In 2024, Jackson County engaged Fishbeck to develop a comprehensive Materials Management Plan (MMP) in alignment with the Michigan Part 115 regulations. These regulations emphasize sustainable waste management practices such as recycling and composting over traditional landfilling. Fishbeck collaborated closely with the county’s Materials Management Planning Committee (MMPC) to ensure the plan reflected local priorities and met all EGLE requirements.
The project began with a thorough assessment of waste generation, including residential, commercial, and industrial waste streams. Fishbeck utilized a combination of EGLE’s “Mega Data” and local stakeholder consultations to create a detailed waste inventory, identifying volumes, types, and trends. Concurrently, Fishbeck evaluated the county’s materials management facilities and transportation infrastructure, documenting their capacity to handle current and projected waste needs.
A key component of the project was setting actionable materials management goals and developing an implementation strategy. Fishbeck worked with the MMPC to establish measurable benchmarks, create plans for achieving EGLE’s recycling standards, and propose enforceable mechanisms, such as ordinances and agreements. The implementation strategy also included timelines, outreach plans, and recommendations for facility development to support increased recycling and diversion rates.
Public and stakeholder engagement played a pivotal role throughout the process. Fishbeck facilitated community meetings and incorporated feedback to ensure the MMP reflected the county’s diverse needs and perspectives. The final plan provided Jackson County with a strategic roadmap to enhance waste reduction, improve recycling rates, and establish a more sustainable materials management framework.
