The Arkansas Department of Energy and Environment - Division of Environmental Quality (“DEQ”) issued a January 8th news release announcing that it will hold stakeholder meetings across Arkansas:
…for better understanding of public perception on the state of solid waste management.
The stated objectives in undertaking this initiative include:
- Update the Statewide Solid Waste Management Plan.
- Create guidelines for tracking and reporting recycling data.
- Provide education and outreach to make recycling reporting more consistent.
The development/update of the Statewide Solid Waste Management Plan is mandated by Arkansas law. See Ark. Code Ann. § 8-6-1902. As DEQ notes, the mandate includes the establishment of minimum requirements for Regional Solid Waste Management Plans.
The State’s Regional Solid Waste Management Boards, business, industry, education, and local governments have typically participated in the development/update of this document.
DEQ describes this as a three-year project. Further, the agency cites a $531,690 Solid Waste Infrastructure and Recycling grant that has made this initiative possible.
Arkansas Department of Energy and Environment Secretary Shane Khoury is quoted as stating:
...“With new technologies and new products, it is imperative to ensure DEQ’s and regional solid waste management board’s plans are adequately supporting Arkansas’ needs,”…
ADEQ Director Bailey Taylor notes:
…“Through this project, we have the opportunity to hear from the regional solid waste management districts, local governments, industry, and public to develop effective and practical guidelines for tracking and reporting necessary for the SSWMP,”…
The stakeholder meetings are scheduled for January through August 2025. Dates and locations will be announced. In addition, the opportunity to participate in an online survey is provided.
A link to the information on the stakeholder meetings can be found here.
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