The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) revealed its 2025 Solid Waste and Materials Management Plan last week at the Environmental Show of the South in Gatlinburg.
This plan focuses on the sustainable waste and materials management, and includes added recycling measures and re-evaluation of an item's potential for reuse or use in energy recovery. Included in the plan is continued support for businesses that take part in sustainable practices and recycling.
"The plan marks a new era in sustainable materials management in Tennessee, serving as a road map for Tennessee solid waste stakeholders,” TDEC Commissioner Bob Martineau said. “It will help establish a comprehensive statewide solid waste management system that continues to protect public health and safety and enhance the quality of the environment, but with extra focus on sustainability and recycling.”
The plan has eight objectives that include increasing access to recycling programs and enhancing the processing of and end markets for recycled materials. Also listed is increased support for reusing organic material in composting and supporting diversion technology.
The plan will also include education and outreach programs and seek out sustainable funding sources.
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