Robots move in

More MRFs are turning to automation and advanced technology to fill gaps and boost efficiencies, especially in light of market changes, but a full replacement of human labor isn’t here yet.

By Katie Pyzyk • Dec. 11, 2019

On the line in California

The state may have a reputation for progressive recycling policies, but industry workers still face numerous hazards. Here are two of their stories.

By Susie Neilson • Dec. 11, 2019

High risk, hidden workforce

With fluctuating injury rates, and ongoing fatalities, MRFs remain a key safety challenge. Operators discuss efforts to change that through better training, tighter protocols and a lower dependence on temporary labor.

By Cole Rosengren • Dec. 11, 2019

Organization of the Year: SWANA

The association's profile continues to rise on recycling, safety and international issues. Sweeping structural changes and growing membership position it for more to come.

By Cole Rosengren • Dec. 9, 2019

Rising BLS injury, illness rate for collection workers troubles industry

Incidence rates were up for collection employees in 2018, to more than double the national average, but declined at both landfills and MRFs.

By Cole Rosengren • Nov. 8, 2019

Casella Q3: Northeast still focal point, Pennsylvania could be key to future

The Vermont company is pushing the envelope for landfill pricing – as it ramps up capacity at multiple sites – and is eyeing potential divestments from Waste Management's Advanced Disposal acquisition.

By Cole Rosengren • Nov. 4, 2019

Key stories from the New York commercial waste reform saga

The multiyear push to implement a nonexclusive franchise system has been tumultuous and complex. Follow along with Waste Dive’s in-depth coverage.

Updated Nov. 20, 2024

Looking forward after historic New York commercial waste zone approval

Mayor Bill de Blasio has signed four bills, including one to establish commercial waste zones, that will bring sweeping changes to the city's open market system.

By Cole Rosengren • Updated Nov. 21, 2019

Republic Services Q3: Expect $550M in M&A this year, 'strong' 2020 pace

Republic sees many expansion opportunities within its core capabilities, possibly even in Canada, and reported few economic concerns. Executives also addressed recycling, E&P and labor pressures.

By Cole Rosengren • Oct. 31, 2019

New York City Council advances commercial zone bill, opponents make final push

The successful vote came after 13 council members endorsed a letter requesting more time to consider a proposal that will dramatically reshape the city's open market system. A final vote is scheduled for Oct. 30.

By Cole Rosengren • Oct. 29, 2019

Massachusetts Teamsters end Republic strike, quit jobs

After 84 days, and multiple rounds of unsuccessful contract negotiations, two dozen workers voted to end their demonstration. Their strike attracted national attention, including from multiple presidential candidates.

By Cole Rosengren • Updated Nov. 21, 2019

New York commercial waste zone bill finalized ahead of imminent vote

Aside from new language on labor retention, the version council members will be asked to vote on remains largely unchanged from a prior draft. A vote is expected Oct. 30.

By Cole Rosengren • Updated Oct. 23, 2019

Federal court OKs Waste Pro workers' overtime, joint employment suit

The order could allow a jury to decide whether Waste Pro USA was a joint employer along with Waste Pro of Florida, Inc., and therefore liable for the alleged violations.

By Jennifer Carsen • Oct. 9, 2019

Who comes out on top if New York passes commercial waste zones?

How many local haulers will be left to win franchise contracts, and whether any new entrants join the fray, all comes down to how legislative negotiations play out.

By Cole Rosengren • Updated Oct. 9, 2019

Industry's top trade groups sign first OSHA safety alliance

The NWRA and SWANA will collaborate with federal regulators to share information on a range of safety issues, with a focus on small- and medium-sized employers.

By Cole Rosengren • Updated Oct. 2, 2019

DOL finalizes $35K overtime threshold

The update takes effect Jan. 1 and is perhaps one of the most anticipated rulemakings from DOL.

By Ryan Golden • Sept. 24, 2019

Senate confirms Scalia as labor secretary

The former solicitor of labor appeared measured in his responses during a confirmation hearing that saw criticism of his record as a management-side attorney.

By Ryan Golden • Updated Sept. 26, 2019

Teamsters' clash with Republic Services expands in Georgia and beyond

As collection workers strike in Massachusetts, actions have also been reported in California, Georgia and Indiana.

By Cole Rosengren • Sept. 11, 2019

Scrap Collector: Plastic makes its way into oceans – and 2020 climate forum

Plus: California county settling landfill employee racial discrimination suit, and UK waste management giant Biffa pleading not guilty to export charges.

By Rina Li • Sept. 6, 2019

Teamsters continue Republic strike in Massachusetts, picket in California

Teamsters Local 25 have been on strike for a week over initial contract negotiations. Meanwhile, the union is ramping up pressure elsewhere, and Republic has taken the issue to court.

By Cole Rosengren • Updated Sept. 5, 2019

Bernie Sanders's $16.3T climate plan promises major waste and recycling shifts

The Democratic presidential candidate's platform includes a national recycling program, divestment from incinerators, funding for food recovery and composting investments, and a right to repair policy.

By Rina Li • Aug. 30, 2019

What's next for California container recycling after rePlanet's closure?

Losing the state's largest recycling center operator in one fell swoop could challenge California's redemption program. Supporters and critics alike offer ideas for stabilization.

By Katie Pyzyk • Aug. 28, 2019

Republic Services Q2: M&A spending much higher than planned

More referrals than ever have put the Arizona company on track for a big year of acquisitions. Overall quarterly results were also strong — with some hope even for recycling.

By Cole Rosengren • July 26, 2019

Republic climate goals approved by Science Based Targets initiative

The international recognition is a first for any U.S. waste and recycling company’s sustainability plan. Republic has committed to reducing key greenhouse gas emissions 35% by 2030.

By Cole Rosengren • Updated Sept. 24, 2019

Scrap Collector: US stands as lone OECD opponent of Basel plastic amendment

Plus: Cambodia returning illegal waste imports, and India's capital cracking down on food waste at social functions.

By Rina Li • July 19, 2019