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Why Beyond Waste?

Avoiding wastes and the use of toxic chemicals is the smartest, cheapest, and healthiest approach to waste management. The Beyond Waste plan shifts from a reactive approach, focusing on clean-up, to a proactive approach, focusing on preventing waste in the first place.

According to the state Office of Financial Management, population in Washington is projected to increase by 2.34 million people by the year 2030. Waste generation is predicted to increase at an even greater rate. Advances in science and technology will continue to provide opportunities for the creation of thousands of new chemical compounds.

Rising population, combined with a rise in disposable products and synthetic chemicals places increased demands on our communities and the environment.

Washington has made tremendous progress in managing wastes during the past few decades. Our air, water, and soil are better protected through laws and regulations that govern handling and disposal of wastes and toxic substances. Yet, despite the efforts of business, government, and citizens, the total volume of toxic substances entering the environment and our bodies is increasing. Despite aggressive recycling programs, the amount of garbage continues to increase.

It is certainly better to manage hazardous waste properly than to dump it in open pits. It is better to recycle than to throw everything in the garbage. These solutions alone, however, will not ensure a healthy environment for future generations. Reputable studies increasingly point to the health impacts of industrial waste and hazardous materials. Waste disposal is a significant source of avoidable greenhouse gas emissions. Our society can no longer afford to produce toxic materials and wastes that are causing increasing environmental and health problems. It's time to move Beyond Waste.

Misconceptions about our Current Waste Management System

There are many misconceptions about waste. These misconceptions, and the dangers they pose, were the impetus for the Beyond Waste Plan. Read more... Misconceptions about our Current Waste Management System

Benefits of Moving Beyond Waste

Once we clear up the misconceptions of waste management, we can more clearly see the benefits from eliminating wastes and toxic substances. By moving our society beyond waste, we create conditions that contribute to economic, social, and environmental vitality. Read more... Benefits of Moving Beyond Waste.