Publication Summary

The Department of Ecology and the State Solid Waste Advisory Committee were directed by the state legislature, through SHB 2960, to study the viability of using permit by rule and evaluate adoption of best available control technology (BACT) for certain recycling facilities. A report was due back to the legislature December 1, 1998. With limited time available, we focused on composting facilities and material recovery facilities. Our study found that permit by rule and BACT would not be effective in the solid waste arena. We instead propose that we address regulating these facilities like we regulate other solid waste facilities - through our rule, Minimum Functional Standard for Solid Waste Handling Facilities. This rule is currently being updated, which provides the perfect opportunity to appropriately address these issues within the current solid waste management system. The result will be consistent regulation of similar facilities between local jurisdictions and a level and competitive playing field for private industry.