waste study

What’s In Your Waste? Waste Characterization Study Reveals…

May 8, 2018

In 2017, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) funded its latest statewide waste characterization study, building on three previous waste sorts performed in 1998, 2005, and 2011. This meaningful data helps IDNR and local governments make informed program and policy decisions, evaluate expanding waste diversion initiatives, and improve existing program efficiencies.

Study Highlights: Provided waste composition data for the following waste generating sectors:

  • Residential
  • Institutional/Commercial/Industrial (ICI)
  • Overall
  • Participation from 13 landfills and transfer stations
  • 524 waste samples collected
  • Sorted into nine major material categories and 61 subcategories

Results Show: These three materials account for approximately for residential, ICI, and overall sector waste:

  • Organics
  • Paper
  • Plastic

 

Review the comparison of the Wisconsin and Iowa waste sorts SCS Engineers presented at the Wisconsin Integrated Resource Management Conference (WIRMC) to learn more about how the Iowa study and previous Wisconsin waste sorts compare.

Ready for a deeper dumpster dive? Download the full 2017 Iowa waste characterization study (go to “Studies & Reports” in the middle of the page) or the most recent Wisconsin study, or view the Best Practices for Waste Characterization webinar.

Want your state’s perspective?  Give us a call for more details or to talk about your waste sort needs. or visit our website to find the office nearest you. For information and nationwide case studies visit the solid waste planning page.

 

 

 

Posted by Diane Samuels at 6:03 am