Maryland Senate Bill SB490

Maryland 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/27/22
• Refer: 1/27/22

Caption

Maryland Recycling Act - Recyclable Materials and Solid Waste Stream - Alteration

Impact

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.