Outside of hazardous waste, there are many different types of waste that may be generated in retail operations that have some have requirements for handling and/or disposal. This includes food waste, office waste, paper, cardboard, tires, construction waste, medical waste and anything else that can no longer be used. Most regulations for non-hazardous solid waste are at the state or local levels and can include special handling or recycling requirements or disposal bans. This area also includes regulations for items that jurisdictions are trying to reduce or keep out of waste streams such as plastic bags. Retailers should know the constituents of their waste stream and develop management approaches to reduce the waste or divert it from landfills.

Visit the Retail Compliance Center's Retail Waste Report for a look at trends that are impacting waste and recycling in the U.S. such as China’s new waste policies (i.e., National Sword), and consumer trends in both shopping and in increased concerns about waste and U.S. policy trends.