-through can provide. This 

worksheet provides step-by-step instructions for sorting, weighing, and recording data on the 

waste your airport generates. 

Two different types of sampling methods can be used during a waste sort. The first method is to 

collect and sort all the waste generated during the day. This is the most practical method for 

smaller companies. The second method is to use a representative sample of approximately 50 

pounds of waste from each collection container (i.e., dumpster) at the airport. 

If you elect to analyze a representative sample, be sure your sorting sample is truly 

representative. Waste generation and waste components can vary significantly from day to day, 

season to season, and year to year. If you suspect that the waste sample being sorted is not truly 

representative of your airport’s waste-generating practices, consult with your trash collection or 

operations manager for input on the accuracy of the data. Make a note on this worksheet of any 

results you believe are not accurate. When sorting a sample, you will still need to weigh or 

estimate one day’s worth of waste in order to extrapolate annual estimates for each waste 

category. 

Determine the size and location of the area in which you will sort the waste. If large quantities 

of waste will be sorted, a large, flat area such as a parking garage or shipping area is an 

appropriate location to conduct the waste sort. It is advisable to sort in a sheltered area to 

provide cover from adverse weather. Be sure to consider health and safety issues as well. All 

members of the waste reduction team should wear protective clothing (such as leather or thick 

rubber gloves, heavy-duty shoes, safety glasses, and coveralls), and precautions should be taken 

to ensure that the waste does not come in contact with food or drink. 

A waste sort requires several containers for holding the sorted wastes and a scale for weighing 

the samples. The size of the containers depends on the amount of waste to be sorted. Thirty or 

fifty gallon plastic containers, garbage cans or large corrugated cardboard boxes will be needed 

for most airports. If the airport does not have large scales, they can often be rented. In addition, 

you will need shovels or push brooms. 
 

30 

Waste Sort Instructions 

Beginning the waste sort 

1. Assemble the waste sample to be sorted, using either one day’s worth of waste or an otherwise 

representative sample of waste from your facility. 

2. Weigh the empty containers that the sorted wastes will be placed into and record these weights 

on a label on each container. It may be necessary to weigh the empty container multiple times 

throughout the sort to account for changes due to materials sticking to the containers. 

3. Sort the waste sample by major component (paper, plastics, glass, metal, compostable organics, 

other). 

4. If needed, further sort each major waste component into more specific component subcategories 

(e.g., sort glass into clear, green, amber, or other). 

5. Place the sorted materials into separate labeled containers. 

Date of Waste Sort: Department: 

Sample collected over: One day Two days Other 

Sample collected: All waste at source Representative sample (specify) 

Team members conducting waste sort: 

Factors affecting representativeness of sort: 
 

 

 

31 

Calculating net component weights 

1. Weigh each filled waste container and subtract the weight of the container to obtain the net 

component weight. Record the net component weight on the spaces provided on the Waste Sort 

Form. If you did not sort these waste components into component subcategories, proceed to the 

last step. 

2. If you sorted the waste components into component subcategories, add their net weights and 

record the total waste component weight on the Waste Sort Form. 

3. Add all the total waste component weight figures to determine the total sample weight and record 

this total on the Waste Sort Form. 

Calculating percent of total sample weight 

1. Use the following formula and the figures recorded in the Net Component Weight column of the 

Waste Sort Form to compute the percentage each waste component constitutes of the total weight of 

the sample. 

2. Repeat the calculation for each waste component under consideration and record the results in the 

Percent of Total Sample Weight column on the Waste Sort Form. (Note: If you sorted the waste 

components into component subcategories, you also may choose to calculate the percentage of the 

sample occupied by each waste component subcategory, depending on the level of information you 

are interested in.) 

%

Net component weight 

÷ 

Total sample weight 

X 100 = 

Percent of total sample weight 

Calculating weight of waste generated annually 

If you sorted one day’s worth of waste, calculate the weight of waste generated for each waste component 

using the following formula: 

Net component weight 

X 

Number of working 

days per year 

= Weight of waste generated 

annually 
 

 

32

If you sorted a representative sample, first weigh or estimate all of the waste generated by your airport 

that day. Calculate the amount of waste generated annually for each waste component using the 

following formulas: 

Total component 

weight generated/day 

÷ 

Total sample weight 

(all components) 

= Multiplier 

Net component 

weight 

X 

Multiplier 

X 

Number of work 

days per year 

= Weight of waste 

generated annually 

Repeat the appropriate calculation for each waste component under consideration and record the figures 

in the “Weight of waste generated annually” column of the waste sort form. (Note: If you sorted the waste 

components into component subcategories, you may choose to calculate the amount of waste generated 

annually by each waste component subcategory; depending on the level of detail you are interested in 

obtaining.) 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

33 

Waste Sort Form 

Waste component Net component 

weight sample weight 

Percent of total 

(all components) 

Weight of waste 

generated 

annually 

Paper 

High-Grade 

Low-Grade 

Newsprint 

Corrugated Cardboard 

Magazines/Glossy 

Other 

Total Component Weight 

Glass 

Clear 

Green 

Amber 

Other 

Total Component Weight 

Metal 

Aluminum 

Other Non-Ferrous Metal 

Tin-Coated Steel 

Other Ferrous Metal 

Bi-Metal 

Other 

Total Component Weight 

Organics 

Yard Trimmings 

Food Scraps 

Scrap Wood 

Other 

Total Component Weight 

Plastics 

PET (#1) 

HDPE (#2) 

PVC (#3) 

LDPE (#4) 

Polypropylene (#5) 

Polystyrene (#6) 

Other (#7) 

Total Component Weight 

Other 

Tires 

Wooden Pallets 

Rubber 

Leather 

Inorganic (e.g., ceramics, mixed 

materials) 

Copier Toner Cartridges 

Total 
 

34

Appendix B: Glossary 

Baler: A machine used to compress recyclables into bundles to reduce volume. Balers are used 

often on newspapers, plastic, corrugated cardboard, and other sorted paper products. 

Bailing: The compaction of solid waste or recyclables into blocks or bales. 

Bimetal containers: A typical example includes tin-plated steel cans with an aluminum top. 

These containers can be separated from aluminum cans using a magnet. 

Biodegradable material: Materials that can be broken down by microorganisms into simple, 

stable compounds such as carbon dioxide and water. Most organic materials, such as food scraps 

and paper, are biodegradable. 

Commingled recyclables: Two or more recyclable materials collected together (i.e. not 

separated). 

Compactor: Power-driven device used to compress materials to a smaller volume. 

Compost: The stable, decomposed organic material resulting from the composting process. 

Also referred to as humus.
 

Composting: The controlled biological decomposition of organic materials in the presence of 

oxygen into a stable product that may be used as a soil amendment. 

Construction and demolition waste: Materials resulting from the construction, remodeling, 

repair or demolition of buildings, pavements and other structures. 

Contaminant: Foreign material that makes a recyclable or compostable material impure; for 

example, food scraps on paper products. 

Diversion rate: The amount of material being diverted for recycling, compared to the total 

amount that was previously disposed. 

Ferrous metal: Includes iron and iron-containing metal scrap. 

Generation rate: The amount of waste that is produced over a given amount of time. 

Hauler: A waste collection company that offers a complete refuse removal service. Many 

haulers now offer to serve as collectors of recyclables as well.
 

Hazardous waste: Waste material that exhibits a characteristic of hazardous waste as defined in 

the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity). 

High-grade paper: High-grade paper is usually generated in office environments. Types of 

high-grade paper include computer paper, white ledger, white envelopes and letterhead. 
 

35 

Inorganic waste: Waste composed of matter other than plant or animal. 

Low-grade paper: These papers are less valuable than high-grade paper in terms of recycling, 

although they still can be cost-effective to recycle in many cases. Some examples include 

colored paper, paper bags, and packing paper. 

Markets: Generally, a recycling business or municipal recycling facility that accepts recyclable 

materials for processing and final sale to an end user, either for their own use or for resale. 

Municipal solid waste (MSW): MSW means household waste, commercial solid waste, 

nonhazardous sludge, conditionally exempt small quantity hazardous waste, and industrial solid 

waste. 

Non-ferrous metals: Includes most types of scrap metal which do not contain iron (such as 

copper and brass). 

Organic material (organic waste): Materials containing carbon. The organic portion of MSW 

includes paper, wood, food scraps, plastics and yard trimmings. 

Pallet: A wooden platform used with a forklift for moving bales or other large items. 

Processing: The operations performed on recycled materials to render them reusable or 

marketable. Processing can include grinding glass, crushing cans, or bailing newspaper. 

Processing has two distinct functions: a separation function and a processing or beneficiation 

function. Processing generally results in adding value to a particular material. 

Recyclables: Materials that still have useful physical or chemical properties after serving their 

original purpose. Such materials can be remade into new products. 

Recycling: The process by which materials are collected and used in place of raw materials for 

new products. There are five steps in recycling: collecting waste materials, separating them by 

type (before or after collection), processing them into reusable forms, marketing the “new” 

products, and using the goods made with reprocessed materials. 

Reuse: Using items again by repairing, donating, or selling. 

Source reduction: The design, manufacture, acquisition, and reuse of materials so as to 

minimize the quantity and/or toxicity of waste produced. Source reduction prevents waste either 

by redesigning products or by otherwise changing patterns of consumption, use and waste 

generation. (See also, “waste reduction.”) 

Tipping fee: A fee charged for the unloading or dumping of material at a landfill, transfer 

station, recycling center, or waste-to-energy facility, usually stated in dollars per ton (sometimes 

called a disposal or service fee). 
36 

Transfer station: A permanent facility where waste materials are taken from smaller collection 

vehicles and placed in larger vehicles for transport. Recycling and some processing may also 

take place at transfer stations. 

Waste Reduction: Waste reduction is a broad term encompassing all waste management 

methods – source reduction, recycling, composting – that result in reduction of waste going to a 

combustion facility or landfill. 

Waste Stream: A term describing the total flow of solid waste from homes, businesses, 

institutions and manufacturing plants that must be recycled, burned, or disposed of in landfills. 

Yard trimmings: Leaves, grass clippings, prunings and other natural organic matter discarded 

from yards and gardens. 
37
 
April 2009 

EPA 530-K-08-002