Managing and Transforming Waste Streams Tool: Filter Descriptions and Qualitative Rankings

Disclaimer: the filter rankings are intended to be used as general guidelines and do not constitute EPA assessments or recommendations; the actual indicator or level of effort addressed by the filter may vary from community to community. The rankings reflect relative comparisons among the policy and program options featured in the tool. This tool is designed to inspire communities to embark on a process to evaluate various policy and program options on a path towards zero waste.

Diversion Potential ¹
What is the measure's tonnage diversion potential from landfill and combustion?
High/Medium/Low
Upstream Impacts ¹
How significantly does the measure reduce upstream climate impacts (greenhouse gas emissions generated by raw materials extraction and product manufacturing)?
High/Medium/Low
Local Authority
How much control must the local government exert over the discard management system (e.g., service providers, infrastructure collection/transfer/disposal, and/or waste generators) in order to accomplish the measure?
Low (Implied – indirectly through culture or practice)
Medium (Influenced – by policy, permit, license or ordinance)
High (Explicit - directly through contracts or operations)
Receptivity
What is the relative ease and level of effort to initiate and obtain local buy-in for the measure? For example, does it involve promotional activities, recognition, no requirements on waste generators, minor costs (generally easier), or does it involve setting mandatory requirements, restrictions, or higher costs (generally more difficult)?
Easy/Medium/Difficult
Staff Knowledge
How much staff knowledge or specific expertise is needed to implement the measure? Can it be implemented by mid-level local agency staff without outside legal or contractor assistance?
Low/Medium/High
Community Led Initiatives
How easy or hard is it for individuals or groups to initiate adoption or implementation of the measure without actions required by the jurisdiction? Can a local non-profit or group of interested residents carry out the activity (e.g., develop a “how-to guide”) or will it require initiation by local jurisdiction staff or elected bodies (e.g., adopt a local ordinance)?
Easy/Medium/Difficult

¹For measures that involve adopting a Goal and/or Plan, the rankings assume goal/plan implementation.

Managing and Transforming Waste Streams Tool: Filter Descriptions and Qualitative Rankings

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Managing and Transforming Waste Streams – A Tool for Communities