Major
Business Administration (General)
Advisor
Donna Gamache-Griffiths
Advisor Department
Global Business
Date
5-2024
Keywords
Here are six keywords for the project: Rhode Island waste disposal; Central Landfill; recycling challenges; methane re-purposing; business waste management; environmental sustainability.
Abstract
Preserving natural resources and caring for the environment are significant in many communities today. As environmental conditions become more concerning, effective waste management practices become more critical. This project delves deep into Rhode Island's waste system, focusing on the state's only waste public management facility, the Central Landfill in Johnston. The research goal is to learn about existing practices, understand why other available options for remediation and recycling are not utilized, and determine the local impediments to greater sustainability. Reviewing the Rhode Island General Laws and the Department of Environmental Management's regulations provided an understanding of the legal framework for our state's environmental activities. An in-person tour of the Central Landfill and a discussion with management and workers highlighted the operational challenges of successful sustainability. Crucial to this work is the compliance of individual cities and towns. To that end, the research looked at North Kingstown's recycling and trash disposal policies and practices, followed by conversations with local transfer station directors and workers as well as research conducted on the town website. Data from the Rhode Island Resource Recovery website, academic journals, comparisons with other state systems, and the legislative history of our current laws provided additional insights into our state's waste management situation. The research has shown that the most significant impediment to sustainability is the municipal level's need for more participation by individuals and businesses. An incentive-based profit-sharing structure between the Central Landfill and individual municipalities could help remediate this situation. This structure should be coupled with additional education for the public about properly disposing of their trash and recyclables. The next significant consideration is the Landfill's inefficient methane capture system, followed by the need for glass recycling. The environmental impact of an aging landfill impacts everyone in Rhode Island. This project identified impactful ways to improve waste management practices and secure our future.
Streaming Media
Media Format
embedly
