ADEQ to Modernize Decades-Old Strategy

PHOENIX (June 4, 2024) — Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) officials announced today that they are inviting Arizonans to play an active role in shaping the future of the state’s solid waste management strategy, which has remained largely unchanged for over three decades. ADEQ recognizes the need to revamp the outdated Arizona Solid Waste Management Plan to align with the evolving landscape of solid waste management, which encompasses trash reduction, reuse, recycling and composting | View Existing Plan >

Local business owners, tribal nations, cities, counties and residents with knowledge of the waste and recycling sector are encouraged to lend their voices to the development of a new and improved Integrated Solid Waste & Materials Management Plan (ISWMMP). ADEQ intends for this new plan to reflect updated objectives and strategies to move Arizona toward a more sustainable future supported by a circular economy.

“By listening to the voices of our communities, we’re not just addressing today's challenges; we’re laying the groundwork for a more resilient and sustainable future for everyone in Arizona,” said ADEQ Cabinet Executive Officer Karen Peters. “Waste reduction and smart waste management are at the heart of our mission and we want to empower community members to be a part of the solution.”

To ensure inclusivity and accessibility, the public engagement process will consist of multiple rounds of in-person and virtual meetings across the state with a commitment to hearing from every county, multiple sectors and engaged citizens. ADEQ will host three rounds of in-person public meetings and three virtual (online) meetings. Each round will include an in-person meeting in Tucson, Phoenix, and Flagstaff, as well as one virtual (online) meeting. These meetings are planned for June and November of 2024, and April of 2025. 

Get full details about the process and public engagement opportunities | View Details > 

During the June meetings, participants will learn about and can get involved in shaping the new ISWMMP, discuss strategies for reducing landfill waste, and share comments about specific local challenges for ADEQ to factor into the new statewide plan. Input from local business owners, tribal nations, cities, counties, and residents knowledgeable about the waste and recycling sector is critical during this first round of meetings. ADEQ will use this feedback to craft an initial ISWMMP, which will be shared with stakeholders for additional input during the second round of meetings in November. Following completion of the second round of stakeholder input, ADEQ plans to complete the final ISWMMP, which will be shared and presented to stakeholders during the third round of meetings in April 2025, and showcase the tangible outcomes of the collaborative effort.

Background

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) granted $700,000 to ADEQ through the Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling (SWIFR) program. This funding, part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, represents a significant move towards updating Arizona’s solid waste infrastructure, which has been in place since 1981. SWIFR grants are aimed at enhancing recycling efforts nationwide. They support the implementation of the National Recycling Strategy, improve post-consumer materials management and infrastructure, strengthen local recycling programs, and assist waste management authorities in upgrading local waste systems. With $275 million allocated over five years, this initiative represents a significant investment in building a more resilient and environmentally conscious future.

• EPA Announces over $100 Million for SWIFR Grants Nationwide | View >   
• EPA Announces ADEQ as Recipient for SWIFR Grant | View > 

Contact

ADEQ Public Information Officer
Ph: 602-540-8072
Email >