Committee News
John Carlton
Chair, Solid Waste Management Committee
Public works solid waste and recycling professionals are essential to creating healthy, sustainable, livable, and workable communities. Every day, our professionals perform critical tasks that keep our neighborhoods clean, protect public health, and support environmental stewardship. They are on the front line of public works delivering services to the community. We do not celebrate them as much as we should, but we hear about it when there is a disruption in service.
APWA’s Solid Waste Management Committee is working to advance our practice by providing education, resources, and engagement for our members. The committee thrives because of the passion and expertise of its members, and we are always looking for more voices to join the conversation. If you are interested in shaping the future of solid waste management, consider becoming part of our knowledge team. If you are interested in the knowledge team, please email SWMC@apwa.org.
Transforming the Future of Solid Waste through Intelligent Technologies: AI in Action
Attend our upcoming Click, Listen & Learn session focused on the latest technological innovations that improve safety and efficiency in solid waste operations. Technology is transforming waste collection, education, and processing. Artificial Intelligence (AI), route optimization advanced sensors, cameras, and GIS tools are some of the technologies that are transforming how we manage solid waste and recycling.
Solid Waste Rate Setting and Financing Guide
Financial sustainability is critical for solid waste programs. To support this, the committee is updating the Solid Waste Rate Setting and Financing Guide. This resource will help agencies develop fair, transparent, and resilient rate structures that ensure long-term program viability while meeting community needs.
Collaboration with Other Committees
We are advancing collaborations with APWA’s Emergency Management Committee and Sustainability and Resiliency Committee to update and expand toolboxes that help agencies prepare for emergencies and build resilient systems. We are also investigating strategic partnerships to improve safety within our profession.
Trending Resources
Public Works Benchmarks: Solid Waste
APWA conducted a pilot benchmarking survey in 2022 of 150 agencies across the United States. This document presents a detailed overview of key metrics pertaining to solid waste collection, providing insights into the operational dynamics and resource utilization within these organizations.
Understanding the Safety Risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries
In this episode of APWA’s podcast, Public Works Radio, listeners hear stories from three guests who are on the front lines of these hazards every day and what they’d like to see done by the public to help address the problem.
Solid Waste Management New Directors Guides
The Solid Waste Management New Director’s Guide, Collections and Post Collections, was created to provide a foundation for new directors who may not have a strong knowledge base for solid waste collections and post collections.
Solid Waste Management New Directors Guide: Collections
Solid Waste Management New Directors Guide: Post Collections
2025 Solid Waste Summit
The Summit highlighted the importance of maintaining a healthy fleet to minimize downtime. Fleet managers play a critical role across all areas of public works—without a reliable, well-maintained fleet, delivering essential public services simply isn’t possible. Fleet reliability is foundational to efficient solid waste operations, making this is an ideal moment for professionals in the field to deepen their expertise and advance their careers.
If you’re committed to strengthening fleet performance and supporting the critical work of public works agencies, consider becoming a Certified Public Fleet Professional (CPFP). This nationally recognized credential validates your technical knowledge, leadership skills, and strategic understanding of fleet operations, positioning you to contribute even more effectively to your agency’s success.
Explore CareerZone
CareerZone is a centralized resource hub designed to support public works professionals at any stage of their career, from exploring the field to advancing in their roles. Users can access resources to find, get, and succeed in a job; explore career progression and salary insights; and receive personalized guidance based on their skills and interests. Check it out at careerzone.apwa.org.
