Waste Not: Strategies to Reduce Ann Arbor's MSW & Improve Diversion in the Commercial Sector University

Abstract

Ann Arbor has long been regarded as one of the most progressive and sustainable cities in the United States, however Ann Arbor has not continued to support this perception through action in addressing its municipal solid waste (MSW) and resource management. Ann Arbor’s total MSW has increased steadily every year; despite population growth, other comparable cities have seen flat or declining total solid waste. This study reviewed primary and secondary data in order to develop recommendations for Ann Arbor to more sustainably manage its MSW. The methods employed in this research include a survey of Ann Arbor foodservice businesses and a benchmarking study of U.S. cities that have successfully employed waste reduction and diversion strategies. This study concludes that Ann Arbor’s biggest opportunity for waste diversion and reduction lies in its foodservice sector, referred to as “Eating & Drinking Places” per the Washtenaw commercial sector groups. This sector, particularly the downtown area, is facing significant waste management challenges and is interested in new diversion opportunities. In so doing, the sector hopes to adopt more sustainable resource management practices and reduce the cost, space constraints and inconvenience faced as a result of their daily waste.