21st Century Policy Project

Vision for the 21st Century

In 2010, materials are managed as part of a “sustainable” system that resulted from a shift in our thinking and in our framework of incentives and disincentives.  We have shifted from a “take make waste” linear approach to using natural resources and making products to a “systems” approach that incorporates the long-term costs and benefits of natural resource extraction and cross-media environmental impacts.  This system minimizes the use of virgin materials, considers social equity issues, minimizes pollution and discards, and safely manages unavoidable discards as a resource.

Business, government and community organizations are equal partners in a relationship to create a balanced economic, environmental and societal bottom line that moves us in this direction.  This is accomplished through:

• Open access to information in each area;
• Balanced use of economic incentives and regulatory authority; and
• A planned and open process for participation in decision making by all parties.

The Board is an advocate for sustainable materials management practices and their associated benefits to the public/communities, businesses, and to government.  The Board does this through a strong legislative effort, education, practical assistance, up-to-date and comprehensive information on materials management topics, and progressive research and development programs.

As adopted by the Board at its February 23-24, 2000, meeting

Last updated: October 18, 2007