Incineration, Recycling, Composting: What’s next for Waste Management?

Councilmember Mark Squilla has introduced a new bill called the “Zero Waste Circular Economy Act” that would transition how Philadelphia manages waste to a recovery-based system that prioritizes composting, reuse, repair, remanufacturing and recycling. Using long-term contracts that help drive private investment as a primary mechanism to fund implementation and create economic opportunity, the bill has garnered the support of the Parker Administration.

Councilmember Jamie Gauthier’s “Stop Trashing Our Air Act,” which calls for a complete ban on incineration, set the stage for this new bill by drawing public attention to how Philadelphia manages its waste, but critics of CM Squilla’s bill say that it doesn’t go far enough in the short term. What does this mean and what’s next for waste management in Philadelphia?

Join us for a panel discussion on this very important topic that affects all of us. Speakers Maurice Sampson from Phoenix Collaborations and Samantha Wittchen from Circular Cities Network will share their thoughts and lead a discussion on the topic. This is a hybrid event, so guests can choose to attend either virtually (via Zoom) or in person. The discussion will be hosted in the Parlor room at Summit Presbyterian Church.