Winters Bros. Waste Systems Releases Report About Long Island's Waste Crisis

Babylon, NY-based Winters Bros. Waste Systems has released a report regarding the state of waste management in Long Island.

The United States generated almost 292 million tons of municipal solid waste (MSW) in 2022, a 2 percent increase from the previous year. 

"Long Island is the place where we have not only chosen to grow our business, but also to raise our families," said Jimmy Winters, vice president, Winters Bros. "As professionals in the field, we are truly distressed about the state of waste on Long Island. As a region, we are at a crossroads with regards to the management of society’s waste. There is no time to wait. We must act now."

The report highlights that recycling rates have remained relatively stagnant over the past few years, with only 35 percent of MSW being recycled in 2022. A growing population is leading to more waste generation, with the U.S. expected to reach 335 million by 2050. In addition, changes in consumer behavior and the rise of e-commerce have led to an increase in packaging waste, which is particularly difficult to manage.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the waste and recycling industry. An increase in online shopping during the pandemic has led to a surge in packaging waste, while the closure of businesses and offices has resulted in a decline in commercial waste generation. In addition, the pandemic led to disruptions in the global supply chain, which has impacted the availability of materials.

Despite these challenges, Winters Bros. identifies several opportunities for the waste and recycling industry. One of the most promising areas is the development of new technologies that can improve operational efficiency. The use of advanced sensors and analytics can help haulers optimize collection routes and reduce costs.

"Volumes of waste are increasing each year despite best efforts to recycle,"  Winters said. "Landfills are shutting down in the northeast forcing lawful companies to ship waste further at higher costs while increasing the risk of illegal dumping by unscrupulous individuals. And once the Brookhaven Landfill closes, transportation and logistical challenges will arise across Long Island.

In addition, the report highlights the importance of collaboration between government, industry and communities to address the waste management challenge. This includes the development of policies and regulations that encourage recycling and the adoption of sustainable practices. It also involves engaging with communities to increase awareness about the importance of waste reduction and recycling.

The report also provides a state-by-state analysis of waste management, highlighting the best and worst performers.

California has the highest recycling rate. Other top-performing states include Oregon, Vermont, and Maine. On the other hand, states like Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi have some of the lowest recycling rates in the country, highlighting the need for increased investment in waste and recycling infrastructure and education in these areas.

Overall, the "State of Waste" report provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of waste management in the United States. While there are certainly challenges ahead, the report also identifies several opportunities for improvement.