Program Resources

Solid Waste Policy Management Education Program

Extension Program Resources-Community Development 1996

I. Title of Program or Issue:	Solid Waste Policy Education Program
A. Situational Statement:	The severity of solid waste issues is well documented in the United States. The passage of Ohio Amended Substitute House Bill 592 in 1988 radically altered waste management practice in the state, and has put forth new challenges and opportunities for local governments. Through the creation of Solid Waste Management Policy Boards, solid waste planning and implementation has become a necessary and highly visible activity at the local level. Information from a broad array of sources and biases is necessary for local officials. The policy process, well practiced, but often less well understood, provides a vehicle for sharing the process of learning about and planning policy for solid waste management in the state.
B. Description/Educational Objectives:	The Solid Waste Policy Education Program is actually various programmatic materials that, when compiled and processed, become a more cohesive whole. The objectives for such programs may include: To provide local officials with an understanding of the big picture of waste management To facilitate decision making regarding policy in local solid waste issues To assist local officials in developing the necessary vocabulary and understanding for working with consultants and engineering firms on solid waste management plans To create a consistent vocabulary statewide in solid waste (issue literacy) To empower local decision makers in solid waste policy decisions.
C. Suggested Time Required for Program; Time of Year:	The program is not time-bound. The program can be conducted when necessary or when requested. Programs can range from single presentations to series of programs.
D. Audience and Level of Offering:	Targeted audience is local officials: commissioners, township trustees, solid waste management policy boards, technical advisory councils, council members. A secondary audience is citizens who desire to be involved in local decision making, or to be more informed regarding decisions in solid waste management in their areas.
E. Teaching Methods, Resources, Costs:	The predominant teaching method is presentational. Materials are provided for presentations using overheads, slides, handouts and fact sheets as supporting visuals. Costs are usually used to recover any meeting expenses (e.g., meals, travel for presenters, etc.). Component teaching packet available.
F. Contact Person(s), Location:	Dr. Joe E. Heimlich, Leader, Environmental Sciences, Community Development, 204 Mount Hall, 1050 Carmack Road, Columbus, OH 43210-1002; 614-292-6926