SMMP Credit 9: Local Government Policy for Comprehensive Public Participation in Solid Waste Management Program Development (1-2 points)
Non-Reciprocal
Intent:
Solicit and encourage broad public input into decision-making around solid waste management.
Local Government Requirements
Tier 1: (1 point)
Adopt a policy of best-practices public participation in solid waste management decision-making[1] as described in the EPA’s Resource Conservation and Recovery Act Public Participation Manual January 11, 2017 https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-01/documents/final_rcra_ppm.pdf.
Tier 2: (1 point)
Adopt a policy of best-practices public participation in solid waste management decision-making[2] as described in the EPA’s Resource Conservation and Recovery Act Public Participation Manual January 11, 2017 https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-01/documents/final_rcra_ppm.pdf.
● The policy must provide support for the inclusion of public participation. Support can include technical support, provided experts, funding, etc.
Industry Requirements: Not applicable.
Potential Strategies:
● Provide online access to public meeting calendar for waste management meetings and a record of the topics and discussions held.
● Create the role of Waste Ombudsman to interface with the public around these topics.
[1] Solid waste management programs that could be addressed include: recycling program development, waste management fees and contracts, landfill operations (Local Government and contracted), Solid Waste Management Plans, etc.
[2] Ibid