SENATE BILL REPORT

SHB 332

BYHouse Committee on Environmental Affairs (originally sponsored by Representatives Valle, Allen, Crane, May, Rayburn, Rust, Sprenkle, Unsoeld and Lux)

Requiring the department of ecology to implement and operate a waste exchange.

House Committe on Environmental Affairs

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):March 31, 1987; April 1, 1987; February 23, 1988

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Metcalf, Chairman; DeJarnatt, Kreidler, Owen, Rinehart.

Senate Staff:Rick Anderson (786-7717)

                  February 23, 1988

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL RESOURCES, FEBRUARY 23, 1988

BACKGROUND:

Many industries generate and dispose of wastes that are regulated under the state's hazardous waste management act.  These industries must comply with extensive permit and reporting requirements.  However, it is sometimes the case that one industry's "waste" is a valuable component in another industry's production process.  Exchanges between such industries can reduce disposal costs and the dependence on hazardous waste facilities.

"Waste exchanges" are used to facilitate informational exchange between industries and businesses for mutual benefit. Waste exchanges operate in the U.S., Canada, and Europe.

SUMMARY:

The Department of Ecology is authorized to establish a waste exchange for hazardous wastes.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      available

Senate Committee - Testified: Bruce Wishart, Sierra Club