Waste Management Inc. acquires Greenstar

Major player in U.S. recycling manages 1.5 million tons of recyclables a year.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130131/NEWS02/130139981

E-Scrap News Magazine: Certification scorecard

## Certification scorecard


With the roster of companies attaining third-party certifications or audits continuing to grow, _E-Scrap News_ has compiled a round-up of the firms announcing certification this past week.

* **Esco Processing and Recycling LLC's** facility in Rogers, Arkansas is now R2 certified. The facility is already certified to e-Stewards and ISO 14001.
* **Reclamere, Inc.'s** facility in Tyrone, Pennsylvania is now R2 and ISO 14001 certified.
* **Best Shredding** of Calgary, Alberta; **Commercial Records Center** of El Paso, Texas; **Data Shredding Services of Texas** of Houston; **LionCage** of Kew Gardens, New York; **Secureshred** of Farmingdale, New York; **Shredding Network LLC** of Wickliffe, Ohio; **Shred Guard** of Saint John, New Brunswick; and **South Bay Document Destruction** of Gardena, California have either achieved or renewed their NAID Certification for Physical Destruction of Hard Drives.
* Also, **Arrow-Asset Recovery** of St. Paul, Minnesota; **Maxxum, Inc.** of Rush City, Minnesota; **Secure e-Cycle** of Lenexa, Kansas; **Supply-Chain Services** of Lombard, Illinois and **WeRecycle! LLC** of Meriden, Connecticut have either achieved or renewed their NAID Certification for Computer Hard Drive Sanitization and Physical Destruction of Hard Drives.

Has your firm recently completed a CHWMEG audit or an ISO 9001, ISO 14001, R2, RIOS or e-Stewards certification? Email [henry@resource-recycling.com](mailto:henry@resource-recycling.com) to be included in this section and in _E-Scrap News_' quarterly directory.

[ ](http://173.203.200.22/)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3470

E-Scrap News Magazine: Cell phone unlocking ban shakes up recycling industry

## Cell phone unlocking ban shakes up recycling industry


_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

The Librarian of Congress has determined it is now illegal to unlock mobile phones, leaving many in the burgeoning mobile device refurbishment business scrambling to determine how the law will affect their business.

The Library of Congress oversees U.S. copyright law, and as of Jan. 26 it now interprets unlocking any carrier-subsidized wireless devices as a violation of the 1998 [Digital Millennium Copyright Act](http://www.copyright.gov/fedreg/2012/77fr65260.pdf), which bans technologies that violate copyright protections. Unlocking devices in order to work with other wireless carriers was previously legal, thanks to a specific exemption in the DMCA, which has been allowed to expire by the LOC.

Violators could face stiff penalties if caught. Criminal penalties include $500,000 and up to five years in prison for a first offense, doubling for subsequent offenses. Defendants in civil cases could pay $2,500 per unlocked device in their possession.

A requested continuation of the exemption was denied last year in an attempt to stop the resale of carrier-subsidized phones. OEMs, as well as carriers such as Verizon or AT&T can still sell unlocked devices at full price, but unlocking a subsidized phone without carrier consent is now forbidden under this new interpretation of the DMCA, regardless of whether that phone is still tied to a wireless contract.

"Because these exemptions weren't approved, it potentially opens up many individuals and businesses to litigation, although honestly, this is a very controversial decision and we still don't know exactly what effect it will have," explains Rebecca Jeschke, digital rights analyst with the Electronic Frontier Foundation. "The next time there will be an opportunity to re-add the exemption will be in 2015, so hopefully people will make their voice heard and it will be included."

One of the key selling points of refurbished phones is the ability to use them unlocked on budget and no-contract carriers and the decision caught some in the mobile refurbishment and resale community off-guard.

"We're still reading through the language to try and determine how it affects us, but we don't see a problem so far. We receive unlock codes for our phones from carriers," says ReCellular CEO Stephen Manning. "Of course, when they write these types of laws, they don't always think of the unintended consequences, so it's something we're going to continue to monitor."

[ ](http://www.t3toner.com/Escrap.cfm)

[ ](http://eriez.com/)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3474

Resource Recycling Magazine: Report finds billions in a recycling and reuse economy

## Report finds billions in a recycling and reuse economy

_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

A new report makes the case that significant economic benefits could be reaped by adopting a "circular economy."

The [report](http://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/business/reports/ce2013) from the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, a charitable organization that seeks to integrate recycling and reuse into manufacturing and consumption, found that, globally, businesses and consumers could see benefits as high as $700 billion per year by adopting a circular economy. The economy could also benefit from land productivity and supply chain stability according to the report, which features an analysis from consulting from McKinsey & Co.

The report focuses on specific product categories that represent 80 percent of the total consumer goods market by value. It contains information on food, beverages, textiles and packaging, in addition to a series of concrete examples of businesses that derive competitive advantage from making better use of their material flows.

[ ](http://www.sdslogistics.com/quick-quote?src=forlifebannerrecycling)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3459

E-Scrap News Magazine: Plastics-to-oil firm settles SEC lawsuit

## Plastics-to-oil firm settles SEC lawsuit


_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

Plastic-to-oil conversion firm JBI has announced it has [settled](http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/JBI-Inc-Reaches-Settlement-With-the-SEC-Awaits-Court-Approval-OTCQB-JBII-1748910.htm) a lawsuit with the Federal Securities and Exchange Commission.

The SEC had alleged in its year-old lawsuit that the company violated federal anti-fraud rules when it restated its September 30, 2009 through December 31, 2009 financial statements. As part of the proposed settlement, JBI will pay a civil penalty of $150,000, and its former CEO, John Bordynuik, will pay $110,000. Bordynuik is also barred from any officer or director positions with the company for five years. Since stepping down as company head in May 2012, Bordynuik has served as chief of technology.

Bordynuik was unavailable for comment.

[ ](http://www.plasticsrecycling.com/)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3464

Resource Recycling Magazine: Book your hotel at the Plastics Recycling Conference

## Book your hotel at the Plastics Recycling Conference

The Plastics Recycling Conference is proud to have chosen the newly renovated Sheraton New Orleans Hotel located in the heart of the Big Easy -- New Orleans, Louisiana. Conference attendees will receive a conference room rate of $189 plus taxes for nights booked over the conference dates of March 18-21, based on availability.

**Rooms must be booked by Feb. 25**. For those who want to come earlier than March 18 or stay longer than March 21 to enjoy the sights and sounds of New Orleans, nights may be booked based on the hotel's prevailing rate and availability. The easiest way to book your hotel rooms is through the conference [website](https://www.starwoodmeeting.com/StarGroupsWeb/booking/reservation?id=1210175576&key=3734B).

**If you are also attending GPEC, please book your hotel for GPEC dates of March 20-21** [here](https://www.starwoodmeeting.com/StarGroupsWeb/booking/reservation?id=1210175574&key=ED7D9). You will not need to move actual hotel rooms if staying for both conferences, but you may need to have two separate hotel reservations to get the group rate at both conferences.

[ ](http://www.plasticsrecycling.com/)

[ ](http://www.sperecycling.org/)

**_To return to the Resource Recycling newsletter, click [here](http://www.resource-recycling.com/images/e-newsletterimages/RRe-news013113.html). _**

URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3455

E-Scrap News Magazine: Asia key to NAID growth

## Asia key to NAID growth


_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

The National Association for Information Destruction has announced growth numbers for 2012.

NAID says that the organization added 159 new member locations last year, and that 177 current member locations became certified to NAID AAA, with a new international push supplementing continued strong data security interest in the U.S. Approximately 40 percent of these new member locations handle electronics.

These figures are down from previous years, however. In 2011, the organization added 251 member locations, compared to 264 in 2010 and 201 in 2009. NAID attributed this slowdown in the growth of new member locations to rapid interest in data security over the last several years, and the transition to a more mature data security industry.

This assessment is at the core of NAID's ambitious expansion plans. The organization's NAID-Asia division held its first conference in 2012 and the parent organization expects high demand for IT asset management and data destruction services in China and East Asia will be a strong driver of future growth.

[ ](http://mrpcompany.com/)

[ ](http://www.sdslogistics.com/quick-quote?src=drayescrap)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3472

Resource Recycling Magazine: _Plastics Recycling 2013_: Converting plastics to wax

## _Plastics Recycling 2013_: Converting plastics to wax

GreenMantra Technologies has developed an innovative system to convert plastics into industrial waxes, lubricants and fuels. Just this past year they worked with Vancouver, British Columbia to transform difficult-to-recycle plastic waste into asphalt mix. This informative and comprehensive technical presentation from Vice President of Operations, Brandon Moffatt, will highlight the technology itself, the range of feedstocks, future plans and the market for synthetic wax -- including a detailed examination of wax usage in the asphalt market.

Don't be left behind -- get your facts straight from the source at the 2013 Plastics Recycling Conference, which will be held **March 19-20 in New Orleans**. For more information, visit [www.plasticsrecycling.com](http://www.plasticsrecycling.com/).

And, after the conference, stick around for the **Global Plastics Environmental Conference's (GPEC)** "The Latest Need to Know: From Recycling to Sustainability of Plastics." GPEC's conference will be held right after the Plastics Recycling Conference, March 20-22 at the same great location, the Sheraton New Orleans, right next to the Crescent City's famed French Quarter. Don't miss out on these two terrific events.

[ ](http://www.plasticsrecycling.com/)

[ ](http://www.sperecycling.org/)

**_To return to the Resource Recycling newsletter, click [here](http://www.resource-recycling.com/images/e-newsletterimages/RRe-news013113.html). _**

URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3460

E-Scrap News Magazine: Microsoft sues recycling firm

## Microsoft sues recycling firm


_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

Microsoft alleges a recycling company willfully advertised and sold refurbished computers with unlicensed copies of its software.

In the suit filed Jan. 25 against Phoenix-based E-Waste Harvesters, Inc., Microsoft says it repeatedly warned the company against using its products or trademarks that it has not authorized. Specifically, the software giant says the company advertised and sold computers with Microsoft Windows and Office software, without the necessary licenses to do so.

Microsoft has asked that E-Waste Harvesters halt its alleged infringement and has requested the seizure of allegedly infringing merchandise. Microsoft has also asked that the company pay damages covering profits from the allegedly infringing computers, as well as legal fees.

A specific timeframe for when the case might be resolved is unknown, but a spokesman for E-Waste Harvesters believes it will be resolved soon.

"The matter is in litigation, but E-Waste Harvesters is expecting to resolve this issue quickly, and we hope to have some good news for you in the next several weeks," said Steve Forbes, E-Waste Harvesters VP of Contract Administration.

Microsoft refused to comment on pending litigation.

[ ](http://www.clovertech.com)

[ ](http://e-stewards.org/)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3473

Resource Recycling Magazine: Export watch

## Export watch

_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

The volume of plastic scrap exported in November, at 367.74 million pounds, dropped by 8.4 percent from its November figure. When matched against its November 2011 position, however, the volume of exports was up by 1.4 percent.

The weighted price of recovered plastic exports in November, at 20.3 cents per pound, was essentially flat, up just 0.6 percent from its October 2012 standing. And when compared to its year-over-year (YOY) level the price was down by 8.3 percent.

Through November, at 4.06 billion pounds, the volume of recovered plastics exported was down 6.5 percent through the same period in 2011. At 21.20 cents per pound, the average price through November 2012 was down, as well, by 10.8 percent from its 2011 year-to-date (YTD) standing.

As for other exported materials, recovered paper exports YTD experienced a 5.0 percent YOY decrease, to 18.21 million metric tons. At $169 per metric ton, the weighted average price of exported recovered paper in November was down 6.1 percent when compared to its November 2011 mark.

Regarding ferrous scrap, the 19.78 million metric tons exported through November resulted in a 12.8 percent YOY decrease. At $443 per metric ton the weighted average price of exported ferrous scrap was also down, by 5.5 percent.

Lastly, the 4.17 billion pounds of aluminum scrap exported through November equated to a small 3.9 percent YOY decrease. And, at 78 cents per pound, the average price of exported aluminum scrap in November was down 10.3 percent when compared to its November 2011 standing.

[ ](http://www.rotochopper.com/)

**_To return to the Resource Recycling newsletter, click [here](http://www.resource-recycling.com/images/e-newsletterimages/RRe-news013113.html). _**

URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3458

E-Scrap News Magazine: Canon products now EPEAT certified

## Canon products now EPEAT certified


_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

Canon U.S.A., Inc. has [announced](http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/about_canon?pageKeyCode=pressreldetail&docId=0901e024807c222a) that it is among the first manufacturers with qualifying products in the new imaging equipment category of EPEAT, a global registry for environmentally friendly electronics.

All eight models of Canon's imageRUNNER ADVANCE C5200 and imageRUNNER ADVANCE 4000 Series of multifunction devices have received an EPEAT Gold rating, the highest level of registration.

To be added to the EPEAT registry, an imaging device must meet at least [33 required environmental performance criteria](http://www.epeat.net/resources/criteria-verification/imaging-equipment-protocols/). Products may achieve higher ratings by meeting some or all of 26 additional optional criteria. Gold qualification signifies that a product meets all required criteria and at least 75 percent of optional criteria. The rating criteria were developed during a four-year stakeholder consensus process that involved hundreds of representatives from the environmental, research, governmental and manufacturing sectors. The EPEAT registry is used by governments, businesses and individuals worldwide to help them choose more environmentally friendly devices.

[ ](http://www.jtenv.com/r2.cfm)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3471

E-Scrap News Magazine: NewsBits

## NewsBits


The Electronic Manufacturers Recycling Management Company (MRM) has [partnered](http://recyclingmanager.com/behind-mrm/makor-solutions-overview) with Makor Solutions to **automate its e-scrap recycling system** across its network of over 1,700 sites. Makor's software will be deployed to help manage e-scrap inventories and coordinate between facilities.

The American Chemical Society Science & the Congress Project is hosting a forum on how to **realize the economic benefits of recycling e-scrap**. "Turning E-Waste into Green" will be held Feb. 13 at noon in Washington D.C. More details are available [here](http://www.congressplus.com/events/index.cfm?action=Event_Page&eventcode=2LbpJm&bypass=true?ref=tw).

Keep America Beautiful and the College & University Recycling Coalition have announced a Feb. 14 **webinar focused on best practices for e-scrap program expansion**. The free webinar will run from 1:00 to 2:00 PM EST. More information is available [here](http://www.curc3r.org/82-curc/webinars/140-ewaste-recycling-program-expansion).

**The City of Napa, California is now an e-Stewards Enterprise member**, joining other Californian cities of San Francisco, San Jose and Placentia, as well as Seattle, Washington, in pledging to only use e-Stewards certified processors in managing their used electronics.

[ ](http://Ousei.jp)

[ ](https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2523028787997809152)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3469

Resource Recycling Magazine: Unilever increases manufacturing waste diversion

## Unilever increases manufacturing waste diversion

_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

Unilever, a maker of household products, has announced that it has made strides in reducing waste at its manufacturing facilities.

According to the company, which is based in the U.K. and the Netherlands, more than half of its factories achieved the goal of sending no waste to landfill in 2012.

Already, factories owned by Unilever in 18 countries send no waste to landfill. Currently, over 130 Unilever factories across the world send no non-hazardous waste to landfill.

Unilever cut back on the waste it generates by reducing, reusing and recycling refuse generated in its factories. Unilever spokesperson Cheryl Fernandes said that all of the company's manufacturing facilities that divert non-hazardous waste from landfills send any non-recyclable waste to incinerators. She also noted that the company's definition of zero waste to landfill includes both recycling and incineration for energy recovery.

Under its [Sustainable Living Plan](http://www.unilever.com/sustainable-living/), the company intends to reduce the total waste it sends to landfill to 2008 levels by 2020. Unilever plans to expand on that target by diverting 100 percent of any non-hazardous waste generated at 252 of its factories across the world by 2015.

A statement from the company notes that 130 Unilever sites that have reached zero waste to landfill represents a cost savings of 70 million Euros ($94 million) annually without the need for capital expenditure. Additionally, the company points out that its business had continued to grow while making efforts to reduce waste.

[ ](https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2523028787997809152)

**_To return to the Resource Recycling newsletter, click [here](http://www.resource-recycling.com/images/e-newsletterimages/RRe-news013113.html). _**

URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3456

Resource Recycling Magazine: KAB, Coke bin grant program continues

## KAB, Coke bin grant program continues

_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

Keep America Beautiful and The Coca-Foundation are accepting applications for a program designed to support recycling across the country by helping local organizations receive collection bins.

The program is funded through a $300,000 grant from the Coca-Cola Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the beverage giant. Since 2010 it has distributed more than 29,000 recycling bins to 300 organizations reaching 4.3 million people.

As part of the program, the bins are used by local organizations to provide public space recycling infrastructure. Eligible recipients for the public space grant include government agencies, civic organizations, schools and nonprofit groups. All colleges and universities will be eligible for the college-specific grant.

Grant applications will be available online through March 4. The bin grant program will include college and university focused grants as well as the traditional public space recycling bin grants. All interested parties can visit [bingrant.org](http://bingrant.org/) to apply.

[ ](http://www.ousei.jp/)

**_To return to the Resource Recycling newsletter, click [here](http://www.resource-recycling.com/images/e-newsletterimages/RRe-news013113.html). _**

URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3457

Resource Recycling Magazine: NewsBits

## NewsBits

_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

Overall shipments of recyclable fiber from U.S. baling facilities declined last year. On the domestic front, [the American Forest & Paper Association reports](http://www.afandpa.org/media/news) that the industry **consumption of recovered paper fell 3 percent in 2012**. At the same time, U.S. exports of recyclable paper and paperboard dipped last year by nearly 5 percent to about 22 million tons.

Eugene, Oregon-based **Bulk Handling Systems** [has acquired](http://bulkhandlingsystems.com/bhs-acquires-nihot-recycling-technology-bv/) **Nihot Recycling Technology BV**, an Amsterdam-based company that designs and manufactures air sorting and separation equipment for the solid waste and recycling industries.

A state agency in **North Carolina** has launched a new campaign to encourage restaurants and individuals to **recycle oyster shells** instead of tossing them out, reports [_The News & Observer_](http://www.newsobserver.com/2013/01/24/2631076/nc-recycling-program-returns-oyster.html). The shells, which are banned from landfills in the state, are collected through the program and used to create habitats for oysters.

The **EPS Industry Alliance**, a group that seeks to help consumer recycle expanded polystyrene, has introduced a new [tool](http://www.epspackaging.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=32&Itemid=33) on its [website](http://www.epspackaging.org/) that helps consumers and businesses locate a facility where they can drop off the material. The **EPS Reuse and Recycling Map uses a Google map** that is designed to be intuitive and easy to use.

[ ](http://www.plasticsrecycling.com/)

**_To return to the Resource Recycling newsletter, click [here](http://www.resource-recycling.com/images/e-newsletterimages/RRe-news013113.html). _**

URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3454

Resource Recycling Magazine: Groups oppose radioactive scrap metal proposal

## Groups oppose radioactive scrap metal proposal

_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

A proposal from the U.S. Department of Energy that would allow scrap metal from government nuclear sites to be recovered for recycling is drawing fire from critics who worry that the public will be exposed to contaminated consumer goods.

The DOE is [currently soliciting feedback on a proposal](http://energy.gov/nepa/downloads/ea-1919-notice-availability-draft-programmatic-environmental-assessment) to recover scrap metal from radiological areas operated by the department.

[_The Wall Street Journal_](http://online.wsj.com/article_email/SB10001424127887323783704578246051395941028-lMyQjAxMTAzMDIwOTEyNDkyWj.html?mod=wsj_valettop_email) (paywall) reports that the proposal is in line with department policy of reusing materials whenever possible, and 14,000 tons of metal could be initially released for recycling. The sale of the metal, which would originate from research laboratories and nuclear-weapons-related facilities, could bring in $10 million to $40 million annually, the paper reports. The DOE contends that the amount radiological contamination would be negligible, according to the _Journal_.

However, not everyone is comfortable with the idea.

"We are concerned about what could happen in the marketplace if you have to worry about radioactive material possibly being in your eyeglass frames," Thomas Danjczek, president of the Steel Manufacturers Association, a trade group whose members use recovered metals, told the paper. "Why is the government trying to hurt the image of American products?"

Danjczek also told the paper that is difficult and expensive to prevent the comingling of contaminated metals.

"This proposal is unwise, and should be immediately abandoned," wrote Rep. Ed Markey, D-Massachusetts, in a [letter](http://markey.house.gov/sites/markey.house.gov/files/documents/2013-01-11_DOE_RadioActive_ScrapMetal.pdf) to Energy Secretary Steven Chu.

The letter expresses the congressman's "grave concerns" that recycling the metal into consumer products could expose radiation to "pregnant women, children or other vulnerable populations." He also cited an incident a year ago where Bed Bath and Beyond recalled tissue holders made in India that were contaminated with radiation. Additionally, it mentions that one of Chu's predecessors, Bill Richardson, suspended a similar effort in 2000 in response to public concerns.

The Nuclear Information and Resource Service is currently circulating a [petition](http://org2.democracyinaction.org/o/5502/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=12406) against the proposal, saying that if it goes forward it will result in more regulation of radioactive materials from DOE.

"The ban must not be lifted, but should be made permanent and expanded to keep all radioactive waste -- plastic, concrete, soil, asphalt, etc. in addition to all metals -- under control, out of commercial recycling and managed as the deadly hazard it is," wrote Nukewatch's John LaForge in [_Counterpunch_](http://www.counterpunch.org/2013/01/23/nuclear-weapons-waste-in-your-water-bottle-hip-replacement-babys-toys-jungle-gym/).

The public comment period ends Feb. 11.

[ ](http://mrpcompany.com/)

**_To return to the Resource Recycling newsletter, click [here](http://www.resource-recycling.com/images/e-newsletterimages/RRe-news013113.html). _**

URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3461

Golfers tee off to zero waste tournament in Phoenix

As golfers gear up for the first round of the Waste Management Phoenix Open today, the company behind the action is working to ensure the event is environmentally responsible, including being zero waste.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130131/NEWS03/130139986

Marines step up recycling at Camp Lajeune

Programs adds 21 recycling containers to North Carolina base; more are planned

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130131/NEWS02/130139982

Plastic bottles under attack during Super Bowl

In-home soda maker Soda Stream will air 30-ad that 'confronts the beverage industry.'

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130131/NEWS03/130139983

Allentown, Pennsylvania, expands curbside recycling

City announces that it will not pick up milk, juice, broth and similar cartons.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130131/NEWS02/130139985

Waste Management elects new member to board of directors

Waste Management Inc. announced that Victoria Holt, president and CEO of Spartech Corporation, was elected to its Board of Directors this week.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130131/NEWS01/130139987

WRN promotes Kirch to digital manager, hires two interns

Maria Kirch, who has served as Waste & Recycling News' web coordinator since June 2011, has been promoted to digital manager.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130131/NEWS01/130129978

Ecological engineering solves unsafe water problems in Bolivia

Surrounded by mining, the mountainous region of Potosi, Bolivia is plagued by extensive environmental contamination from past and current mining operations. Researchers have discovered a technique to remove pollutants from water that requires minimal labor costs and is powered by nature itself.

URL: http://feeds.sciencedaily.com/~r/sciencedaily/earth_climate/recycling_and_waste/~3/d0hAcHfS-Vs/130130082250.htm

Teamsters end strike against Republic in Memphis

Workers agree to "unconditional return to work"; will be back on the job Thursday

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130130/NEWS01/130139989

Coca-Cola opens 2013 recycling bin grant program

The Coca-Cola Foundation, the philanthropic arm of The Coca-Cola Co., recently began accepting applications for its 2013 Recycling Bin Grant Program.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130130/NEWS03/130139992

CVS to pay $800,000 over waste violations in Connecticut

Company agrees to settlement after violations discovered at seven stores in state.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130130/NEWS08/130139993

Ohio counties see record recycling

The Lawrence-Scioto Solid Waste Management District in southern Ohio reached its highest-ever amount of recycling in 2012.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130130/NEWS02/130139995

Trade association calls for transparency in textile recycling

The Secondary Materials and Recycled Textiles Association (SMART), a trade organization that represents for-profit companies, has called for its Code of Conduct to become an industry standard.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130130/NEWS02/130139994

Hawaii-based Marines gasify their trash

Marines based at a remote camp on the Hawaiian island of Oahu tested a new waste-to-energy system this week that may change the future of military waste management, according to a U.S. Marine Corps press release.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130130/NEWS01/130139999

Recycling rate doubles in Alton, Ill.

Recycling rates in Alton, Ill., have increased significantly since Allied Waste Services began using bigger recycling carts and an automated pickup system, according to The Telegraph.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130130/NEWS02/130139990

Yard waste piles up in Brunswick, Georgia

Pickup of leaves is suffering after city privatized hauling.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130130/NEWS01/130139991

Oregon oil recycler fined for sulfur emissions

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has fined American Recyclers LLC for emissions violations at a Portland, Ore., used oil processing facility.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130130/NEWS02/130139997

A Phoenix in Cincinnati

Work has been under way for almost a month on a $32 million project that will be one of the largest facilities of its kind in the country when completed, Rumpke officials said.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130130/NEWS01/130129909

Republic worker fires shot near picket line in Tennessee

Non-striking employee says he felt threatened and fired shot in air; no one injured.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130130/NEWS06/130139996

Minnesota may enforce law forcing WTE disposal before landfilling

Officials in Minnesota may start enforcing a law which requires haulers to send waste to waste-to-energy facilities before landfilling it.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130130/NEWS08/130139998

New insights into managing our water resources

Understanding how our water catchments react to natural disturbances, may offer hydrologists greater insight into how to manage our water supplies. Key to this, is an understanding of the steady state and why water responds differently in different circumstances.

URL: http://feeds.sciencedaily.com/~r/sciencedaily/earth_climate/recycling_and_waste/~3/h_nSZIi-N1w/130129100245.htm

University cafeteria goes trayless to save energy and food

A new article provides first hard evidence that removing trays from university dining halls nets big energy savings as well as a 32 percent reduction in food waste.

URL: http://feeds.sciencedaily.com/~r/sciencedaily/earth_climate/recycling_and_waste/~3/myiJafKydkE/130129144819.htm

With taxes higher, insiders expect M&A lull in early '13

This year's federal capital gains tax increase will have a short-term impact on deal making in the solid waste management industry, according to two people with close ties to the business.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130129/NEWS01/130129913

International Paper reports fourth quarter earnings

International Paper, a major paper recycler and producer, reported fourth quarter 2012 earnings of $235 million, or 53 cents per share.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130129/NEWS04/130129917

Waste Management, Renton, Washington, reach settlement over 2012 strike

Residential customers to get $10 credit, commercial customers $50.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130129/NEWS01/130129912

Pennsylvania community launches textile recycling program

The Swarthmore Borough of Pennsylvania, working with textile recycler Community Recycling, started a program for residents to recycle clothes, shoes, bags and belts.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130129/NEWS02/130129915

Microsoft sues e-waste company, accusing it of selling illegal software

The Microsoft Corporation is suing an e-waste recycling company out of Phoenix on multiple counts, for allegedly selling and distributing unauthorized copies of Microsoft software, according to the case.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130129/NEWS02/130129916

RockTenn elects new president and COO

RockTenn, a paper recycling and packaging company, has elected Steven Voorhees as president and chief operating officer.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130129/NEWS02/130129918

'Game changer': Solid waste district in Ohio eyes new sources of revenue

Ronald J. Mills believes what's happening in Central Ohio will help change the course of solid waste management history.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130129/NEWS01/130129919

Republic Services workers strike in Memphis area

Company says it will have 160 replacement workers covering 130 routes.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130128/NEWS01/130129921

Groundwater depletion linked to climate change

Climate change may be exacerbating many countries' experience of water stress, according to new research. Experts explain how several human-driven factors, if not rectified, will combine with climate change to significantly reduce useable groundwater availability for agriculture globally.

URL: http://feeds.sciencedaily.com/~r/sciencedaily/earth_climate/recycling_and_waste/~3/3rsJJUgFddY/130128104747.htm

Update: Dozens arrested in alleged mafia control of soild waste in NYC area

A total of 32 people charged in a case handled by the FBI and Westchester County (N.Y.) Police Department.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130128/NEWS01/130129926

Waste Management, Tampa in negotiations regarding overpayment

Tampa likely overpaid Waste Management by nearly $1 million over five years.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130128/NEWS01/130129927

CPIA studies plastics-to-fuel process

Burning plastics for fuel is occasionally posited as an untapped resource. Now a study carried out for the Canadian Plastics Industry Association has put some numbers to such a proposal.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130128/NEWS02/130129928

Bulk Handling Systems acquires Nihot Recycling Technology

BHS buys Amsterdam-based company that's a leader in air-separation technology for waste, recycling uses.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130128/NEWS02/130129929

Sims Recycling Solutions to host recycling event with San Jose Sharks

Sims Recycling Solutions is working with the San Jose Sharks to promote electronics recycling in the community.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130128/NEWS02/130129924

Jamaica school to reuse surplus furniture from Massachusetts

A Massachusetts school has sent more than 1,100 pieces of surplus furniture and equipment to furnish a sister school in Jamaica through a program run by IRN - The Recycling Network.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130128/NEWS03/130129925

15 Long Island Rail Road workers arrested in scrap scheme

Officials say they stole and sold more than $250,000 in copper

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130128/NEWS06/130129930

'Recycling equals jobs'

Across the country, budgets are still being squeezed and job growth in the waste industry is stagnant, but there are areas of slight growth.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130128/NEWS01/130129983

Cities affect temperatures for thousands of miles

Even if you live more than 1,000 miles from the nearest large city, it could be affecting your weather. New research shows that the heat generated by everyday activities in metropolitan areas influences major atmospheric systems, raising and lowering temperatures over thousands of miles.

URL: http://feeds.sciencedaily.com/~r/sciencedaily/earth_climate/recycling_and_waste/~3/18ztHxt5eMM/130127134210.htm

Plastics Recycling Update Magazine: Scrap plastic to 3-D printer stock

## Scrap plastic to 3-D printer stock


_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

The future is coming to desktops and can be fueled by empty soda and milk bottles, among other scrap plastics.

If you paid any attention to the recent Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, you likely read about TVs that were four times more high-definition than the one in your living room, tablet computers of all shapes and sizes -- and the coming of the consumer-grade 3-D printer. That is to say, a printer that can print out 3-D objects instead of merely putting images of said objects on two-dimensional paper.

While the feedstock for all 3-D printers is not the same, the vast majority of these printers use a plastic resin of some kind, and new filament feedstock for these printers is predictably expensive. Which is where recycling comes in. The [Filabot Personal Filament Maker](http://filabot.com/how_to.php) is an attempt to both make that filament more affordable and also to make 3-D printing, itself, more sustainable.

The [Kickstarter](http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/rocknail/filabot-plastic-filament-maker)-funded project's flagship machine, the Filabot Reclaimer, is an open-source hardware kit that is, essentially, a desktop plastics recycling plant -- grinding and extruding scrap plastic of different types. According to Tyler McNaney, the project organizer, the Filabot [can process](http://filabot.com/how_to.php) not just the aforementioned soda bottles (PET) and milk jugs (HDPE), but ABS, LDPE,nylon-101 and even PLA.

Along with the grinding and extruding assemblies, the machine comes with a spooling assembly with two different types of dies, so it can automatically spool different sizes (3mm and 1.75mm) of filament to be used in future 3-D printing. The Filabot also has controllable temperature settings to be able to handle the different meltpoints of the various resins.

McNaney's Kickstarter campaign for the machines raised over $30,000 and the first batch of Filabot orders are currently being filled. While McNaney has not said what the next step for the project is, the tech-inclined among us can build their own mini recycling plant, as McNaney has posted all [instructions](http://filabot.com/how_to.php) for the open-source project online.

[ ](http://www.sperecycling.org/)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3450

Plastics Recycling Update Magazine: Coalition of companies tackles labels

## Coalition of companies tackles labels


_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

A coalition of 30 companies led by Eastman Chemical Co. has formed to address recycling issues relating to full-wrap labels on PET bottles.

The [Full-Wrap Label Consortium](http://www.eastman.com/Company/News_Center/2013/Pages/Full_wrap_Label_Consortium_Addresses_PET_Plastic_Recycle_Stream_Issues.aspx) will specifically focus on creating solutions to improve the recyclability of PET bottles with full-wrap labels, which the group says can create problems during the recycling process. While the group acknowledges there are some PET processors that can successfully accommodate the labels, it says many more are struggling.

At its first meetings last August and November, the group discussed several possible solutions, including floatable labels, label perforation to aid in removal, delabeling equipment, and greater consumer preparation of bottles for recycling. At an upcoming meeting in February, the group is expected to assess the viability of a potential combination of these solutions.

The group does not have a website, but interested parties are encouraged to contact Holli Whitt, market development manager at Eastman Chemical at [hwhitt@eastman.com](mailto:hwhitt@eastman.com).

[ ](http://www.herboldusa.net/pru)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3453

Plastics Recycling Update Magazine: Canada crunches the numbers on plastics-to-fuel

## Canada crunches the numbers on plastics-to-fuel


_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

If all the non-recycled plastics that are currently put into Canadian landfills each year were instead converted to energy using currently available technologies, this action would generate enough fuel for over 600,000 automobiles annually. That's the conclusion of new research carried out on behalf of the Canadian Plastics Industry Association.

The [study](http://www.plastics.ca/_files/file.php?fileid=newsSvhkIDlPbA&filename=file_NR_VALUABLE_ALTERNATIVE_SOURCE_OF_ENERGY_GOING_TO_WASTE.pdf), conducted by the University of Waterloo (Ontario) School of Planning, estimates that if all the non-recycled plastics were converted to fuel oil, it would produce almost 9 million barrels of oil -- equivalent to a value of $787 million.

"Plastics, being hydrocarbons, have energy values substantially higher than coal and almost as high as natural gas and oil. Capturing this energy value of non-recycled plastics would contribute a significant supply of alternative energy in Canada," said the report's co-author, professor Murray E. Haight, in a prepared statement.

Alternatively, the study found that if all of the non-recycled plastics were separated from other waste and incinerated in power plants, the electricity produced would be sufficient to supply almost 500,000 Canadian households annually.

[ ](http://www.plasticsrecycling.com/)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3451

Plastics Recycling Update Magazine: NewsBits

## NewsBits


A **new organization** has formed to advocate for plastics recycling issues in North and South Carolina. The [Carolinas Plastics Recycling Council](http://recyclonomicssc.com/therecyclingloop/manufacturing/carolinaplasticsrecyclingcouncil.aspx) is co-chaired by Tamsin Ettefagh of Envision Plastics, and Steve Zagorski of United Fiber.

A leading seller of **oxodegradable additives** expects to report a loss of more than $2 million for 2012. Publicly-traded [Symphony Environmental](http://www.stockmarketwire.com/article/4520756/Symphony-Environmental-sees-FY-loss-materially-over-1-point-1m.html) had revenues of $7.8 million last year, down 42 percent.

Japanese firm Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd. has filed Patent Application No. 20130018115, which covers a method of **recovering polycarbonate resin from discarded optical disks**.

**A ban on plastic bags** took [effect](http://www.hawaiireporter.com/plastic-bag-prohibition-in-effect-on-hawaii-island/123) on Jan. 17 for **Hawaii County**. The ban will be phased in, with a fee charged for single-use plastic bags for the first year.

The manager for **Waste Management's** new materials recovery facility that recently opened to serve the Topeka, Kansas area has a message for the residents: **Don't put plastic bags in with your recyclables**, reports [_The Topeka Capital-Journal_](http://cjonline.com/news/2013-01-20/recycling-plant-manager-dont-put-out-plastic-bags).

[ ](http://www.plasticsrecycling.com/)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3449

Plastics Recycling Update Magazine: PetroChem Wire: Recycled PP prices rose in January

## _PetroChem Wire_: Recycled PP prices rose in January


_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

Prices for CoPP and HoPP repro were higher by at least a penny in January due to seasonal demand. Black HoPP repro was reported around 43-44 cents per pound, with CoPP black repro closer to 50 cents per pound.

In the regrind market, HoPP black and mixed color remained at parity, selling as high as 37 cents per pound, up a penny from late December. Prime PP prices trended higher following the settlement of January monomer contracts at a 15 cents per pound increase. One PP supplier had scheduled a 6 cents per pound increase to take effect Jan. 15, on top of a 12.5 cent increase announced for Jan. 1. February increases were also expected in the prime market.

For more information about _PetroChem Wire's Repro/Regrind Resin Report_ and daily prime grade polymers and monomers report, or to arrange a free trial subscription, contact Cindy Bryan at [cindy@petrochemwire.com](mailto:cindy@petrochemwire.com) or(713) 385-1407. To see sample issues of PCW publications, click [here](http://www.petrochemwire.com/Sample_Issues/Our_Publications.html).

[ ](http://www.sdslogistics.com/quick-quote?src=droptrailersplastics)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3452

Verizon kicks off series of e-waste recycling rallies

The first of nine e-waste recycling rallies hosted by Verizon Wireless across the country was held at the company's facility in Temple Terrace, Fla.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130125/NEWS03/130129938

Waste Management poised to take over former Boston Globe printing plant

Waste giant plans to spend $5 million to refurbish the closed site to house operations.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130125/NEWS01/130129933

Washington compost facility sued over odor

About 350 people living near commercial-scale composting facilities in Everett and Maple Valley, Wash., have joined two lawsuits against the facilities' operator, Cedar Grove Composting.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130125/NEWS02/130129937

Chattanooga, Tenn., to form new water treatment authority

Chattanooga, Tenn., City Council members on Jan. 22 authorized a new water and wastewater treatment authority for the city.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130125/NEWS08/130129939

California's first dry anaerobic digestion facility to open next month

The Monterey (Calif.) Regional Waste Management District's new waste conversion facility is set to go online in mid-February, the first in the state -- and second in the nation -- to use dry anaerobic digestion technology.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130125/NEWS02/130129941

Bureau of International Recycling concerned over recent fraud in the industry

There have been several cases of fraudulent business offers in the international recycling industry involving non-existent cargoes of scrap metal, according to a statement from the Bureau of International Recycling.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130125/NEWS02/130129942

Report: Recycling would create jobs in New Mexico

More than 5,000 jobs will be created, directly or indirectly, if the state of New Mexico implements a statewide residential pay-as-you-throw program

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130125/NEWS02/130129944

Effort to extend Massachusetts' bottle bill to non-carbonated beverages introduced

A measure to extend Massachusetts' bottle bill to non-carbonated beverages has been introduced.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130125/NEWS08/130129943

ISRI releases first-of-its-kind report on scrap industry, commodities

The Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries Inc. has released a first-of-its-kind comprehensive report on the scrap recycling industry.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130125/NEWS02/130129946

Recology working to reduce odor at composting operation

In response to numerous odor complaints, Nature's Needs, a composting operation near North Plains, Ore., offered to longer accept commercial food waste and will move operations that produce the most odor to nighttime hours.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130121/NEWS02/130129945

E-Scrap News Magazine: Department of Energy to research rare earth recycling

## Department of Energy to research rare earth recycling


_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

Preparing for a potential domestic shortage of rare earth metals, the U.S. Department of Energy has [announced](http://rareearthinvestingnews.com/8868-united-states-department-energy-rare-earths-price-toyota-tsusho-matamec-pele-mkango-deep-sea-japan.html) that it will establish a new research center to examine ways to keep a steady of supply of these increasingly valuable materials.

The Ames Laboratory in Ames, Iowa has been awarded up to $120 million over five years to establish a research hub that will develop solutions to potential shortages of rare earths and other materials. The new research center is dubbed the Critical Materials Institute and will bring together researchers from academia, the private sector and four Department of Energy's national laboratories.

The new hub will focus on technologies that will help the U.S. make better use of the materials that are currently accessible in existing electronics. It will also look at ways to eliminate the need for materials that are subject to supply disruptions. CMI will build on existing research programs and will seek to address challenges across the entire life cycle of these materials, including more efficient use of rare earths in manufacturing, recycling and reuse.

[ ](http://e-stewards.org/)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3445

E-Scrap News Magazine: Sims caught in e-scrap inventory scandal

## Sims caught in e-scrap inventory scandal


_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

Sims Metal Management has cautioned shareholders that the value of its inventory held in the U.K. has been materially overstated -- possibly due to fraud.

On Jan. 20, the massive metal recycling company announced in a [statement](http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=85661&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1776202&highlight=) that its inventory associated with its U.K. e-scrap businesses in Long Marston, England, and Newport, Wales, was in question.

Preliminary findings, according to the company, suggest that the approximately $60 million inventory adjustment is the result of control failures and potential fraud by local and regional plant management responsible for technology and downstream processing systems in the U.K.

In response, SMM's board has set up a special committee to oversee an investigation into the matter that will be conducted by the company's internal audit team. The immediate priority of the oversight committee is to determine the exact amount of the adjustment and the impact it will have on the company's accounts. The committee is also charged with understanding what went wrong and what remedies need to be applied, as well as what action needs to be taken regarding any employees or third parties involved in the incident.

The company was contacted by _E-Scrap News_ but declined comment.

Predictably, investors responded negatively to the news, sending Sims' stock price down 58 cents on the day of the announcement, to close at $9.88 per share.

[ ](http://www.jtenv.com/r2.cfm)

[ ](http://www.clovertech.com)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3448

E-Scrap News Magazine: Certification scorecard

## Certification scorecard


With the roster of companies attaining third-party certifications or audits continuing to grow, _E-Scrap News_ has compiled a round-up of the firms announcing certification this past week.

* **Techway Services**, of Farmers Branch, Texas, is certified to ISO 9001 and ISO 14001.
* **Green Wave Computer Recycling LLC** of Indianapolis is now R2 certified.
* **Cintas Document Management** of Lawrenceville, New Jersey; **Citishred LLC** of St. Louis; **Gilmore Services** of Pensacola, Florida; **Media Services/Shred Time** of Kansas City, Missouri; **Rocky Mountain Document Destruction** of Salt Lake City; **Secure Destruction Service** of Birmingham, Alabama; **SureShred** of Hayward, California; **The Arc of Madison County** of Huntsville, Alabama; and **Western Records Destruction** of Boise, Idaho have either achieved or renewed their NAID Certification for Physical Destruction of Hard Drives.

Has your firm recently completed a CHWMEG audit or an ISO 9001, ISO 14001, R2, RIOS or e-Stewards certification? Email [henry@resource-recycling.com](mailto:henry@resource-recycling.com) to be included in this section and in _E-Scrap News_' quarterly directory.

[ ](http://173.203.200.22/)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3444

E-Scrap News Magazine: NewsBits

## NewsBits


Data security firm **Blancco has announced it is working with the Device Renewal Forum** to develop a data-erasure certification for used phones and mobile devices. Citing the market potential for used smartphones, the two organizations say they will work together on formal data security guidelines for mobile devices -- possibly including [Blancco Mobile](http://www.blancco.com/en/products/total-data-erasure/mobile/) security software.

Japanese firm Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd. has filed Patent Application No. 20130018115, which covers a method of **recovering polycarbonate resin from discarded optical disks**.

Researchers at **Purdue and Tuskegee Universities** are working on a [five-year project](http://www.laboratoryequipment.com/news/2013/01/green-electronics-will-cut-down-e-waste), funded with a $3.2 million grant from the **National Science Foundation**, that will develop "nanocomposites" for structural applications in casings and circuit boards. The researchers also plan on creating lignin and soy-based resins for circuit board construction to replace petroleum-derived resins. Other goals include development of adhesives from marine organisms for the construction and disassembly of electronics and green replacements for brominated flame retardants.

[ ](https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2523028787997809152)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3443

E-Scrap News Magazine: CRT stakeholders meet to assess options

## CRT stakeholders meet to assess options


_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

CRT glass stockpiles could be declared superfund sites if action is not taken, prompting multiple stakeholders in the CRT recycling industry to convene earlier this month to discuss problems and potential solutions for recycling CRT glass.

Representatives from state environmental protection agencies from Maryland to Maine, the U.S. EPA, recycling firms and OEMs held a series of meetings between January 10-15, hosted by Transparent Planet, the Northeast Recycling Council and the Electronics Recycling Coordination Clearinghouse. The meetings took place at the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection headquarters in Hartford, as well as Panasonic North America's headquarters in Secaucus, New Jersey, and a separate meeting in Arlington, Virginia.

On the agenda were findings and conclusions of the recent report "[U.S. CRT Glass Management: A Bellwether for Sustainability of Electronics Recycling in the United States](http://transparentplanetllc.com/us-crt-glass-management/)," which estimates 660 million pounds of CRT glass sent for recycling are actually being stockpiled at undisclosed locations in the U.S. Among the material that is actually recycled, 80 percent is shipped to a single CRT display manufacturer and the report concludes that the current bottleneck of unwanted material will only get worse if nothing is done.

Representatives from the EPA stated that an abandoned stockpile of CRT glass would likely be declared superfund sites for cleanup -- exposing both the recycling firm and parties that supplied the glass to liability. Additionally, EPA officials explained that while leaded glass from CRT displays -- if improperly handled -- can potentially be considered hazardous waste under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), individual states are the primary enforcers of RCRA. Enforcement at the state level has thus far been sporadic.

"The extent and implications of CRT stockpiling in the U.S. are no longer a secret," said Lauren Roman, managing director for Transparent Planet. "All stakeholders must now act quickly to address the problems and work to stabilize markets for proper management of CRT glass. On behalf of the CRT recyclers that have supported this process, Transparent Planet will work with government, industry and NGO leaders to address the issues identified and ensure the long-term success of legislated electronics take-back programs."

Stakeholders participating in the meetings were advised on the relative strengths and weaknesses of existing state programs, such as the lack of mass-balance monitoring, which accounts for the total amount of material received and shipped from a facility, as well as verification of receipt of materials at their intended destination.

The meeting participants hope to address these shortcomings in CRT glass processing, as well as provide incentives for the development of more processing technologies.

[ ](http://mrpcompany.com/)

[ ](http://www.sdslogistics.com/quick-quote?src=drayescrap)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3447

E-Scrap News Magazine: New study highlights e-waste cancer risk

## New study highlights e-waste cancer risk


_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

Crude e-scrap processing sites in China rival the country's now infamous smog as a danger to human health, according to the results of a new study published in _[Environmental Science and Technology](http://pubs.acs.org/doi/pdfplus/10.1021/es302272a)_.

Specifically, the study found that residents living in rural areas less than a mile from an electronic scrap processing site were 1.6 times more likely to develop lung cancer than residents of the heavily populated industrial city of Guangzhou. The researchers narrowed down the likely cancer cause to airborne pollutants given off by the burning of scrap cell phones, computers, TVs and other scrap electronics for metal recovery by the informal recycling sector. Researchers detected these chemicals in the atmosphere 98 percent of the time in the rural area, versus 93 percent of the time in the city. However, direct contact with heavy metals and other carcinogenic chemicals was also observed.

"In the village, people were recycling waste in their yards and homes, using utensils and pots to melt down circuit boards and reclaim metals," said Staci Simonich, study co-author and professor of environmental and molecular toxicology at Oregon State University. "There was likely exposure through breathing, skin and food -- including an intimate connection between e-waste and the growing of vegetables, raising of chickens and catching of fish."

In Guangzhou, the estimated rate of lung cancer attributable to airborne chemicals from e-scrap processing ranges from 9 to 737 cases per million people. In the rural study area, the estimated range increased to between 15 and 1,200 cases per million people.

The study was conducted by Oregon State University and partnering researchers in China, and funded through the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and the National Institutes of Health.

[ ](http://Ousei.jp)

[ ](http://transparentplanetllc.com/us-crt-glass-management/)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3446

Sullivan County, New York, considering composting program

Officials lookito recycle about 17,000 tons of food and organic waste each year.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130124/NEWS02/130129947

Study: Residents near Chinese e-waste recycling site at increased risk of cancer

People living near an e-waste recycling site in a rural village in China are 1.6 times more likely to develop cancer than those living in the heavily polluted Chinese city of Guangzhou, according to a recent Oregon State University study.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130124/NEWS02/130129950

Plastics recycling jumps in the UK

Survey from British Plastics Federation's Recycling Group shows big increases from 2010.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130124/NEWS02/130129948

SEC aproves settlement of fraud lawsuit plastic waste-to-fuel company, CEO

The Securities and Exchange Commission has approved the settlement of a lawsuit against JBI Inc., a clean energy company that recycles waste plastic into fuel, and its former CEO, John Bordynuik.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130124/NEWS02/130129949

Deadline for Dallas flow-control argument extended into February

A federal judge has extended the deadline for the National Solid Wastes Management Association to file its brief on Dallas' request for a new trial in the flow-control case.

URL: http://wasteandrecyclingnews.com/article/20130124/NEWS08/130129951

Resource Recycling Magazine: _Plastics Recycling 2013_: Recycling playtime

## _Plastics Recycling 2013_: Recycling playtime

What's the best way to recycle plastic toys? Funded by the American Chemistry Council, this brand-new research from 4R Sustainability explores the technical feasibility of recycling plastics from toys. This study aims to understand what existing municipal collection and recovery schemes could do to facilitate the recovery of toys for recycling. Would toys be a good fit for inclusion in bulky rigids recycling programs? At what point should plastic toys with electronic components be diverted to electronics recyclers? What makes some toys more recyclable than others? What opportunities exist for recovering oil from plastic toys? Get the answers to these important questions and more from this fascinating new study.

Don't be left behind -- get your facts straight from the source at the 2013 Plastics Recycling Conference, which will be held **March 19-20 in New Orleans**. For more information, visit [www.plasticsrecycling.com](http://www.plasticsrecycling.com/).

And, after the conference, stick around for the **Global Plastics Environmental Conference's (GPEC)** "The Latest Need to Know: From Recycling to Sustainability of Plastics." GPEC's conference will be held right after the Plastics Recycling Conference, March 20-22 at the same great location, the Sheraton New Orleans, right next to the Crescent City's famed French Quarter. Don't miss out on these two terrific events.

[ ](http://www.plasticsrecycling.com/)

[ ](http://www.sperecycling.org/)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3441

Resource Recycling Magazine: The wide world of recycling

## The wide world of recycling

_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

The proliferation of incinerators in northern Europe could be undermining recycling goals, part of Kurdistan is slated to get a big boost to its recycling infrastructure and demand for Western wares in Africa is driving clothing reuse.

A new [report](http://www.no-burn.org/downloads/Incineration overcapacity and waste shipping in Europe the end of the proximity principle -January 2013-1.pdf) commissioned by the Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives has found that the capacity of incinerators in some parts of **Europe** has outstripped available garbage, and the entire situation could prevent countries in the continent from meeting recycling targets.

According to the report, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden and the U.K. have the capacity to burn more non-recyclable waste than they are currently capable of, and, as a consequence, waste is being shipped across national borders to feed the incinerators.

Although 22 percent of the EU's waste is sent to incinerators, the industry is still seeking to increase capacity. The report raises concerns that doing so could undermine the EU's prioritization of waste prevention, reuse and recycling. Countries that are behind in achieving recycling targets might fall further behind as a result of increased demand for feedstock for incinerators, according to the report.

"If the European Commission is to maintain its commitment to limit incineration to non-recyclables by 2020, the strategy should be to close incinerators and not to build new ones," said Joan Marc Simon, coordinator of GAIA in Europe, in a prepared statement. "The objectives of the Resource Efficiency Roadmap and recycling targets won't be achieved unless the European Commission tightly controls the European incineration capacity."

In **Iraq**'s Kurdistan Region, a new 23 billion Iraqi dinar (about $20 million) recycling project is slated to be built on 70 acres of land where it will recycle materials from a number of towns and villages, reports [_Rudaw_](http://www.rudaw.net/english/kurds/5676.html). According to the article, the unnamed company has already begun to import trucks from Japan and is hiring hundreds of workers. The recycling will be done by an Egyptian company. The recycled material will be used to make fertilizer, paper, glass and other materials.

You know that bag of old clothing you dropped off at a charity? There's a fairly good chance that it made its way to **sub-Saharan Africa**, reports [_The Christian Science Monitor_](http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Africa/2013/0119/A-second-life-for-the-West-s-secondhand-clothing-in-Uganda). According to the paper, textile reuse is ballooning into a billion dollar industry, with many used wares in high demand in places like Africa.

Charities, such as Oxfam, are stepping up efforts to collect used clothing in hopes of maximizing revenue for the non-governmental organization while reducing waste. The article also cites numbers showing that 1,589 tons of used clothing worth $1.3 million were shipped from the U.S. to Uganda between January and October of last year alone.

However, the paper also reports that the imports are undercutting domestic textile industries.

[ ](https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2523028787997809152)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3436

Resource Recycling Magazine: Austin double-pays for recycling

## Austin double-pays for recycling

_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

Austin, Texas pays two firms to handle the city's recycling. However, one of them is being paid significantly more to process less material.

According to a report in the [_Austin-American Statesman_](http://www.statesman.com/news/news/local-govt-politics/austin-paying-one-of-two-recycling-firms-far-more/nT3Lf/), in the first two months of two 20-year deals, the city paid Balcones Resources $83,548 to process 5,387 tons of recyclables, while paying Texas Disposal Systems (TDS) $135,733 to process 3,669 tons of recyclables. This pencils out to TDS getting twice the amount per ton as Balcones.

The paper reports that the rates were worked out in 2011, when the city was looking to split the recycling work between plants operated by the two companies. Balcones owns a recycling plant in Northeast Austin, while TDS has a facility south of the city.

According to the paper, the city wanted to split the work geographically to reduce fuel and other transportation costs. The paper reports that the city had no numbers on how much it was saving by sending recyclables to different locations at press time.

[ ](http://mrpcompany.com/)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3440

Resource Recycling Magazine: CRT stakeholders meet to assess options

## CRT stakeholders meet to assess options

_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

CRT glass stockpiles could be declared superfund sites if action is not taken, prompting multiple stakeholders in the CRT recycling industry to convene earlier this month to discuss problems and potential solutions for recycling CRT glass.

Representatives from state environmental protection agencies from Maryland to Maine, the U.S. EPA, recycling firms and OEMs held a series of meetings between January 10-15, hosted by Transparent Planet, the Northeast Recycling Council and the Electronics Recycling Coordination Clearinghouse. The meetings took place at the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection headquarters in Hartford, as well as Panasonic North America's headquarters in Secaucus, New Jersey, and a separate meeting in Arlington, Virginia.

On the agenda were findings and conclusions of the recent report "[U.S. CRT Glass Management: A Bellwether for Sustainability of Electronics Recycling in the United States](http://transparentplanetllc.com/us-crt-glass-management/)," which estimates 660 million pounds of CRT glass sent for recycling are actually being stockpiled at undisclosed locations in the U.S. Among the material that is actually recycled, 80 percent is shipped to a single CRT display manufacturer and the report concludes that the current bottleneck of unwanted material will only get worse if nothing is done.

Representatives from the EPA stated that an abandoned stockpile of CRT glass would likely be declared superfund sites for cleanup -- exposing both the recycling firm and parties that supplied the glass to liability. Additionally, EPA officials explained that while leaded glass from CRT displays -- if improperly handled -- can potentially be considered hazardous waste under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), individual states are the primary enforcers of RCRA. Enforcement at the state level has thus far been sporadic.

"The extent and implications of CRT stockpiling in the U.S. are no longer a secret," said Lauren Roman, managing director for Transparent Planet. "All stakeholders must now act quickly to address the problems and work to stabilize markets for proper management of CRT glass. On behalf of the CRT recyclers that have supported this process, Transparent Planet will work with government, industry and NGO leaders to address the issues identified and ensure the long-term success of legislated electronics take-back programs."

Stakeholders participating in the meetings were advised on the relative strengths and weaknesses of existing state programs, such as the lack of mass-balance monitoring, which accounts for the total amount of material received and shipped from a facility, as well as verification of receipt of materials at their intended destination.

The meeting participants hope to address these shortcomings in CRT glass processing, as well as provide incentives for the development of more processing technologies.

[ ](http://www.rotochopper.com/)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3437

Resource Recycling Magazine: Another report finds more recycling means more jobs

## Another report finds more recycling means more jobs

_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

A report from the New Mexico Recycling Coalition finds that almost 5,000 new "direct, indirect and induced" jobs will be created in the Land of Enchantment if the state recycling rate hits 34 percent.

According to [the report](http://www.recyclenewmexico.com/jobs.htm), prepared by Fairfax, Virginia-based consulting firm ICF International for the New Mexico Recycling Coalition, if the state follows the increased recycling trend of the last five years, New Mexico could reach the national recycling rate of 34 percent by 2015, creating 4,871 jobs for the state.

The report goes on to detail a strategy to reach this figure, primarily predicated on establishing pay-as-you-throw (PAYT) solid waste pricing schemes throughout the state. If a statewide PAYT program were implemented, the report finds that would create 2,096 new direct local jobs, for a total of 5,356 new local jobs overall (again, direct, indirect and induced). Further, the state would pocket an estimated savings of $12.5 million in avoided disposal costs.

[ ](http://www.sdslogistics.com/quick-quote?src=forlifebannerrecycling)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3438

Resource Recycling Magazine: Compromise reached in composting kerfuffle

## Compromise reached in composting kerfuffle

_By Editorial Staff, Resource Recycling_

In the latest episode in a long-fought battle over where the Portland metro area's commercial and residential food scraps go, a compromise has been reached -- though the fight may not be over.

Ever since the Portland area began sending its food scraps to the Nature's Needs composting facility in North Plains, a small city northwest of Portland, there has been local push-back on the facility, so much so that it illustrates the difficulty of having a composting facility in a large metro area.

On Jan. 22, in a controversial decision, the Washington County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to extend the permit for the facility for residential food scraps and yard debris collected from many cities in the Portland metro area, reports Oregon Public Broadcasting's [_Ecotrope_](http://ecotrope.opb.org/2013/01/washington-county-cuts-food-waste-composting/). Also due to the vote, the composting facility that is owned and operated by Recology Oregon Recovery will no longer accept commercial food scraps from any of the programs in the area, as of April 1.

The commission can also shut the facility down within 30 days if odors persist from residential food scrap composting. Because residents in Portland set out food scraps with yard debris, banning both residential and commercial food scraps would mean the company would have to shut down.

Recology Oregon Recovery will also have to hire a third-party odor monitor for the Nature's Needs site. As long as there are no odor issues, the facility will continue to accept residential food scraps through the facility's July 2015 franchise end date.

Commissioners had debated whether to allow a temporary extension of the program or end it outright, reported [_The Oregonian_](http://www.oregonlive.com/washingtoncounty/index.ssf/2013/01/commissioners_vote_to_allow_re.html). The facility has long been the target of local activists, such as the [Stop the Stink](http://stoprstink.org/) group, who have waged an organized grievance campaign against Nature's Needs, notching over 1,250 odor complaints in the last year. Some area politicians side with the group, including the mayor of North Plains, David Hatcher.

"Composting next to a populated area doesn't work," Hatcher told Washington County commissioners at last night's meeting. "I think this experiment has shown that."

With no local destination for the commercial organic materials to go to, food scraps and yard debris will likely be shipped to another facility in the region. The two largest composting facilities currently are Pacific Region Compost in Corvallis, over 80 miles south, and Cedar Grove Composting in Maple Valley, Washington, outside the Seattle/Tacoma metro area, over 160 miles north.

Currently, ROR has a contract with the Metro regional government to handle commercial organics and, according to a Metro source, that contract is not tied to the firm's ability to send the materials to Nature's Needs. The company will have to find a new location and ask Metro for approval once a suitable location is found. Representatives for the company did not return requests for comment at press time.

"I'm very confident it will be worked out in a way that maintains the collection and the composting of the material," said Bruce Walker, the City of Portland's solid waste and recycling program manager.

[ ](http://www.ousei.jp/)

[ ](http://compostingcouncil.org/conference/)

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URL: http://resource-recycling.com/node/3442