Hazardous Waste Training

Over the past few months, NEWMOA held regular conference calls on such hazardous waste topics as:

• Containers and tanks
• State paint stewardship programs
• Acute hazardous wastes and regulatory requirements for pharmacies

These training calls are for state and federal hazardous waste inspectors and other compliance and enforcement staff and regulatory development staff.  

Pay-as-You-Throw

NEWMOA has published a brochure, called "Fair Pricing Strategies for Trash", promoting "pay-as-you-throw" (PAYT). PAYT, also known as "SMART" (save money and reduce trash), "variable rate pricing", or "unit-based pricing", is an effective way to incentivize residents to reduce waste disposal and increase recycling. The brochure includes four case studies and quotes from community leaders. 

NEWMOA's website also provides a SMART Toolkit, an essential resource for PAYT information. These resources were developed with funding from a Department of Agriculture solid waste grant.

Regional Solid Waste Programs Meeting

NEWMOA will hold a workshop in January for state solid waste program staff to learn about and discuss solid waste facility challenges. Agenda topics include:

• Landfill post 30-year closure financial assurance and performance criteria
• Municipal solid waste facility issues and strategies for improving compliance
• Construction and demolition materials challenges and strategies for improving compliance at processing facilities
• Anaerobic digestion and other conversion technologies - experience handling post-consumer inputs 

NEWMOA launched a Regional Sustainable Grocers Initiative in 2012 to develop a model regional recognition program that states could use in acknowledging sustainable leaders in the industry. NEWMOA's Sustainable Grocers Workgroup oversees the project and facilitates information sharing and coordination.

A number of grocery chains in the region, including Shaw's, Market Basket, Price Chopper, and Stop & Shop operate in multiple states making an interstate approach to the sector sensible and efficient for state programs and grocers. A number of NEWMOA's members are in the process of working with stores to pilot a model Sustainable Grocers Initiative workbook.

NEWMOA staff have developed a methodology for estimating environmental outcomes from sustainable practices in the sector. When the Workgroup review is completed in early 2015, NEWMOA will release it for external review. The measurement methodology will enable the state programs to estimate the environmental outcomes achieved by grocers that qualify for recognition. 

Zero Waste Connection

NEWMOA has launched a professional network of zero waste program managers and staff from federal, state, and local
programs and independent experts that support these programs. 

 The Network:

• Promotes pollution prevention and sustainable consumption as the preferred methods of achieving zero waste goals
• Provides forums for zero waste professionals to share information on program development and implementation
• Fosters innovation through the exchange of ideas in real time
• Increases the adoption of practices among practitioners
• Increases awareness of opportunities and resources
• Elevates the profile of zero waste programs

Become a network member so you can join the conversation.

Mercury Product Labeling  

The IMERC Labeling Workgroup has been busy over the last few months, reviewing applications for alternative labeling plans for mercury-added products, particularly lamps. These discussions resulted in the Workgroup approving an alternative label to conform with a new Federal Trade Commission (FTC)-mandated label for screw-based compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). These types of lamps are used mainly by consumers, and the Workgroup is pleased that the product label will clearly indicate that mercury is in the bulb and it requires proper disposal. The Workgroup will continue its review of applications throughout the winter and spring.

NEWMOA staff has updated the IMERC webpages to include more detailed information about the standard labeling requirements and the process for manufacturers to submit alternative labeling.