Reducing the degree or intensity of, or eliminating, pollution EPAAbatement is a process that involves the cutting out or lessening of the presence of environmentally damaging pollutants such asgreenhouse gases, or of harmful substances like asbestos and lead.
Enviro News &Businesss
The process by which an old and/or disused building is refurbished for a new purpose (e.g. when an defunct hotel is turned into ahousing complex, an empty big box store is turned into a community center). Reuse Alliance
An air pollution control device such as a carbon absorber or incinerator that reduces pollution in an exhaust gas. The control deviceusually does not affect the process being controlled and thus is "add-on" technology, as opposed to a scheme to control pollutionthrough altering the basic process itself.
EPA
A standard formula used in diversion rate measurement to offset changes in a jurisdiction's population and economic conditionsbetween the base year and the measurement year. Without the adjustment method, population growth and economic booms wouldresult in lower diversion rates
CalRecycle
Consumer payment made by the consumer at the time of product purchase to cover all future costs—including environmentalcosts—for recycling or disposal of that product. CalRecycle
A level of wastewater treatment more stringent than secondary treatment; requires an 85% reduction in conventional pollutantconcentration, or a significant reduction in non-conventional pollutants. Sometimes called tertiary treatment EPA
Any treatment of sewage that goes beyond the secondary or biological water treatment stage and includes the removal of nutrientssuch as pophorous and nitrogen and a high percentage of suspended soils EPA
Sewage water that has had a high percentage of suspended solids and contaminants removed is considered to have gone throughthe process of Advanced Wastewater Treatment.
Enviro News &Businesss
A holding and/or treatment pond that speeds up the natural process of biological decomposition of organic waste by stimulating thegrowth and activity of bacteria that degrade organic waste EPA
Forced aeration method of composting in which a free-standing composting pile is aerated by a blower moving air throughperforated pipes located beneath the pile (On Farm Composting Handbook)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Life or processes that require, or are not destroyed by, the presence of oxygen. EPAProcess by which microbes decompose complex organic compounds in the presence of oxygen and use the liberated energy forreproduction and growth. (Such processes include extended aeration, trickling filtration and rotating biological contractors). EPA
Under the Clean Air Act, landfills that meet criteria for capacity, age, and emissions rates set by the EPA. They are required tocollect and combust their gas emissions. EPA
Farming wastes, including runoff and leaching of pesticides and fertilizers; erosion and dust from plowing; improper disposal ofanimal manure and carcasses; crop residues, and debris. EPA
Agricultural pollution results from the waste produced by the farming industry. This pollution includes the dust generated whenploughing takes place, and the effects of incorrectly disposing of manure.
Enviro News &Businesss
Poultry and livestock manure, and residual materials in liquid or solid form generated from the production and marketing of poultry,livestock or fur-bearing animals; also includes grain, vegetable, and fruit harvest residue. EPA
Poultry and livestock manure, or residual materials in liquid or solid form, generated in the production and marketing of poultry,livestock, fur-bearing animals and their products, provided such waste is not a hazardous waste. The term includes the residualmaterials generated in producing, harvesting, and marketing of all agronomic, horticultural, silvicultural and agricultural crops orcommodities grown on what are usually recognized and accepted as farms, forests or other agricultural lands.
ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
The presence in the outdoor atmosphere of one or more air pollutants or any combination thereof (Section 22a-170 of theConnecticut General Statutes (CGS))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Total suspended particulate matter found in the atmosphere as solid particles or liquid droplets. Chemical composition of particulatesvaries widely, depending on location and time of year. Sources of airborne particulates include: dust, emissions from industrialprocesses, combustion products from the burning of wood and coal, combustion products associated with motor vehicle or non-roadengine exhausts, and reactions to gases in the atmosphere.
EPA
Total suspended particulate matter found in the atmosphere as solid particles or liquid droplets (EPA Glossary)Connecticut
Department ofEnergy and EP
Release of any pollutant into the air EPA
Term Definition Source
AAbatement
Adaptive Reuse
Add-on Control Device
Adjustment Method
Advanced DisposalFee (ADF)
Advanced Treatment
Advanced WastewaterTreatment
Aerated Lagoon
Aerated Static Pile
Aerobic
Aerobic Treatment
Affected Landfill
Agricultural Pollution
Agricultural Waste
Air Pollution
Airborne Particulates
Airborne Release
Substitutes for traditional liquid, oil-derived motor vehicle fuels like gasoline and diesel. Includes mixtures of alcohol-based fuels withgasoline methanol, ethanol, compressed natural gas, and others. EPA
Aluminum cans are lightweight, convenient, portable, and used to package beverages. Recycling cans contributes to a process thatconserves natural resources and saves money compared to manufacturing cans from virgin materials. Re-TRAC Connect
Voluntary standards development organization, considered a trusted source for technical standards for materials, products, systems,and services. (ASTM)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
A life or process that occurs in, or is not destroyed by, the absence of oxygen. EPAReduction of the net energy level and change in chemical composition of organic matter caused by microorganisms in an oxygen-free environment EPA
A geologic formation, group of formations or part of a formation that contains sufficient saturated, permeable materials to yieldsignificant quantities of water to wells and springs (CGS Section 22a-354h (6))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Coverings such as paint and roof tar that are used on exteriors of buildings. EPAAsbestos is a natural fibre which occurs in several forms and which was, at one time, widely employed in the building trade. It isalso, however, notorious for being highly carcinogenic and capable of inducing the condition asbestosis, a verdict that has led tosevere restrictions on its use.
Enviro News &Businesss
A mineral fiber that can pollute air or water and cause cancer or asbestosis when inhaled. EPA has banned or severely restricted itsuse in manufacturing and construction. (EPA Glossary)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
The mineral content of a product remaining after complete combustion. EPA
Bottom ash, air pollution control residue and other residuals of the combustion process from an incinerator utilized for thecombustion of municipal solid waste. (CGS Section 22a-285 (1))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Any of several processes for recovering resources from the organic portion of the waste stream (Ex.: Fluid bed incineration;Pyrolysis; Composting; Combustion; Fiber reclamation).
Global RecyclingNetwork
Microscopic living organisms that can aid in pollution control by metabolizing organiz matter in sewage, oil spills or other pollutants.However, bacteria in soil, water or air can also cause human, animal and plant health problems. EPA
Bacteria are minute organisms capable of breaking down organic matter and, thus, acting against the spread of pollution caused byoil spills or present in sewage. Bacteria, however, can also have a negative effect on the natural world, posing a health risk tohumans, plants and animals when present in soil, in air or in liquid.
Enviro News &Businesss
A type of Pay-As-You-Throw system which is enforced by charging residents or businesses for specialized bags. The cost per bagwill vary by system and some programs may offer one or more free bags each collection interval. (EPA) Re-TRAC Connect
Compacting solid waste into blocks to reduce volume and simplify handling. EPA
A machine which compacts waste or recycling materials to reduce volume, usually into rectangular bundles.ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
A densified and bound cube of recycled materials (Business Recycling Manual, INFORM & Recourse Systems, 1991)Connecticut
Department ofEnergy and EP
The mechanical processing of waste glass to decontaminate it and crush it to a more uniform size. Global RecyclingNetworkMethods that have been determined to be the most effective, practical means of preventing or reducing pollution from non-pointsources. EPA
Beverage containers with steel bodies and aluminum tops; handled differently from pure aluminum in recycling. EPA
A can made from two or more metals, usually steel and tin or aluminum. Generally used to refer to beverage cans with steel bodiesand aluminum tops, whereas "steel"; or "tin" generally refer to steel cans coated with tin.
ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
Capable of decomposing under natural conditions. EPA
Term Definition SourceAlternative Fuels
Aluminum Cans
American Society forTesting and MaterialsInternational (ASTM)
AnaerobicAnaerobic
Decomposition
Aquifer
Architectural Coatings
Asbestos
Ash
B
Back-End System
Bacteria
Bagged
Bale(r)
Benefication
Best ManagementPractice (BMP)
Bi-Metal Can
Biodegradable
Able to break down or decompose rapidly under natural conditions and processes. Global RecyclingNetwork
The Biodegradable Products Institute is a multi-stakeholder association of key individuals and groups from government, industry andacademia, which promotes the use, and recycling of biodegradable polymeric materials (via composting). (BPI)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
A degradable plastic in which the degradation results from the action of naturally occurring microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi,and algae. (ASTM Standard Specification D6400)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
An indirect measure of the concentration of biologically degradable material present in organic wastes. It usually reflects the amountof oxygen consumed in five days by biological processes breaking down organic waste. EPA
The amount of oxygen needed for aerobic microorganisms to function in organic-rich water such as sewage. Global RecyclingNetworkA treatment technology that uses bacteria to consume organic waste EPA
Technology that uses bacteria to consume waste/ organic materials. Global RecyclingNetworkAll of the living material in a given area; often refers to vegetation. EPAControlled burning of specified organic materials, such as wood waste, agricultural crop residues, leaves, grass clippings, andprunings to produce electricity or heat CalRecycle
The amount of dissolved oxygen consumed in five days by biological processes breaking down organic matter. EPA
Containers meant to receive beverage bottles which people drop off to be recycled. Global RecyclingNetworkProposed or enacted legislation which requires a returnable deposit on beer or soda containers and provides for retail store or otherredemption. Such legislation is designed to discourage use of throw-away containers. EPA
A law requiring deposits on beverage containers. Global RecyclingNetworkThe non-airborne combustion residue from burning pulverized coal in a boiler; the material which falls to the bottom of the boiler andis removed mechanically; a concentration of non-combustible materials, which may include toxics. EPA
A company or individual business which acts as an intermediary by buying sustainable materials, sometimes adding value to thematerials and then re-selling them on the market for a higher beneficial use. Re-TRAC Connect
Computers, televisions, radios and other home electronics. Named during the days when many televisions and radios had wood orfake wood cabinets. CalRecycle
Obsolete electronic products, such as radios and televisions. Global RecyclingNetworkLarge items of waste materials, such as appliances, furniture, large auto parts, trees, stumps. EPA
Large items of solid waste including, but not limited to; appliances, furniture, large auto parts, trees, branches or stumps which mayrequire special handling due to their size, shape or weight.
ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
Large items of waste materials, such as appliances, furniture, large auto parts, trees, stumps. (Section 22a-208a-1 (10) of theRegulations of Connecticut State Agencies (RCSA))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Facility where individuals or groups bring reyclables in return for payment. EPAFacility where individuals or groups bring reyclables in return for payment. Re-TRAC Connect
A recycling facility that purchases small amounts of secondary materials from the public. Global RecyclingNetwork
A layer of clay, or other impermeable material installed over the top of a closed landfill to prevent entry of rainwater and minimizeleachate. EPA
The capture rate tells us how much of what should be recycled is actually being recycled, and is calculated from records of collectedtonnages divided by total tons of available recyclables. Re-TRAC Connect
The percentage of generated secondary materials actually recovered from a household or business. Global RecyclingNetwork
Term Definition Source
BiodegradablePackaging Institute
(BPI)
Biodegradable Plastic
Biological OxygenDemand (BOD)
Biological Treatment
Biomass
BOD5
Bottle Bank
Bottle Bill
Bottom Ash
Broker
Brown Goods
Bulky Waste
Buy-Back Center
C
Cap
Capture Rate
The total amount of greenhouse gases emitted directly and indirectly to support human activities, usually expressed in equivalenttons of either carbon or carbon dioxide.
The Dictionary ofSustainable
ManagementA carbon footprint is a specific type of ecological footprint, and a measure of the greenhouse gas emissions for which a particularperson, product, corporation or event is directly or indirectly responsible.
Enviro News &Businesss
A measure of the impact our activities have on the environment, and in particular climate change. (Carbonfootprint.com)Connecticut
Department ofEnergy and EP
A family of inert, nontoxic, and easily liquefied chemicals used in refrigeration, air conditioning, packaging, insulation, or as solventsand aerosol propellants. Because CFCs are not destroyed in the lower atmosphere they drift into the upper atmosphere where theirchlorine components destroy ozone. are not destroyed in the lower atmosphere they drift into the upper atmosphere where theirchlorine components destroy ozone.
EPA
Family of inert, nontoxic and easily liquified chemicals manufactured for use as coolants, cleaning solvents, plastic, aerosolpropellants and foam insulation.
Global RecyclingNetwork
Chlorofluorocarbons are a group of inactive chemicals historically employed in a variety of scenarios such as in refrigeration and inaerosol cans. Their association with ozone layer damage led to a ban being imposed on CFC production in recent years.
Enviro News &Businesss
Any wood which is derived from such products as pallets, skids, spools, packaging materials, bulky wood waste, or scraps fromnewly built wood products. (RCSA Section 22a-208a-1 (11))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
The term 'climate change' is sometimes used to refer to all forms of climatic inconsistency, but because the Earth's climate is neverstatic, the term is more properly used to imply a significant change from one climatic condition to another. In some cases, 'climatechange' has been used synonymously with the term, 'global warming; scientists however, tend to use the term in the wider sense toalso include natural changes in climate.
EPA
Climate change refers, in theory, to a sustained weather-related change affecting either a specific area or a much wider one, interms of shifts in temperature, rainfall and/or wind. Such change can refer to a natural process but, in modern times, it has becomeassociated with human activity and the release of greenhouse gases.
Enviro News &Businesss
The collection of bagged recyclables together with other municipal garbage, separated later for recycling or disposal. Global RecyclingNetworkAn economic model based on the reuse (sharing, swapping, trading, renting) of goods, thereby encouraging access to goods overownership of goods. Synomous with sharing economy. Reuse Alliance
Public or private hauler that collects nonhazardous waste and recyclable materials from residential, commercial, institutional andindustrial sources. EPA
An entity providing materials and/or solid waste collection services in a community or region. A collection service provider could be apublic, private, or non-profit entity. Re-TRAC Connect
Commercial sector waste comes from all businesses, small and large, including wholesale and retail sales, restaurants,manufacturing, and transport. The commercial sector also includes government, schools, institutions, fairs and expositions, andother special events.
CalRecycle
Mixed recyclables that are collected together. EPARefers to different types of recyclable materials combined (mixed together). Commingled recyclable materials typically requiresorting after collection before they can be processed for recycling. Re-TRAC Connect
Mixed recyclables that are collected or processed together. Global RecyclingNetwork
Recyclable materials that are mixed together for collection. Commingled materials must be separated after collection for shipment toend users.
ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
Mixed recyclables that are collected together. (Business Recycling Manual, INFORM & Recourse Systems, 1991)Connecticut
Department ofEnergy and EP
Mechanical shredding or pulverizing of waste. Used in both solid waste management and wastewater treatment. EPA
Mechanical shredding or pulverizing of waste; used in solid and water waste treatment. Global RecyclingNetwork
Term Definition Source
Carbon Footprint
Chlorofluorocarbons(CFC)
Clean Wood
Climate Change
Co-Collection
CollaborativeConsumption
Collector
Commercial Sector
Commingledrecyclables
Comminution
Small fluorescent lamps used as more efficient alternatives to incandescent lighting. (EPA Glossary)Connecticut
Department ofEnergy and EP
Reduction of the bulk of solid waste by rolling and tamping. EPA
Any power-driven mechanical equipment designed to compress waste materials. Usually attached to an enclosed rolloff container.ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
A humus or soil-like material created from aerobic, microbial decomposition of organic materials such as food scraps, yardtrimmings, and manure. EPA
A mixture of garbage, degradable trash and soil in which bacteria in the soil break down the mixture into a soil conditioner (not afertilizer). It has high organic content but low nitrogen.
Global RecyclingNetwork
Compost is produced when organic matter decomposes with the help of air. It has multiple environmental applications, includingfertilisation, soil conditioning and, away from the fields, in the wetland-build process.
Enviro News &Businesss
Capable of undergoing biological decomposition in a compost site as part of an available program, such that the material is notvisually distinguishable and breaks down into carbon dioxide, water, inorganic compounds, and biomass, at a rate consistent withknown compostable materials. (ASTM Standard Specification D6002)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
A plastic that undergoes degradation by biological processes during composting to yield CO2, water, inorganic compounds, andbiomass at a rate consistent with other known compostable materials and leave no visible, distinguishable or toxic residue. (ASTMStandard Specification D6400)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
The controlled biological decomposition of organic material in the presence of air to form a humus-like material. Controlled methodsof composting include mechanical mixing and aerating, ventilating the materials by dropping them through a vertical series ofaerated chambers, or placing the compost in piles out in the open air and mixing it or turning it periodically.
EPA
The process of collecting, grinding, mixing, piling, and supplying sufficient moisture and air to organic materials to speed naturaldecay. CalRecycle
Compost is organic material that can be used as a soil amendment or as a medium to grow plants. Mature compost is a stablematerial with content called humus that is dark brown or black and has a soil-like, earthy smell. It is created by: combining organicwastes (e.g., yard trimmings, food wastes, manures) in proper ratios into piles, rows, or vessels; adding bulking agents (e.g., woodchips) as necessary to accelerate the breakdown of organic materials; and allowing the finished material to fully stabilize and maturethrough a curing process. (EPA)
Re-TRAC Connect
A controlled process that breaks organic matter into a stable material called humus.ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
A process of accelerated biological decomposition of organic material under controlled conditions. (CGS Section 22a-207a (1))Connecticut
Department ofEnergy and EP
(1) An offsite facility where the organic component of municipal solid waste is decomposed under controlled conditions.(2) An aerobic process in which organic materials are ground or shredded and then decomposed to humus in windrow piles or inmechanical digesters, drums, or similar enclosures.
EPA
Waste building materials, dredging materials, tree stumps, and rubble resulting from construction, remodeling, repair, and demolitionof homes, commercial buildings and other structures and pavements. May contain lead, asbestos, or other hazardous substances. EPA
Building materials and solid waste from construction, deconstruction, remodeling, repair, cleanup, or demolition operations that arenot "hazardous" CalRecycle
Construction and demolition (C and D) materials consist of the debris generated during the construction, renovation, and demolitionof buildings, roads, and bridges. (EPA) Re-TRAC Connect
All municipal and residual waste building materials, grubbing waste, and rubble resulting from construction, remodeling, repair anddemolition operations on houses, commercial buildings and other structures and pavement.
ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
Waste building materials and packaging resulting from construction, remodeling, repair and demolition operations. (CGS Section22a-208x (1); RCSA Section 22a-208a (13))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
A volume reduction plant, the operations of which involve solely the reduction in volume of construction and demolition wastegenerated elsewhere. (RCSA Section 22a-208a (14))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Term Definition SourceCompact Fluorescent
Lamp (CFL)
Compaction
Compost
Compostable
Compostable Plastic
Composting
Composting Facility
Construction andDemolition Waste
(C&D Waste)
Construction andDemolition WasteProcessing Facility
Any physical, chemical, biological, or radiological substance or matter that has an adverse effect on air, water, or soil. EPA
Material of one type that is an impurity for another type of material. For example, metal is a contaminant in plastic recycling.ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
Introduction into water, air, and soil of microorganisms, chemicals, toxic substances, wastes, or wastewater in a concentration thatmakes the medium unfit for its next intended use. Also applies to surfaces of objects, buildings, and various household andagricultural use products.
EPA
Collection by a private collector under a formal agreement with a municipal authority in which the rights and duties of the respectiveparties are set forth. (CGS Section 22a-207 (17))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
When the item is used again as-is for the same function it was manufactured for. Reuse Alliance
Structural paper material with an inner core shaped in rigid parallel furrows and ridges. Does not refer to linerboard or paperboardsuch as that use for cereal boxes.
ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
Soil used to cover compacted solid waste in a sanitary landfill. EPAA procedure in which hazardous materials are identified and followed as they are produced, treated, transported, and disposed of bya series of permanent, linkable, descriptive documents (e.g. manifests). EPA
A system that handles solid waste from creation through disposal. Global RecyclingNetworkThis framework seeks to create production techniques that are not just efficient but are essentially waste free. In cradle to cradleproduction all material inputs and outputs are seen either as technical or biological nutrients. Technical nutrients can be recycled orreused with no loss of quality and biological nutrients composted or consumed.
The Dictionary ofSustainable
ManagementIs when the addition of innovation/creativity brings a new function to unwanted materials (e.g. furniture made of old sign posts,jewelry made of scrap materials). Synonymous with upcycling and repurposing. Reuse Alliance
Ground rubber fragments the size of sand or silt used in rubber or plastic products, or processed further into reclaimed rubber orasphalt products. EPA
Process in which flexible substances are made brittle by cooling to extremely low temperatures, using liquid nitrogen and groundrubber.
Global RecyclingNetwork
Crushed glass. EPACrushed glass which can be added to a batch of new materials in the manufacturing of new glass products. It increases the rate ofheat gain by batch and reduces fuel costs. Domestic cullet if produced in house during the manufacturing process. Foreign cullet if itcomes from an external source.
Global RecyclingNetwork
Clean, color-sorted, crushed glass that is used in glass making to speed up the melting of silica sand. The use of cullet reducesenergy costs of glass manufacturing.
ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
Method of collecting recyclable materials at homes, community districts or businesses. EPAA method of collecting recyclables, organic materials, and/or waste at individual homes or places of business by collection serviceproviders for transfer to a designated collection site, processing facility, or disposal facilities. Re-TRAC Connect
The breakdown of matter by bacteria and fungi, changing the chemical makeup and physical appearance of materials. EPADecomposition refers to the disintegration of organisms due to the intervention of fungi and bacteria a process that alters theorganisms chemical properties and appearance. The speed at which decomposition can take place depends upon many factorsincluding environmental features like temperature and air quality.
Enviro News &Businesss
Is the process of selectively dismantling a building into its components so that materials can be reused and/or recycled. It differsfrom demolition, where reuse and recycling are not taken into consideration. Reuse Alliance
A technique practitioners are using to salvage valuable building materials, reduce the amount of waste they send to landfills, andmitigate other environmental impacts. It is the disassembly of a building and the recovery of its materials, often thought of asconstruction in reverse. (EPA, Lifecycle Construction Resource Guide)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Removal of harmful substances such as noxious chemicals, harmful bacteria or other organisms, or radioactive material fromexposed individuals, rooms and furnishings in buildings, or the exterior environment. EPA
Term Definition Source
Contaminant
Contamination
Contract Collection
Conventional Reuse
Corrugated cardboard
Cover Material
Cradle-to-Grave orManifest System
Creative Reuse
Crumb Rubber
Cryogenic SizeReduction
Cullet
Curbside Collection
D
Decomposition
Deconstruction
Decontamination
A plastic designed to undergo a significant change in its chemical structure under specific environmental conditions. (ASTMStandard Specification D6400)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Prices whereby consumers use purchasing decisions to communicate to product manufacturers that they prefer environmentallysound products packaged with the least amount of waste, made from recycled or recyclable materials, and containing no hazardoussubstances.
EPA
Emissions from sources that are owned or operated, in whole or in part, by an entity or facility. (CGS Section 22a-200 (1))Connecticut
Department ofEnergy and EP
Consumer products, other items, and packaging used once or a few times and discarded. EPA
Consumer products, items and packaging used once or a few times and discarded.ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
Final placement or destruction of toxic, radioactive, or other wastes; surplus or banned pesticides or other chemicals; polluted soils;and drums containing hazardous materials from removal actions or accidental releases. Disposal may be accomplished through useof approved secure landfills, surface impoundments, land farming, deep-well injection, ocean dumping, or incineration.
EPA
All waste created by all sources within each jurisdiction (including businesses, government agencies and residents) which isdisposed at CalRecycle-permitted landfills or CalRecycle-permitted transformation facilities, or is exported from the state. CalRecycle
The incineration, deposition, injection, dumping, spilling, leaking or placing of solid waste into or on the land or water in a mannerthat the solid waste or a constituent of the solid waste enters the environment, is emitted into the air or is discharged into the waters.
ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
(1) Use of part of a stream flow as water supply.(2) A channel with a supporting ridge on the lower side constructed across a slope to divert water at a non-erosive velocity to siteswhere it can be used and disposed of.
EPA
For waste measurement purposes, diversion is any combination of waste prevention (source reduction), recycling, reuse andcomposting activities that reduces waste disposed at CalRecycle-permitted landfills and transformation facilities. CalRecycle
A financial incentive provided to municipalities or private recycling operations based on the tonnage diverted from the waste stream. Global RecyclingNetworkThe percentage of waste materials diverted from traditional disposal such as landfilling or incineration to be recycled, composted, orre-used. EPA
The percentage of its total waste that a jurisdiction diverted from disposal at CalRecycle-permitted landfills and transformationfacilities through reduction, reuse, recycling programs, and composting programs. CalRecycle
The percentage of material that has been diverted from, and prevented from being disposed in, a waste disposal facility throughreuse, recycling, or composting. Re-TRAC Connect
Recyclable materials collection method in which individuals bring them to a designated collection site. EPAAn installed or mobile collection station typically designated, through container design and signage, for the collection of specificmaterials such as reusable materials, organics, recyclables, household hazardous waste, or waste. People transport and leavematerials at a depot or a drop-off station.
Re-TRAC Connect
A central, predesignated area, building, or facility set up to receive recyclables which are dropped off by individuals. (BusinessRecycling Manual)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Recovered materials are received in two streams, typically fiber (newspaper, magazines and catalogs, mixed paper, cardboard, etc.)and commingled containers (plastic, glass, metal, and sometimes aseptic containers). Separation of materials is accomplished by acombination of automated equipment and manual sorting.
Re-TRAC Connect
Collection system where recyclables are funneled into two streams – usually one is paper/fiber and the other is containers. (CTDEEP)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
A site used to dispose of solid waste without environmental controls. EPAGoods that are designed to be used for many years and/or to replace disposables/single-use items. See also reusables. Reuse Alliance
Sturdy items, like furniture or appliances, that can be used for many years. When people repair these products instead of buyingnew ones, they save money and reduce waste. (EPA Mission to Earth/Kids Glossary)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Term Definition Source
Degradable Plastic
Demand-side WasteManagement
Direct Emissions
Disposables
Disposal
Diversion
Diversion Credits
Diversion Rate
Drop-off Center
Dual Stream
Dump
Durables
Include TVs and other video equipment, computers, assorted peripherals, audio equipment, and phones, among others. It is wholeelectronic equipment or parts that are readily marketable for reuse or can be recycled for materials recovery. Re-TRAC Connect
includes all non-renewable energy, direct and indirect, used to transform or transport raw materials into products and buildings,including inherent energy contained in raw or feedstock materials that are also used as common energy sources. (The AthenaInsitute)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Consumer of products for the purpose of recycling. Excludes products for re-use or combustion for energy recovery. EPARefers to the user of material that has been diverted from a waste disposal facility and returned to the materials economy(marketplace) as a feedstock or raw material. Re-TRAC Connect
Obtaining energy from wasteHelp waste Refuse from places of human or animal habitation. through a variety of processes (e.g.combustion) EPA
Equal protection from environmental hazards for individuals, groups, or communities regardless of race, ethnicity, or economicstatus. (EPA Glossary)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Product stewardship is a product-centered approach to environmental protection. Also known as extended product responsibility(EPR), product stewardship calls on those in the product life cycle-manufacturers, retailers, users, and disposers-to shareresponsibility for reducing the environmental impacts of products.
Re-TRAC Connect
Environmental protection strategy to reach an environmental objective of a decreased total environmental impact from a product, bymaking the manufacturer of the product responsible for the entire life-cycle of the product and especially for the take-back, recyclingand final disposal of the product. (Thomas Lindhqvist, Towards an Extended Producer Responsibility, April 1992 via Institute ofLocal Self Reliance)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Liquid fats and solid meat products are materials that should not be sent to landfills or disposed of in the sanitary sewer system.Fats, oils, and grease (FOG) can clog pipes and pumps both in the public sewer lines as well as in wastewater treatment facilities.This prevents combined sewer overflows, which protects water quality and lowers bills. FOG should be sent to the rendering industryto be made into another product, converted to biofuels, or sent to an anaerobic digester.
EPA
Magnetic metals derived from iron or steel; products made from ferrous metals include appliances, furniture, containers, andpackaging like steel drums and barrels. Recycled products include processing tin/steel cans, strapping, and metals from appliancesinto new products.
EPA
Metals which contain iron. These metals may have small amounts of other elements added, to give the required properties. Allferrous metals are magnetic and give little resistance to corrosion. Re-TRAC Connect
Iron and steel products, including tin coated food and beverage cans.ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
Man-made deposits of natural soils or rock products and waste materials EPALocal ordinance controlling, or giving a municipal official authority to control, the collection and/or disposal of municipal solid wasteproduced in a specific geographical area.
Global RecyclingNetwork
Non-combustible residual particles expelled by flue gas. EPAA sequence of organisms, each of which uses the next, lower member of the sequence as a food source EPA
Food residues produced during agricultural and industrial operations. EPA
Uneaten food and food preparation wastes from residences and commercial establishments such as grocery stores, restaurants,and produce stands, institutional cafeterias and kitchens, and industrial sources like employee lunchrooms. EPA
Any food substance, raw or cooked, which is discarded, or intended or required to be discarded. Food wastes are the organicresidues generated by the handling, storage, sale, preparation, cooking, and serving of foods. (EPA) Re-TRAC Connect
Requires a monetary deposit on beverage containers which is returned to the consumer when the containers are returned to theretailer.
Global RecyclingNetwork
Any waste hauler that has a contract granted by a county board of supervisors, after a competitive bidding process, for thecollection, disposal or destruction, or any combination thereof, of garbage, waste, offal or debris. CalRecycle
A system in which certain materials removed from the waste stream are directed toward a specific recovery system such asrecycling or waste to energy incineration.
Global RecyclingNetwork
Term Definition SourceE
E-Scrap (ElectronicWaste)
Embodied Energy
End User (EndMarket)
Energy Recovery
EnvironmentalEquity/Justice
Extended ProducerResponsibility (EPR)
F
Fats, Oils, & Grease
Ferrous Metals
Fill
Flow Control Law
Fly AshFood Chain
Food ProcessingWaste
Food Waste (FoodScraps)
Forced Deposit
Franchise hauler
Front-End Seperation
Animal and vegetable waste resulting from the handling, storage, sale, preparation, cooking, and serving of foods. EPA
Any solid waste derived from animal, grain, fruit or vegetable matter that is capable of being decomposed by microorganisms withsufficient rapidity to cause such nuisances as odors, gases or vectors.
ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
The trade name for a large, reusable corrugated container used for shipping materials. Global RecyclingNetwork
"The trade name for a large reusable corrugated container used for shipping materials (dimensions approximately 40 by 48 by 37inches) (Business Recycling Manual, INFORM & Recourse Systems, 1991)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
The total amount of waste produced by a jurisdiction. The basic formula is disposal plus diversion equals generation. CalRecycle
Rating of waste or recyclable materials into homogenous categories by type and quality. Global RecyclingNetworkSource reduction activities in which grass clippings are left on the lawn after mowing. EPA
The practice of considering all environmental effects of remedy implementation and incorporating options to maximize the netenvironmental benefit of cleanup actions. (EPA CLU-IN)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
The warming of the Earth's atmosphere attributed to a buildup of carbon dioxide or other gases; some scientists think that this build-up allows the sun's rays to heat the Earth, while making the infra-red radiation atmosphere opaque to infra-red radiation, therebypreventing a counterbalancing loss of heat.
EPA
The greenhouse effect occurs when greenhouse gases in the atmosphere trap radiation from the sun. These gases which includecarbon dioxide permit the passing through of sunshine, but absorb the heat thrown up by the earth's surface.
Enviro News &Businesss
A gas, such as carbon dioxide or methane, which contributes to potential climate change. EPAGreenhouse gases are defined as any gases that impact negatively on the environment by contributing to the greenhouse effect,such as carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide and methane. Fossil fuel burning and deforestation are both key greenhouse gas-producingprocesses.
Enviro News &Businesss
Any chemical or physical substance that is emitted into the air and that the Commissioner of Environmental Protection mayreasonably anticipate to cause or contribute to climate change. (CGS Section 22a-200 (4))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
A size reduction technique that usually utilizes a series of rollers. Global RecyclingNetworkThe supply of fresh water found beneath the Earth's surface, usually in aquifers, which supply wells and springs. Because groundwater is a major source of drinking water, there is growing concern over contamination from leaching agricultural or industrialpollutants or leaking underground storage tanks.
EPA
The portion of the water beneath the surface of the earth that can be collected through the use of wells, tunnels, or drainagegalleries. Groundwater also flows naturally to the earth's surface via seeps or springs.
Enviro News &Businesss
A type of incandescent lamp with higher energy-efficiency that standard ones. EPAGarbage collection company that offers complete refuse removal service; many will also collect recyclables. EPA
Any person, firm, co-partnership, association or corporation who has been licensed to collect, transport and dispose of waste for afee. Haulers that handle only recyclable materials are not required to obtain a license.
ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
By-products of society that can pose a substantial or potential hazard to human health or the environment when improperlymanaged. Possesses at least one of four characteristics (ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity), or appears on special EPAlists.
EPA
A hazardous substance is defined as any kind of material that could be detrimental both to the environment and to the preservationof human health. Toxic, explosive or corrosive materials all fall under this category.
Enviro News &Businesss
Any solid waste or combination of solid wastes, as defined in Act 97, which because of its quantity, concentration or physical,chemical or infectious characteristics may; 1) cause or significantly contribute to an increase in mortality or an increase in morbidityin either an individual or the total population; or 2) post a substantial present or potential hazard to human health or the environmentwhen improperly treated, stored, transported, disposed of or otherwise managed.
ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
Term Definition SourceG
Garbage
Gaylord
Generation
Grading
Grasscycling
Green Remediation
Greenhouse Effect
Greenhouse Gas
Grinding
Ground Water
HHalogen
Hauler
Hazardous Waste
Any waste material which may pose a present or potential hazard to human health or the environment when improperly disposed of,treated, stored, transported, or otherwise managed. (CGS Section 22a-115 (1))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Reducing the amount of toxicity or wasteproduced by a facility via source reduction or environmentally sound recycling. EPA
A material used to make plastic bottles and other products that produces toxic fumes when burned. EPALabeled plastic code 2 on the bottom of the container, and refers to a plastic often used to make bottles for milk, juice, water andlaundry products. It is also used to make plastic grocery bags. Re-TRAC Connect
Used to make plastic bottles, milk cartons and other products. It produces toxic fumes when burned. Often referred to as No.2Plastic.
Global RecyclingNetwork
A type of plastic used to make milk jugs and other rigid plastic bottles (City Cycle, 1990) A material used to make plastic bottles andother products that produces toxic fumes when burned. (EPA Glossary)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Individualized set out of recyclables where each household or unit sets out its own container of recyclables for collection from adesignated location or aggregated centralized collection where residents in a multi-family complex all place their recyclables incentral storage containers serving the whole complex.
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Hazardous products used and disposed of by residential as opposed to industrial consumers. Includes paints, stains, varnishes,solvents, pesticides, and other materials or products containing volatile chemicals that can catch fire, react or explode, or that arecorrosive or toxic.
EPA
Hazardous waste materials discarded, typically in small quantities, by households (as opposed to large quantities disposed bybusinesses). Typical household hazardous wastes include used motor oil and oil filters, antifreeze and other vehicle fluids, paintsand varnishes, pesticides, and cleaning supplies.
CalRecycle
Leftover household products that contain corrosive, toxic, ignitable, or reactive ingredients. (EPA) Re-TRAC Connect
Solid waste comprised of garbage and rubbish which originates in the residential private household or apartment house.ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
Solid waste, compposed of garbage and rubbish, which normally orgininates in a private home or apartment house. Domestic wastemay contain a significant amount of toxic or hazardous waste. EPA
The substance which results from decay of plant or animal matter. Biodegradable matters form humus as they decompose. Global RecyclingNetwork
The dark or black carbon-rich relatively stable residue resulting from the decomposition of organic matter. (On Farm CompostingHandbook)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
A lamp that produces light by heating up a filament of wire inside a bulb with an electric current, causing incandescence. The glassbulb containing the filament is filled with a nonreactive gas, such as argon, to prevent the wire from burning. (American HeritageScience Dictionary, 2002 via dictionary.com)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
A treatment technology involving destruction of waste by controlled burning at high temperatures; e.g., burning sludge to remove thewater and reduce the remaining residues to a safe, non-burnable ash that can be disposed of safely on land, in some waters, or inunderground locations.
EPA
Incinerators are used to burn hazardous waste primarily for waste destruction/treatment purposes; however, some energy ormaterial recovery can occur. (EPA) Re-TRAC Connect
Incineration refers to the process of destruction of, or treatment of, waste material by burning it in an incinerator. The activity reducesthis material to ashes, and generates intense heat which can be drawn upon as a power source.
Enviro News &Businesss
A plant designed to reduce waste volume by combustion.ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
Emissions associated with the consumption of purchased electricity, steam and heating or cooling by an entity or facility. (CGSSection 22a-200 (5))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Combinatiion of industrial source reduction and toxic chemical use substitution. EPA
Term Definition Source
Hazardous WasteMinimization
High DensityPolyethylene (HDPE)
Household Collection
Household HazardousWaste (HHW)
Household Waste(Domestic Waste)
Humus
I
Incandescent Lamp
Incineration
Indirect Emissions
Industrial PollutionPreventage
Residues produced during manufacturing operations. EPA
Practices that reduce the amount of any hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant entering any waste stream or otherwisereleased into the environment. Also reduces the threat to public health and the environment associated with such releases. Termincludes equipment or technology modifications, substitution of raw materials, and improvements in housekeeping, maintenance,training or inventory control.
EPA
Unwanted materials from an industrial operation; may be liquid, sludge, soilid, or hazardous waste. EPAThe population in your community living in facilities or institutional settings that manage their own waste and recycling programs.Universities and prisons are some examples. Institutional population is subtracted from Total population to determine NetResidential population for the purposes of calculating the amount of material collected from residential collection programs.
Re-TRAC Connect
Waste generated at institutions such as schools, libraries, hospitals, prisons, etc. EPAUsing a variety of practices to handle municipal solid waste; can include source reduction, recycling, incineration, and landfilling. EPAU.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommendation that promotes solid waste management through an integrated system thatuses resource reduction, recycling, waste to energy incineration and landfilling to manage the reclamation, reuse or disposal ofplastics in the waste stream.
Global RecyclingNetwork
Facility that separates, cleans and bails or packages materials for sale to manufacturers or brokers. Global RecyclingNetworkA facility which can recycle an item or items and market or deliver for reuse the resulting material product or products. Such facilitiesmay be owned by the public or private entities or combinations thereof and may offer service on a state, regional, municipal orsubmunicipal level. (RCSA Section 22a-208a-1-(a) (18))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
facility where glass, metals, paper products, batteries, household hazardous waste, fertilizers and other items are removed from thewaste stream for recycling or reuse. [Often referred to as an Intermediate Processing Center or IPC] (CGS Section 22a-260 (25))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
A facility operated to remove, recover or recycle for reuse mercury, metals, phosphorous powder, gases, glass or other materialsfrom fluorescent or high intensity discharge lamps. Such a facility shall be considered a volume reduction plant. (CGS Section 22a-209e)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Trees, stumps, branches, or other wood generated from clearing land for commercial or residential development, road construction,routine landscaping, agricultural land clearing, storms, or natural disasters. (RCSA Section 22a-208a-1 (a) (19))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
A volume reduction plant, the operations of which involve solely the reduction in volume of land clearing debris or clean woodgenerated elsewhere. (RCSA Section 22a-208a-1 (a) (20))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Total amount of remaining landfill space (in years) of permitted solid waste for disposal. Some states apply volume (cubic yards) orweight (tonnage) to determine remaining capacity. Re-TRAC Connect
Energy recovery from waste is the conversion of non-recyclable waste materials into useable heat, electricity, or fuel through avariety of processes, including combustion, gasification, pyrolization, anaerobic digestion, and landfill gas (LFG) recovery. Thisprocess is often called waste-to-energy (WTE). (EPA)
Re-TRAC Connect
A process used when the gas extraction rates at a landfill do not warrant energy recovery, therefore gas is simply flared (burned) off. Re-TRAC Connect
Definition 1: Sanitary landfills are disposal sites for non-hazardous solid wastes spread in layers, compacted to the smallest practicalvolume, and covered by material applied at the end of each operating day.Definition 2: Secure chemical landfills are disposal sites for hazardous waste, selected and designed to minimize the chance ofrelease of hazardous substances into the environment.
EPA
A private or municipal site where non-hazardous solid or municipal waste is buried. Global RecyclingNetworkA landfill is an area demarcated for the disposal of non-hazardous waste. The waste itself is compressed down in size before ablanket of soil is applied on top, effectively burying it.
Enviro News &Businesss
Person or facility generating more than 2200 pounds of hazardous waste per month. Such generators produce about 90 percent ofthe nation's hazardous waste, and are subject to all RCRA requirements. EPA
Term Definition SourceIndustrial Process
Waste
Industrial SourceReduction
Industrial Waste
InstitutionalPopulation
Institutional Waste
Integrated WasteManagement
IntermediateProcessing Center
(IPC)
IntermediateProcessing Facility
(IPF)L
Lamp RecyclingFacility
Land Clearing Debris
Land Clearing/CleanWood Processing
Facility
Landfill Capacity
Landfilled withEnergy Recovery
Landfilled withFlaring
Landfills
Large QuantityGenerator
Water that collects contaminants as it trickles through wastes, pesticides or fertilizers. Leaching in farming areas, feedlots, andlandfills, and may result in hazardous substances entering surface water, ground water, or soil. EPA
Liquid that passes through, and escapes from, a landfill. The liquid is created from the rainfall and liquids present in the depositedwaste that percolates down through the soil and garbage carrying many toxins with it as it travels to areas surrounding the landfill.
ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
A system that gathers leachate and pumps it to the surface for treatment. EPA
The process by which soluble constituents are dissolved and filtered through the soil by a percolating fluid. EPAAll stages of a product's development, from extraction of fuel for power to production, marketing, use, and disposal. EPALife cycle is a widely-applied term, but in an environmental sense, it can be applied to a product to describe its existence fromconception and development, through manufacture, use and, finally, disposal, at which point it might be fed back into the systemthrough recycling.
Enviro News &Businesss
Definition 1: A relatively impermeable barrier designed to keep leachate inside a landfill. Liner materials include plastic and denseclay.Definition 2: An insert or sleeve for sewer pipes to prevent leakage or infiltration.
EPA
Barrier designed to prevent the leaching of contents from a landfill. Commonly comprised of plastic or dense clay. Global RecyclingNetworkDefinition 1: The highly visible portion of solid waste carelessly discarded outside the regular garbage and trash collection anddisposal system.Definition 2: Leaves and twigs fallen from forest trees.
EPA
Plastic material used for both rigid containers and plastic film applications. EPALabeled plastic code 4, is often used to manufacture plastic dry cleaning bags. LDPE is also used to manufacture some flexible lidsand bottles. (EPA) Re-TRAC Connect
Often referred as No.4 Plastic. Global RecyclingNetwork
A type of product stewardship program whereby households are able to mail their waste consumer product back to themanufacturer. Re-TRAC Connect
Programs which by law require consumers to separate trash so that some or all recyclable materials are recovered for recyclingrather than going to landfills or incinerators EPA
A one-page form used by haulers transporting wastes hat lists EPA identification numbers, type and quantity of waste, the generatorit originated from, the transporter that shipped it, and the storage or disposal facility to which it is being shipped. It includes copies forall participants in the shipping process.
EPA
Hand sorting of recyclable or compostable materials in waste. EPAA labor intensive system of collecting waste, recyclables and/or organics in which workers manually pick up and empty materialcollected in collection bins into the collection vehicle, and then return the bins to their original position. Re-TRAC Connect
The return of recyclables to productive use. Marketing may involve the sale of materials, or be a transaction without pay. In someinstances, marketing may involve payment to a user (City Cycle, 1990)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
The businesses who accept recyclable materials for reuse or processing, either for their own consumption or for resale. A publicagency may also be a market. (City Cycle, 1990)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
A service that facilitates the exchange of goods between an organization that has reusable goods they no longer need to anotherorganization that can use them. Helps divert usable materials from the landfill. These exchanges can be done through brokeringand/or through an automated online interface. Synonymous with materials exchange.
Reuse Alliance
A facility that processes residentially collected mixed recyclables into new products available for market. EPAMore commonly called a MRF (pronounced "Murf"). An intermediate processing facility designed to remove recyclables and othervaluable materials from the waste stream. A "dirty MRF" removes reusable materials from unseparated trash. A "clean MRF"separates materials from commingled recyclables, typically collected from residential or commercial curbside programs.
CalRecycle
A specialized plant that receives separates and prepares recyclable materials for marketing to end-user manufacturers. Re-TRAC ConnectA recycling facility that sorts and processes collected mixed recyclables into individual streams for market. Also known as anintermidiate processing center (IPC).
Global RecyclingNetwork
Term Definition Source
Leachate
Leachate CollectionSystemLeaching
Life Cycle of a Product
Liner
Litter
Low DensityPolyethylene (LDPE)
M
Mail-Back Program
Mandatory Recycling
Manifest
Manual Separation
Marketing
Markets
Materials Exchange
Materials RecoveryFacility (MRF)
A compilation of information required under the OSHA Communication Standard on the identity of hazardous chemicals, health, andphysical hazards, exposure limits, and precautions. Section 311 of SARA requires facilities to submit MSDSs under certaincircumstances.
EPA
A calculation that selects default or standard adjustment factors--population, employment, taxable sales, consumer price index--resulting in the highest diversion rate for a jurisdiction. CalRecycle
Any solid waste generated in the diagnosis, treatment, or immunization of human beings or animals, in research pertaining thereto,or in the production or testing of biologicals, excluding hazardous waste identified or listed under 40 CFR Part 261 or any householdwaste as defined in 40 CFR Sub-section 261.4 (b)(1).
EPA
Untreated medical waste regulated under the Medical Waste Management Act that is not defined as solid waste and cannot bedisposed at CalRecycle-permitted landfills CalRecycle
A colorless, nonpoisonous, flammable gas created by anaerobic decomposition of organiccompounds. A major component of naturalgas used in the home. EPA
A pit in which trash or garbage is buried. Usually only organic garbage. Global RecyclingNetworkA calculation that selects default or standard adjustment factors--population, employment, taxable sales, consumer price index(CPI)--resulting in the lowest diversion rate for a jurisdiction. CalRecycle
Laws requiring a product or type of packaging to contain a certain percentage of recycled material. Global RecyclingNetworkRecovered container glass not sorted into categories (e.g. color, grade). EPA
Recovered metals not sorted into categories such as aluminum, tin, or steel cans or ferrous or non-ferrous metals. (EPA Glossary)Connecticut
Department ofEnergy and EP
Solid waste that has not been sorted into specific categories (such as plastic, glass, yard trimmings, etc.) EPAMunicipal solid waste that consists of mixtures of solid wastes which have not been separated at the source of generation orprocessed into discrete, homogeneous waste streams such as glass, paper, plastic, aluminum or tire waste streams provided suchwastes shall not include any material required to be recycled pursuant to section 22a-241b. (CGS Section 22a-207a (2))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
A volume reduction plant where mixed municipal solid waste is processed using composting technology. (CGS Section 22a-207a(3))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Recovered paper not sorted into categories such as old magazines, old newspapers, old corrugated boxes, etc. EPARecovered plastic unsorted by category. EPAA layer of material (wood chips, straw, leaves, etc.) placed around plants to hold moisture, prevent weed growth, and enrich orsterilize the soil. EPA
The natural and gradual decomposition of dead organic matter that has been evenly distributed in a thin layer on the ground. Global RecyclingNetwork
A protective cover of organic material placed over soil to preserve soil moisture, prevent erosion, or promote the growth of plants.(RCSA Section 22a-209-1)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Any town, city or borough within the state. (CGS Section 22a-207 (11))Connecticut
Department ofEnergy and EP
Common garbage or trash generated by industries, businesses, institutions, and homes. EPAIncludes wastes such as durable goods, nondurable goods, containers and packaging, food scraps, yard trimmings, andmiscellaneous inorganic wastes from residential, commercial, institutional, and industrial sources. MSW does not include sewage,hazardous waste, nonhazardous industrial waste, construction and demolition debris, or automobile bodies (household hazardouswaste is MSW). (EPA)
Re-TRAC Connect
Residential and commercial trash and/or garbage generated by a particular municipal area. Global RecyclingNetworkMunicipal waste is a term covering the waste that emanates from houses in the form of rubbish/ garbage, so, generally speaking,excludes hazardous material. It includes materials capable of being recycled or of biodegrading.
Enviro News &Businesss
Term Definition SourceMaterial Safety Data
Sheet
Maximum DiversionRate
Medical Waste
Methane
Midden
Minimum DiversionRate
Minimum RecycledContent LawsMixed Glass
Mixed Metals
Mixed Municipal SolidWaste
Mixed Municipal SolidWaste Composting
FacilityMixed PaperMixed Plastic
Mulch
Municipality
Municiple Solid Waste
Any garbage, refuse, industrial lunchroom or other material, including solid, liquid, semi-solid or contained gaseous material,resulting from operation or residential, municipal, commercial or institutional establishments and from community activities and anysludge not meeting the definition of residual or hazardous waste in the Solid Waste Management Act from a municipal, commercialor institutional water supply treatment plant, wastewater treatment plant or air pollution control facility. The term does not includesource separated recyclable materials.
ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
A solid waste facility or expansion thereof, other than a vertical expansion, for the disposal of municipal solid waste, for which facilityor expansion a completed application under CGS Sections 22a-430 and 22a-208 is received by the Commissioner after the effectivedate of RCSA Section 22a-209-14. (RCSA Section 22a-209-1)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Material which is discarded during a manufacturing or processing operation and which cannot be directly fed back to that operation. Global RecyclingNetworkAnimal or vegetable residues that contain significant amounts of nitrogen. EPANonmagnetic metals such as aluminum, lead, and copper. Products made all or in part from such metals include containers,packaging, appliances, furniture, electronic equipment and aluminum foil. EPA
Metals which do not contain any iron. These metals are not magnetic and are usually more resistant to corrosion than ferrousmetals. Examples are aluminum, copper, zinc, and tin. Re-TRAC Connect
Diffuse pollution sources (i.e. without a single point of origin or not introduced into a receiving stream from a specific outlet). Thepollutants are generally carried off the land by storm water. Common non-point sources are agriculture, forestry, urban, mining,construction, dams, channels, land disposal, saltwater intrusion, and city streets.
EPA
High grade papers such as copier paper, computer printout, and stationary almost entirely made of uncoated chemical pulp,although some ground wood is used. Such waste is also generated in homes, schools, and elsewhere. EPA
Usually includes high-grade office paper as well as envelopes, colored paper and memos. It does not include carbon paper, paperboard, newsprint, glossy paper or magazines.
ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
Used or discarded high grade white paper and manilla paper, including paper utilized for file folders, tab cards, writing, typing,printing, computer printing, and photocopying, which is suitable for recycling and which has a minimum of contamination (City Cycle)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Uncontrolled fires in an open dump. EPAAn uncovered site used for the disposal of waste without environmental controls. EPAStatutes enacted by a local government for the purpose of regulating human activity and impact on the environment. Re-TRAC ConnectDefinition 1: Referring to or derived from living organisms.Definition 2: In chemistry, any compound containing carbon. EPA
Materials that are or were recently living, such as leaves, grass, agricultural crop residues, or food scraps. CalRecycle
In regards to food (both plant and animal) and other agricultural products (such as cotton), a term describing the absence ofpesticides, hormones, synthetic fertilizers and other toxic materials in cultivation.
The Dictionary ofSustainable
Management
Naturally occurring (animal or plant-produced or synthetic) substances containing mainly carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen. EPA
Carbonaceous waste contained in plant or animal matter and originating from domestic or industrial sources. EPA
A small scrap or leaving of food after a meal is completed. Often used in the plural. (Dictionary.com)Connecticut
Department ofEnergy and EP
Recyclable metals from strapping, furniture, and metal found in tires and consumer electronics but does not include metals found inconstruction materials or cars, locomotives, and ships. EPA
Recyclable glass from furniture, appliances, and consumer electronics. Does not include glass from transportation products (carstrucks or shipping containers) and construction or demolition debris. EPA
Recyclable nonferrous metals such as lead, copper, and zinc from appliances, consumer electronics, and nonpackaging aluminumproducts. Does not include nonferrous metals from industrial applications and construction and demolition debris. EPA
Term Definition Source
N
New Municipal SolidWaste Disposal Area
New Scrap
Nitrogenous Waste
Non-Ferrous Metals
Non-Point Sources
O
Office paper
Open BurningOpen DumpOrdinance
Organic
OrganicChemicals/Compound
sOrganic Matter
Ort
Other Ferrous Metals
Other Glass
Other NonferrousMetals
For Recyclable paper from books, third-class mail, commercial printing, paper towels, plates and cups; and other nonpackagingpaper such as posters, photographic papers, cards and games, milk cartons, folding boxes, bags, wrapping paper, and paperboard.Does not include wrapping paper or shipping cartons.
EPA
Recyclable plastic from appliances, eating utensils, plates, containers, toys, and various kinds of equipment. Does not includeheavy-duty plastics such as yielding materials. EPA
Recyclable nonhazardous solid wastes, other than municipal solid waste, covered under Subtitle D of RARA. EPARecyclable wood from furniture, consumer electronics cabinets, and other nonpackaging wood products. Does not include lumberand tree stumps recovered from construction and demolition activities, and industrial process waste such as shavings and sawdust. EPA
A refuse or recycling collection vehicle that compacts the materials. This is the most common type of refuse collection vehicle.Connecticut
Department ofEnergy and EP
A wooden platform used in connection with a forklift for moving bales or other large items. Also called a ‘skid’. (Business RecyclingManual, INFORM & Recourse Systems, 1991)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
In the recycling business, refers to products and materials, including newspapers, magazines, office papers, corrugated containers,bags and some paperboard packaging that can be recycled into new paper products. EPA
Intermediate facility where recovered paper or plastic products and materials are sorted, decontaminated, and prepared for finalrecycling. EPA
Portion of population participating in a recycling program. EPA
A composting method in which windrows are constructed over a series of perforated plastic pipes, which serve as air ducts forpassive aeration. Windrows are not turned. (On Farm Composting Handbook, 1992)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Systems under which residents pay for municipal waste management and disposal services by weight or volume collected, not afixed fee. EPA
Residents are charged for the collection of municipal solid waste–ordinary household trash–based on the amount they throw away.This creates a direct economic incentive to recycle more and to generate less waste (also known as unit pricing or variable-ratepricing). (EPA)
Re-TRAC Connect
A collections system where residents pay for waste management services per unit of wasted collected rather than through a flat fee,also known as variable rate pricing or unit pricing.
ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
is a numeric indicator of reported disposal divided by jurisdiction population (residents) or in some cases jurisdiction industryemployment (employees) to obtain disposal by individual. CalRecycle
Equipment that perforates and flattens material, then ejects it into a receptacle or processor. Used to prevent plastic bottles fromexpanding after flattening.
Global RecyclingNetwork
An expression of the intensity of the basic or acid condition of a liquid; may range from 0 to 14, where 0 is the most acid and 7 isneutral. Natural waters usually have a pH between 6.5 and 8.5. EPA
A process where ultraviolet radiation degrades the chemical bond or link in the polymer or chemical structure of a plastic. See also:Degradability.
Global RecyclingNetwork
A stationary location or fixed facility from which pollutants are discharged; any single identifiable source of pollution; e.g. a pipe,ditch, ship, ore pit, factory smokestack. EPA
Generally, the presence of a substance in the environment that because of its chemical composition or quantity prevents thefunctioning of natural processes and produces undesirable environmental and health effects. Under the Clean Water Act, forexample, the term has been defined as the man-made or man-induced alteration of the physical, biological, chemical, andradiological integrity of water and other media.
EPA
Term Definition Source
Other Paper
Other Plastics
Other Solid Waste
Other Wood
P
Packer truck,compacter truck
Pallet
Paper
PaperProcessor/Plastics
ProcessorParticipation RatePassively AeratedWindrow System
(PAWS)
Pay-As-You-Throw/Unit-Based Pricing
(PAYT)
Per Capita Disposal
Perforator
pH
Photodegradable
Point Source
Pollution
Definition 1: Identifying areas, processes, and activities which create excessive waste products or pollutants in order to reduce orprevent them through, alteration, or eliminating a process. Such activities, consistent with the Pollution Prevention Act of 1990, areconducted across all EPA programs and can involve cooperative efforts with such agencies as the Departments of Agriculture andEnergy.Definition 2: EPA has initiated a number of voluntary programs in which industrial, or commercial or "partners" join with EPA inpromoting activities that conserve energy, conserve and protect water supply, reduce emissions or find ways of utilizing them asenergy resources, and reduce the waste stream. Among these are: Agstar, to reduce methane emissions through manuremanagement. Climate Wise, to lower industrial greenhouse-gas emissions and energy costs. Coalbed Methane Outreach, to boostmethane recovery at coal mines. Design for the Environment, to foster including environmental considerations in product design andprocesses. Energy Star programs, to promote energy efficiency in commercial and residential buildings, office equipment,transformers, computers, office equipment, and home appliances. Environmental Accounting, to help businesses identifyenvironmental costs and factor them into management decision making. Green Chemistry, to promote and recognize cost-effectivebreakthroughs in chemistry that prevent pollution. Green Lights, to spread the use of energy-efficient lighting technologies. IndoorEnvironments, to reduce risks from indoor-air pollution. Landfill Methane Outreach, to develop landfill gas-to-energy projects. NaturalGas Star, to reduce methane emissions from the natural gas industry. Ruminant Livestock Methane, to reduce methane emissionsfrom ruminant livestock. Transportation Partners, to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from the transportation sector. VoluntaryAluminum Industrial Partnership, to reduce perfluorocarbon emissions from the primary aluminum industry. WAVE, to promoteefficient water use in the lodging industry. Wastewi$e, to reduce business-generated solid waste through prevention, reuse andrecycling.
EPA
Thermoplastic material used in plastic soft drink and rigid containers. EPATypically labeled plastic code 1 on the bottom of the container. PET is often used for soft drink and disposable water bottles, but canalso include other containers or packaging. (EPA) Re-TRAC Connect
A type of plastic that is clear or colored transparent with high gloss. It is used for carbonated beverage bottles and some householdcleanser containers. Often referred to as No. 1 Plastic.
Global RecyclingNetwork
Polylactic acid or Polylactide (PLA) is a biodegradable, thermoplastic, aliphatic polyester derived from renewable resources. Cornstarch (in the U.S.) or sugarcanes are the common feedstock. Bacterial fermentation is used to produce lactic acid, which isoligomerized and then catalytically dimerized to make the monomer for ring-opening polymerization. It can be easily produced in ahigh molecular weight form through ring-opening polymerization using most commonly a stannous octoate catalyst, but forlaboratory demonstrations tin(II) chloride is often employed. (The Language of Agriculture - Dictionary and Research Guide)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Plastic with a smooth surface that cracks easily when bent and is difficult to scratch. Typical uses are: battery cases, dairy tubs, jarlids, straws and syrup bottles. It is hard to collect in marketable quantities for recycling and has limited uses in its recycled form.Often referred to as No. 5 Plastic.
Global RecyclingNetwork
Plastic with a smooth surface that cracks easily when bent. Used for fast food packaging, styrofoam cups and packing peanuts, ittakes up a large part of landfill space because of its bulk. Often referred to as No. 6 Plastic.
Global RecyclingNetwork
A tough, environmentally indestructible plastic that releases hydrochloric acid when burned. EPALabeled plastics 3 on the bottom. A type of plastic used for making clothes, shoes, water pipes, etc. (EPA) Re-TRAC ConnectEnvironmentally indestructible plastic that releases toxic hydrocloric acid when burned. It is used for food wraps and containers forpersonal care products. Often referred to as V-3 or No. 3 Plastic.
Global RecyclingNetwork
A term used to describe material that is being reused/recycled after it has been in the consumer’s hands (e.g., a newspaper goingback to the paper mill to be recycled into new recycled content paper products). Material or product used by the consumer for itsoriginal purpose and then discarded. (Earth911.org)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Materials or finished products that have served their intended use and have been diverted or recovered from waste destined fordisposal, having completed their lives as consumer items. Postconsumer materials are part of the broader category of recoveredmaterials.
EPA
Any household or commercial product which has served its original, intended use. Global RecyclingNetwork
Materials generated by a business or consumer that have served their intended end uses and have been diverted from the municipalsolid waste stream for the purpose of recycling.
ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
Use of materials generated from residential and consumer waste for new or similar purposes; e.g. converting wastepaper fromoffices into corrugated boxes or newsprint. EPA
A term used to describe material that is being reused/recycled before it ever goes to market (e.g. paper scraps off of a paper millfloor going back into the next batch of paper). Waste material generated during the manufacturing process. (Earth911.org)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Term Definition Source
Pollution Prevention
PolyethyleneTerephthalate (PETE)
(PET)
Polylactic acid orPolylactide (PLA)
Polypropilene
Polystyrene
Polyvinyl Chloride(PVC)
Post-Consumer
Post-ConsumerMaterials/Waste
Post-ConsumerRecycling
Pre-Consumer
Materials generated in manufacturing and converting processes such as manufacturing scrap and trimmings and cuttings. Includesprint overruns, overissue publications, and obsolete inventories. EPA
Waste produced by converting or printing operations and includes any scraps, trimmings, overruns, etc. Global RecyclingNetwork Materials generated during any step in the production of a product and that have been recovered from or otherwise diverted fromthe waste stream for reuse in that same industrial process or sale to another industry for use in another industrial process. Examplesinclude trimmings, damaged or obsolete products and production overruns. This type of material is also known as post-industrialmaterial.
ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
Source reduction option whereby evaluation and selection of items for purchase is dependent upon method of manufacture, productcontent and recyclability of product after consumer use.
Global RecyclingNetwork
Precycling is a waste reduction measure, carried out by not allowing items into a domestic or corporate environment that couldcreate waste. An example is abandoning the trend of purchasing disposables like newspapers, in favour of online media sources.
Enviro News &Businesss
Materials used in building and furniture construction that are made from wood veneers, particles, or fibers bonded together with anadhesive under heat and pressure. EPA
The wood portion of construction and demolition waste which has been sorted to remove plastics, plaster, gypsum wallboard,asbestos, asphalt shingles, regulated wood fuel as defined in section 22a-209a and wood which contains creosote or to whichpesticides have been applied or which contains substances defined as hazardous waste under section 22a-115. (CGS Section 22a-208x (2))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Recycled wood or treated wood or any combination thereof which has been processed at a volume reduction facility permitted underthis chapter. (CGS Section 22a-209a (3))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Refers to intermediate operators that handle recyclable materials from collectors and generators for the purpose of preparingmaterials for recycling (MRFs, scrap metal yards, paper dealers and glass beneficiation plants). Processors act as an intermediarybetween collectors and end users of recyclable materials.
Re-TRAC Connect
Programs that encourage the purchase of recycled-content products by companies, jurisdictions and others. Joint recycled-contentproduct purchasing pools and buy-recycled campaigns are two examples. CalRecycle
Product stewardship is a principle that directs all participants involved in the life cycle of a product to take shared responsibility forthe impacts to human health and the natural environment that result from the production, use and end-of-life management of theproduct. The greater the ability of a party to influence the life cycle impacts of a product, the greater the degree of that party’sresponsibility. The stakeholders typically include manufacturers, retailers, consumers, and government officials. (ProductStewardship Institute)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Public Space sector includes high traffic areas that fall outside the coverage of other diversion programs. This sector typicallyincludes: parks, stadiums, transit hubs, shopping centers, convention centers, airports, along streets and at special event sites. Re-TRAC Connect
Biological decomposition of organic matter; associated with anaerobic conditions. EPADecomposition of a chemical by extreme heat. EPA
A process of producing fuels from waste by heating it in an oxygen-deficient atmosphere. Global RecyclingNetwork
(In recycling) Restoration of materials found in the waste stream to a beneficial use which may be for purposes other than theoriginal use. EPA
Is the process of collecting and often reprocessing discarded materials for reuse (e.g. beams are collected from a old barn and aretransformed into flooring). Synomous with salvage. Reuse Alliance
Transformation of solid waste into useful products, such as soil conditioners or recycled materials.(Reclaimer) - A company that processes post-consumer materials into new products
Global RecyclingNetwork
Percentage of usable recycled materials that have been removed from the total amount of municipal solid wasteHelp municipal solidwaste Common garbage or trash generated by industries, businesses, institutions, and homes. generated in a specific area or by aspecific business.
EPA
Materials generated by residences and commercial, municipal and institutional establishments which are specified by a municipalityand can be separated from municipal waste and returned to commerce to be reused as a resource in the development of usefulproducts. Recyclable materials may include, but are not limited to, clear glass, colored glass, aluminum, steel and bimetal cans, highgrade office paper, newsprint, corrugated cardboard, leaf waste, plastics and any other items selected by a municipality or specifiedin future revisions to Act 101.
ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
Term Definition Source
Pre-ConsumerMaterials/Waste
Precycle
Pressed WoodProducts
ProcessedConstruction andDemolition Wood
Processed Wood
Processor
Procurement Program
Product Stewardship
Public Space
Putrefaction
Pyrolysis
R
Reclamation
Recovery Rate
Recyclable
Products that can be collected and remanufactured into new products after they’ve been used. These products do not necessarilycontain recycled materials and only benefit the environment if people recycle them after use. (Earth 911)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Minimizing waste generation by recovering and reprocessing usable products that might otherwise become waste (.i.e. recycling ofaluminum cans, paper, and bottles, etc.). EPA
The process of collecting, sorting, cleansing, treating, and reconstituting materials that would otherwise become solid waste, andreturning them to the economic mainstream in the form of raw material for new, reused, or reconstituted products that meet thequality standards necessary to be used in the marketplace.
CalRecycle
Recycling is the procedure of drawing on used materials, or components of used materials, to create something new. The benefits ofthis include waste mitigation/ abolishment, a reduced use of raw materials and less in the way of air pollution (which incineration ofthe used materials would create), so contributing less to the greenhouse effect.
Enviro News &Businesss
Any wood or wood fuel which is derived from such products or processes as pallets, skids, spools, packaging materials, bulky woodwaste or scraps from newly built wood products, provided such wood is not treated wood. (CGS Section 22a-209a- (1))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Products that contain some recovered materials that might otherwise have been disposed through the waste managementinfrastructure.
ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
Products are made from materials that would otherwise have been discarded. That means these products are made totally orpartially from material contained in the products you recycle, like aluminum soda cans or newspaper. Recycled-content productsalso can be items that are rebuilt or re-manufactured from used products such as toner cartridges or computers. (Earth 911)
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
The series of activities by which materials that are no longer useful to the generator are collected, sorted, processed, and convertedinto raw materials and used in the production of new products. Re-TRAC Connect
Recycling is the process of reclaiming materials from used products or materials from their manufacturing and using them in themanufacturing of new products.
The Dictionary ofSustainable
ManagementThe collection, separation, recovery and sale or reuse of metals, glass, paper, leaf waste, plastics and other materials which wouldotherwise be disposed or processed as municipal waste or the mechanized separation and treatment of municipal waste (other thatthrough combustion) and creation and recovery of reusable materials.
ProfessionalRecyclers ofPennsylvania
The processing of solid waste to reclaim material there from (CGS Section 22a-207 (7))Connecticut
Department ofEnergy and EP
Located in state solid-waste or economic-development agencies, these centers provide recycling businesses with customized andtargeted assistance. EPA
Individuals hired by state or tribal economic development offices to focus financial, marketing, and permitting resources on creatingrecycling businesses. EPA
Land and appurtenances thereon and structures where recycling is conducted, including but not limited to, an intermediateprocessing center as defined in section 22a-260. (CGS Section 22a-207 (8))
ConnecticutDepartment ofEnergy and EP
Facility where recovered materials are remanufactured into new products. EPA
A national information-sharing r
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