CHICAGO - The National Solid Wastes Management Association – Illinois Chapter (NSWMA-IL) applauds Governor Quinn for signing legislation strengthening environmental protections and establishing stronger oversight of the recycling and waste management practices in Illinois.  House Bill 4986 establishes the Task Force on the Advancement of Materials Recycling in an effort to ensure current practices are efficient and to identify new ways in which waste materials may be used.

“Governor Quinn took a strong stance for strengthening environmental protections by establishing this task force,” said Bob Pfister, Chair of the NSWMA-IL. “We are pleased our elected leaders recognize the importance of what we do and will include the appointment of two representatives from the solid wastes industry to participate in evaluating current procedures and provide recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly on ways we can improve waste management and recycling operations in Illinois.”

The task force, made up of 21 appointed members including legislators, economic and environmental agency representatives and industry professionals, will analyze recycling and waste management policies, initiatives and funding in Illinois. Upon the completion of the 2-year study, the task force will report their findings and recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly for proposed policy changes to current operations. The bill sets the stage for better industry standards recognizing the need to fill gaps in the current system and to ultimately ensure good stewardship of the environment. The bill also sets the precedent for recycling and composting standards each county is required to meet in their established waste management plans.

The National Solid Wastes Management Association Illinois Chapter (NSWMA-IL) represents member companies conducting business in Illinois, particularly in the Chicagoland area. Our mission is to promote the management of waste and recycling practices in a manner that is environmentally responsible, efficient, profitable and ethical – while benefiting the public and protecting employees.  For more information, visit:  http://www.illinoisgarbagefacts.com

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