The Arkansas Department of Energy and Environment, Division of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has announced it will host stakeholder meetings across the state for better understanding of public perception on the state of solid waste management.聽The project aims to update the Statewide Solid Waste Management Plan (SSWMP), create guidelines for tracking and reporting recycling data, and provide education and outreach to make recycling reporting more consistent. DEQ is charged by Ark. Code Ann. 搂 8-6-1902 with the development of a SSWMP that establishes the minimum requirements for regional solid waste management plans (RSWM). The three-year project has been made possible by a $531,690 Solid Waste Infrastructure and Recycling (SWIFR) grant awarded to DEQ by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
鈥淲ith new technologies and new products, it is imperative to ensure DEQ鈥檚 and regional solid waste management board鈥檚 plans are adequately supporting Arkansas鈥� needs,鈥� said E&E Secretary Shane Khoury. Current RSWM plan requirements established through the SSWMP include strategic planning, reporting, public notice and participation, services, and solutions to problems and issues. Once the statewide plan is updated, the 19 regional solid waste management districts will update their regional plans accordingly and submit to DEQ for approval.
鈥淭hrough this project, we have the opportunity to hear from the regional solid waste management districts, local governments, industry, and public to develop effective and practical guidelines for tracking and reporting necessary for the SSWMP,鈥� stated Chief Administrator of Environment and DEQ Director Bailey Taylor.
The stakeholder meetings will be held across the state January through August 2025.