From waste to sustainable materials management: Three case studies of the transition journey. (March 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Silva, Angie; Rosano, Michele; Stocker, Laura; Gorissen, Leen
• Is Part Of: Waste management. Volume 61(2017)
• Page Start: 547
• Page End: 557
• Publication Date: 2017-03
• Subjects: 10YFP on SCP Rio 20+ 10-year framework of programmes on sustainable consumption and production -- 3R's reduce, reuse, and recycle -- CE circular economy -- CR's circulative resources -- EEA the European Environment Agency -- EPR extended producer responsibility -- EU European Union -- GDP gross domestic product -- KPIs key performance indicators -- MFA material flow accounts -- MOEJ Ministry of Environment, Japan -- MSW municipal solid waste -- NGOs non-governmental organisations -- OECD organisation for economic co-operation and development -- OVAM public waste agency for Flanders -- SMM sustainable materials management -- SRMs secondary raw materials -- SMCS fundamental plan for establishing a sound material-cycle' society -- TM transition management -- UNEP United Nations environmental programme -- ZW zero waste; Zero waste -- Materials -- Transitions -- Policy -- Governance -- Circular economy -- Case studies; Hazardous wastes -- Periodicals; Refuse and refuse disposal -- Periodicals; 363.728
• DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2016.11.038
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0956-053X

Abstract

Highlights: Comparatively explores and analyses three case studies implementing enhanced waste management programs. Provides insights into innovative processes and governance frameworks emerging in this space. Discusses the lessons and outcomes of each case study including where improvements are needed. Concludes with future considerations in the transition from waste to materials management policy. Abstract: Waste policy is increasingly moving on from the 'prevention of waste' to a 'sustainable materials policy' focused agenda recognising individual wastes as a resource. In order to comparatively analyse policy developments in enhanced waste management, three case studies were selected; San Francisco's Zero Waste Program, Flanders's Sustainable Materials Management Initiative and Japan's Sound Material-Cycle Society Plan . These case studies were chosen as an opportunity to investigate the variety of leading approaches, governance structures, and enhanced waste policy outcomes, emerging globally. This paper concludes that the current transitional state of waste management across the world, is only in the first leg of the journey towards Circular Economy closed loop production models of waste as a resource material. It is suggested that further development in government policy, planning and behaviour change is required. A focus on material policy and incorporating multiple front runners across industry and knowledge institutions are offered as potential directions in the movement away from end-pipe land-fill solutions.