The modifications brought about by SB490 could have significant implications for how Maryland handles recycling and waste management. By formalizing construction and demolition debris as recyclable materials, it opens new channels for recycling businesses and increases the responsibility of construction firms to manage their waste more sustainably. This is expected to reduce landfill waste and promote environmental sustainability by ensuring that more materials are reused in the marketplace rather than disposed of.
Summary
Senate Bill 490 seeks to amend the Maryland Recycling Act by revising the definitions of 'recyclable materials' and 'solid waste stream' to encompass construction and demolition debris. This change is aimed at expanding the types of materials that can be recycled and promoting sustainable waste management practices in the state. By including construction debris such as rubble, scrap materials, and land clearing debris in the recycling framework, the bill aims to encourage the recycling of materials that are often discarded as waste in construction processes.
Contention
While the bill is generally viewed as a positive step towards enhancing recycling efforts, there may be concerns regarding the logistics of implementing such changes. Stakeholders, including industry professionals, could express apprehension over the costs associated with the recycling of construction debris, as well as the feasibility of processing these materials efficiently. Additionally, there might be debates around the regulatory measures needed to effectively enforce the new definitions and ensure compliance with the updated provisions of the Recycling Act.
To amend Section 22-27-2 of the Code of Alabama 1975, the Solid Waste and Recyclable Materials Management Act; to amend the definitions under the act; to define "advanced recycling" and to specify that advanced recycling would not be considered as solid waste disposal, solid waste processing, solid waste management, or incineration; and to define "mill scale and slag" and include the term in the definition of solid waste.
To amend Section 22-27-2 of the Code of Alabama 1975, the Solid Waste and Recyclable Materials Management Act; to amend the definitions under the act; to define "advanced recycling" and to specify that advanced recycling would not be considered as solid waste disposal, solid waste processing, solid waste management, or incineration; and to define "mill scale and slag" and include the term in the definition of solid waste.
Solid waste recycling, advanced recycling defined, conversion of materials back to basis hydrocarbons, not waste disposal or incineration, Sec. 22-27-2 am'd.
Solid waste recycling, advanced recycling defined, conversion of materials back to basis hydrocarbons, not waste disposal or incineration, Sec. 22-27-2 am'd.