01-03-1985 Council Packet Special Meeting

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Organized collection services could play a major role in implementing the regional strategy. Organized collection is particularly adaptable to using sub - regional service areas, and offers savings to the local community and waste collector. The Council is currently evaluating organized collection, and will complete a report in mid-1985. MARKET DEVELOPMENT It is important that enough markets, or consumers, exist willing to take the products from solid waste recovery programs, such as energy, compost, grass, paper and residuals like ash. Without this demand, waste recovery has little chance of succeeding. Although markets have always been a factor in past decis- ions, there has never been a concerted effort to improve market conditions in the region. Markets can include industries, businesses, governmental units, groups of peo- ple and individuals. Crucial to the success of the regional strategy is expand- ing existing markets and developing new ones. Priority must be given to having such a program in place in 1985. Markets will see this as a serious commitment to changing waste management practices and an opportunity for investments. Enacting an innovative program requires the cooperation of a number of govern- mental agencies and the business community. Currently, some uncertainty exists about specific roles in the region, and market development efforts are frag- mented and frequently duplicative. A need for coordination is apparent, along with setting up a carefully structured program. The Council and the state Department of Energy and Economic Development appear best suited to set up the market development program. Recent research by the Council indicates that the following areas deserve particular attention 1) sta- bilizing recyclable material supplies; 2) targeting specific markets for expan- sion and development; 3) improving public education and technical assistance capabilities; 4) reexamining the role of market subsidies; and 5) re-examining the effect and role of state and local financial and regulatory devices. PUBLIC EDUCATION AND PARTICIPATION Accomplishing the regional strategy depends on a high level of public under- standing and participation. The public's willingness to accept new solutions and pay somewhat higher costs for improved waste management will depend, to a large extent, on educational and related efforts. Activities like waste reduc- tion and source separation are particularly dependent on methods to persuade public attitudes. Several governmental bodies and private groups in the Metropolitan Area already provide public education and participation activities. These organizations include the Council, metropolitan counties, many cities and townships, Minne- sota Pollution Control Agency, Minnesota Waste Management Board and private entities, such as recycling firms and public interest groups. However, efforts by these organizations are often fragmented, duplicate one another and do not provide the service the public needs. A program is needed that coordinates public education and participation. The purpose of such programs would be to 1) change behavior of those who generate waste through actual participation in waste reduction and resou--p recovery programs; 2) increase public awarenes, about waste management; a..a 3) increase citizen participation in important decisions on solid waste plans and projects. 31