Challenges
Organizations face many challenges when managing plastic waste. We describe several of those challenges below.
On this page:
- Weak Strategic Planning
- Lack of Solid Waste Management Systems and Infrastructure
- High Cost of Collection and Transportation
- Shortage of Funding
- Lack of Data and Research
Weak Strategic Planning
A strategic plan for a solid waste management program outlines the strategy and goals of the program, identifying key projects, policies, costs, and the timeline necessary to reach such goals. A weak strategic plan can limit the effectiveness of solid waste management efforts. For example, weak strategic planning may result in a lack of skilled managers and operators necessary to perform tasks in the solid waste management system.
Lack of Solid Waste Management Systems and Infrastructure
Infrastructure for solid waste management has not kept up with the growing manufacturing and usage of single-use plastic products. Localities may struggle to manage plastic waste due to limited availability of waste collection, treatment, and disposal options. They may also lack effective reuse (including refill) systems, which, when in place, can drastically reduce the disposal of plastic products.
High Cost of Collection and Transportation
The high cost of transportation can present a barrier for some solid waste management providers as well as customers. According to a 2022 study, this barrier is even more prevalent in small jurisdictions where recycling rates range from zero to 5%. In some places, waste collection services are privately owned utilities with high operational costs and service fees. To avoid paying expensive fees, some residents opt to illegally dump or burn their waste instead.
Shortage of Funding
Lack of funding can pose a key obstacle for localities that wish to purchase or maintain large-scale, locally appropriate technology that can prevent or capture plastics from entering waterways. For more information, refer to the Recycling Markets companion chapter (pdf)(29.5 MB) to the Best Practices for Solid Waste Management: A Guide for Decision-Makers in Developing Countries. EPA is working to combat funding shortages through grants from the Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling Grant Program.