Characterization and Management of Organic Waste in North America—Foundational Report
Foundational Report
Characterization and Management of Organic Waste in North America—Foundational Report
Foundational Report
Description
Characterization and Management of Organic Waste in North America identifies challenges, opportunities and solutions related to increasing organic waste diversion and processing capacity in North America, with a focus on how to address challenges and opportunities in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, and identifies potential areas for regional cooperation. The project focuses on organic waste diversion, collection, and processing. Its scope includes organic waste generated in the residential and the industrial, commercial and institutional sectors.
In Canada, Mexico and the United States, organic waste represents a significant component of the waste stream that can be diverted from landfills to other more sustainable waste management practices, including industrial uses and anaerobic digestion processes such as co-digestion and composting. Organic waste diversion will contribute to significant reductions in short-lived climate pollutants—such as methane—which affect human health and air quality, in addition to contributing to climate change. The report explores the current situation and potential areas for improvement—with accompanying environmental and other benefits. It also highlights strategies to reduce short-lived climate pollution and promotes green growth by encouraging the sustainable management of materials, in addition to sustainable consumption and production.
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