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Solid Waste Generated per Dollar GDP

This indicator tracks the efficiency of Washington’s economy relative to waste generation, by comparing the pounds of solid waste generated to the state’s gross domestic product (GDP). Comparing solid waste generated to GDP gives us a measure of "eco-efficiency," by showing how much waste we produce relative to the amount of economic activity.

Beyond Waste intends to decrease waste generation and the use of toxic substances while maintaining or increasing economic output. A state’s gross domestic product, or GDP, is a way of measuring the size of the economy. The GDP includes the total market value of all goods and services produced within the state in a year. We can use this indicator to measure our progress in maintaining or increasing economic output as waste quantities are reduced.

Solid waste includes discards from homes and businesses, as well as waste from manufacturing, construction, and environmental cleanups. Solid wastes are either landfilled, incinerated, or diverted to other uses such as recycling.

 

Washington residents and businesses generated more pounds of solid waste for every dollar of GDP, from 0.09 pounds in 2000 to 0.11 pounds in 2008. So there has been a slight decrease in our overall “eco-efficiency” over that time. From 2006 to 2008, there has been a small decrease, indicating a slight increase in efficiency since fewer pounds of waste were produced for every dollar of GDP (0.12 pounds in 2006 to 0.11 pounds in 2008).

Why should we be concerned about the connection between solid waste and GDP?

An increasing amount of solid waste generated per dollar of gross domestic product represents wasted energy and resources. This indicator shows the link between Beyond Waste actions and economic vitality that is the extent to which waste prevention, reduction, recycling, reuse, and related activities support and promote economic growth.

What are the benefits of reducing the amount of solid waste generated per dollar of gross domestic product?

• Increases economic vitality.
• Conserves valuable resources.
• Increases efficiency.

What are some Beyond Waste actions being taken to increase "eco-efficiency" in Washington?

Ecology and other organizations are:

• Promoting product and packaging design that reduces waste.
• Developing new uses and markets for recycled materials, such as paint.
• Encouraging green building practices.
• Encouraging government purchasing practices that are less wasteful.

Want more information on Solid Waste and Eco-efficiency in Washington?

• Solid Waste and Recycling Data
• Beyond Waste Plan - Current Solid Waste Issues
• Municipal Solid Waste Per GDP and Per Capita - International Comparisons
• Product Stewardship
• Green Building
• Environmentally Preferable Purchasing