Flow Control entails the ability of a governmental entity to oversee the management of waste generated within its jurisdiction. For the Solid Waste Authority or the SWA, it is essential to channel both the waste and its associated revenue generated in the region to fulfill financial obligations.

The authority responsible for this approach was granted to the Solid Waste Authority through the Special Act. The viability of such measures was discussed by the United States Supreme Court in the Carbone Case. Following this, Federal Appeals Court decisions supporting Babylon and Smithtown, both in New York have affirmed the legitimacy of utilizing contractual flow control.

Implementation of Flow Control

While comprehensive data on the widespread use of flow control in managing solid waste by local governments is lacking, available information indicates its prevalence. As per the United States of America’s EPA, thirty-nine states, along with the Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia, have granted authorization for flow control. Out of these, thirty-five states, the Virgin Islands, and the District of Columbia explicitly endorse it through statutes, while the remaining four states permit it indirectly via home rule authority or within the solid waste management planning process.

Furthermore, certain localities implement a form of this method by awarding franchises for solid waste management, this is prevalent in Utah, California, Kentucky, and Idaho.

However, the authorization of this waste management approach in a state doesn’t guarantee its widespread use by local governments within that state. For example, Illinois has the authority but lacks evidence of local government utilization. Before implementing flow control, certain states require adherence to administrative conditions. This could entail organizing public hearings, engaging in negotiations with private sector entities, and showcasing the need for flow control.

Also See: What is Anaerobic Lagoon?

Benefits

This approach can direct waste to various solid waste facilities, but it often benefits waste-to-energy facilities. In the 1980s, waste-to-energy facility waste handling increased more than tenfold, with flow control ordinances playing a significant role. EPA reports emphazise that flow control plays a significant role, supporting at least 58% of refuse within the segment focused on converting waste to energy.

Since the late 1970s, the EPA encouraged securing waste supply contracts for facilities. While it didn’t necessarily require flow control, its use was recommended to ensure a waste supply and attract bondholders for facility construction. Over $24 billion in municipal bonds, mainly for waste-to-energy facilities, have been issued since 1980. Investors were assured of waste delivery through flow control ordinances.

While waste-to-energy is a major beneficiary of flow control, other local waste management services, including recycling and hazardous waste collection, have benefited. Flow control ensures revenue through higher tipping fees, supporting various management aspects.

Material Flow in Waste Management

The material flow analysis or substances flow analysis method involves assessing the metabolic system of waste management. This entails tracking waste flows and substances within the waste management model, analyzing all inputs and outputs, and evaluating their impact on the system.

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Elliot is a passionate environmentalist and blogger who has dedicated his life to spreading awareness about conservation, green energy, and renewable energy. With a background in environmental science, he has a deep understanding of the issues facing our planet and is committed to educating others on how they can make a difference.

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