The closing session of the conference focused on what lies ahead for recycling. The landfill crisis is a thing of the past with improved technology in this field so this is no longer a viable reason for recycling. The easy to get tons of recyclables are being captured yet few states have met their recycling goals or targets. A decline in spot and broker markets for recyclables is expected. Growth will be slow, there will be fewer new programs with apathy prevailing.
Recycling is off the radar screen in the political arena.
Barriers include investors willing to risk the high volatility of the recyclables market. Expect greater focus on safety in all aspects of recycling with the OSHA inspector paying you a visit. Streamline collection, develop partnerships to link with sustainability and global climate change issues. Think of recycling as part of the manufacturing process rather than waste management. Integrate recycling into the planning efforts of the organization, city or other government entity.