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Background
Southern states are expected to add 8.8 million new
residents (a 10% increase) by 2015. With each person
generating 1 to 2 tons of solid waste and 25,000 gallons
of wastewater per year, waste disposal and recycling
will become critical issues. As current landfill space
shrinks and opposition to new landfills grows,
alternative waste management strategies are needed that
have water quality protection at the forefront. About
70% of today’s wastes are non-hazardous organic
materials that are “cleaner” than ever before (e.g., low
in heavy metals and hazardous constituents). Biosolids
and composts made from municipal solid waste and/or yard
trimmings can be safely applied to land with negligible
threat to water quality if properly managed. However,
local laws and ordinances may prohibit land application
even though science advocates that the practice is
sustainable. The objective of this focus area is to
support regional planning, collaboration and information
sharing to enhance the delivery of science-based
education to local governments, waste generators,
haulers, applicators and land owners regarding
sustainable land application of non-hazardous wastes
consistent with water quality protection.
Florida's state agencies have worked towards achieving waste
reduction and pollution prevention through recycling and
good waste management techniques. In 1999, according to FDEP, through recycling alone Florida citizens were able
to divert more than 6 million tons of solid waste from
landfills.
Nonpoint source management programs introduced by the
FDEP are implemented through the water management
districts. The programs included in the nonpoint source
management programs are stormwater management, nonpoint
source management program under the Florida Clean Water
Act, coastal nonpoint source management, and the clean
lakes program.
Expected Impacts of Extension Program
Enhanced regional and multi-agency collaboration.
Increased knowledge and understanding of sustainable
land application practices
Reduced non-point source pollution from leaky landfills
or improperly managed wastes resulting in maintained or
improved water quality.
Resources
Some resources related to the waste and
wastewater management can be followed through these
links:
Florida Department of Environmental
Protection (Waste Management)
Florida Center for Solid and Hazardous Waste Management
Florida Department of Environmental
Protection (Wastewater Management)
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