Solid waste recycling, advanced recycling defined, conversion of materials back to basis hydrocarbons, not waste disposal or incineration, Sec. 22-27-2 am'd.
Impact
The enactment of SB131 would change how solid waste is defined and managed in Alabama. By exempting advanced recycling processes from existing classifications of waste disposal, the bill facilitates a new avenue for waste conversion that supporters assert could boost recycling efforts and result in more sustainable waste management practices. This change is expected to encourage investment in advanced recycling facilities, potentially leading to job creation and economic growth within the state. On the other hand, this shift may raise concerns also regarding oversight and the environmental implications of such recycling processes, given that some technologies could release pollutants if not properly managed.
Summary
Bill SB131 proposes significant modifications to the existing Solid Waste and Recyclable Materials Management Act in Alabama. It aims to introduce a new definition of 'advanced recycling', characterizing it as a manufacturing process that converts post-use materials, primarily plastics, into basic hydrocarbon raw materials. This novel method utilizes various technologies such as pyrolysis and gasification, which marks a substantial shift in waste management practices in the state. SB131 specifies that materials processed through these advanced recycling techniques would not be classified as solid waste disposal or incineration, altering how these processes are regulated under state law.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding SB131 include the adequacy of regulatory frameworks to monitor advanced recycling facilities. Critics are concerned that the exemption from classification as waste disposal could lead to insufficient environmental protections, allowing for practices that might harm public health or the environment. Additionally, opponents may argue that advanced recycling technologies, while innovative, still require robust oversight to ensure they do not contribute to pollution. The debate underscores the tension between encouraging new recycling technologies and maintaining rigorous environmental safeguards.
Recycling; Department of Environmental Management required to issue credits; Department of Revenue required to accept credits in lieu of fees; civil penalties established
Tax credits, authorizes ADEM to issue tax credits to persons using certain recyclable materials, sale and trade of recycle tax credits, civil penalties for fraud.
Evaluation of economic development tax incentives, a sales and use tax exemption for materials used to construct or expand a coal processing facility that utilizes coal as a feedstock, and severance and sales and use tax exemptions for coal used in a coal processing facility that utilizes coal as a feedstock; and to provide an effective date.
Adds advanced recycling as a definition for refuse disposal. Adds the advanced recycling facility that means a facility that receives, stores and converts post-use polymers and recovered feedstocks using advanced recycling.