From Recycling to Regeneration: How Sustainability is Changing the Business Landscape with Waste Management and Republic Services

In preparation for Earth Day on Monday, April 22, major recycling service companies like Waste Management (WM) and Republic Services (RSG) are gearing up to announce their earnings. As the world becomes more conscious of the need for sustainability, these companies are playing a crucial role in reducing waste and protecting the environment.

PA Consulting’s Sustainability & Regenerative Economy Expert, Tony Perrotta, recently joined Yahoo Finance to discuss the opportunities in sustainability. Perrotta believes that there is $12 trillion worth of value in this sector and highlighted the ways companies are leveraging recycling technologies.

According to Perrotta, there are three major ways companies are adopting sustainable practices. Firstly, he mentioned the growth of better mechanical recycling practices, aided by vision technology, robotics, and artificial intelligence. This technology allows for more efficient and effective recycling of materials such as plastics and metals.

Secondly, advanced recycling technologies are making strides in the US, allowing for the conversion of hard-to-recycle materials back into usable forms using chemical or physical heat processes. This includes materials such as batteries, electronics, and textiles.

Finally, Perrotta highlighted the move towards novel and alternative materials, such as seaweed, alginates, and plant-based fibers. These materials have a lower environmental impact than traditional materials and can be used in a variety of applications such as packaging and construction materials.

To stay updated on the latest market trends and insights from experts like Tony Perrotta, you can watch the full episode on Yahoo Finance.