Is there a requirement for local jurisdictions to enforce the regulation?

No, the regulation does not require jurisdiction enforcement.

Primary Goal

The objective is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 5 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, which equates to roughly an additional 2 to 3 million tons of currently disposed commercial solid waste being recycled by 2020 and thereafter. This is considered a modest goal based on current recycling trends. It is anticipated that with the built-in flexibility, enough businesses, including multi-family dwellings, will start new recycling programs and/or expand upon existing programs to meet the greenhouse gas emission reduction goal.

Approach Options

Jurisdictions can choose to implement some type of local mandatory commercial recycling program to enforce business compliance. Approaches might include:

  • Requiring businesses to participate in the recycling services that are already available in their city or county
  • Requiring businesses to use a mixed waste processing facility
  • Implementing a mandatory commercial recycling ordinance or policy

Programs

In terms of overall policy and program design, mandatory commercial recycling programs can vary substantially. For example, the types and sizes of businesses and industry can vary, as can the amount and types of material generated per week, etc. Those regulated may include the hauler, business generators, or both. Some programs target specific business materials for recycling while others do not specify.

The methods for monitoring and determining compliance and enforcing the ordinance can differ greatly depending upon a jurisdiction’s resources, hauler arrangement, etc. The regulation is designed to offer as much flexibility as possible while still keeping on target to meet the greenhouse gas emission reduction goal.

Show All Answers

1. Is there a requirement for local jurisdictions to enforce the regulation?
2. Is there an enforcement component for any entity in the regulation?
3. Do we need to take some enforcement action against the businesses to maintain the jurisdiction’s compliance with the regulation?
4. Will local jurisdictions be required to fine customers for not participating in the program?
5. If haulers are not a regulated party, how can jurisdictions and businesses be held accountable if the haulers are not required to provide services and/or report out to the jurisdictions?
6. In a multi-family property does the tenant, property owner, or jurisdiction receive the enforcement action if regulations aren't followed by tenants?