The Natural Resources Council of Maine is working hard to eliminate the very concept of waste. Most of the “waste” that fills dumpsters and trash bags isn’t waste at all— it’s a resource. In other words, these materials are not waste until they are wasted.
Our materials management economy is a complex system of resource extraction, manufacturing, distribution, consumption, and disposal, and everyone has a role to play. At NRCM, we promote policies at the state and local levels to reduce the volume and toxicity of the waste we generate and increase recycling or composting and move us toward a circular economy; and we defend against policies that would move us in the opposite direction.
We also highlight the good work being done by Maine people to create a less wasteful society in hopes that others will be inspired to take action. Advancements in waste reduction, reuse, recycling, and composting throughout Maine is crucial to conserving our natural resources and lessens the need for landfills.
Being less wasteful isn’t just the right thing to do, it also creates job opportunities through innovative methods of managing diverse materials and saves money for our municipalities. It’s a win-win-win.
Recycling and Waste Management in Maine:
- Recycling Reform in Maine
- Waste Reduction and Reuse
- Recycling in Maine
- Food Waste
- Construction and Demolition Debris and Other Special Types of Waste
- Landfills and Waste-to-Energy Facilities
- Product Stewardship
Also be sure to check out the “Related Resources” section below for access to important resources.
