The free market has not provided a foundation this nation needs to reduce, eliminate, or recycle waste. Voluntary programs of waste recycling and reduction have not been sufficient to curb the ever-increasing need to build more landfills and incinerators. Bucks County, Pennsylvania, is a good example of failed policies and enforcement by both federal and state authorities. Bucks County disposes of approximately 2,000 tons of county waste daily. Currently, Pennsylvania is the leading importer of foreign and domestic waste in the nation.
Many states complain that waste imports undercut their efforts at waste reduction and recycling.
For the last several years, states have looked to proposed federal legislation that promises states protection from imports. A state cannot prohibit a municipality from accepting waste, if an agreement is reached between the host municipality and a waste disposal company. There is no limit on other types of disposal waste that can be imported from other states or nations. Much of this waste is allowed in municipal landfills, as well as in private and commercial landfills and incinerators. They can begin by banning compostables, such as food and yard waste.