Should Michigan Accept Canadian Waste in its Landfills?

Michigan Environmental Education Curriculum
Where Does Our Garbage Go?

By federal law, garbage may be sold across state borders or between countries. Michigan is one of the largest importers of waste, in part because of the low fees the Michigan landfills charge. Recently, Toronto began sending 100% of its waste to Michigan, angering residents over increased traffic and decreased landfill space. Some Michigan politicians are trying to limit or halt the amount of waste Canada is allowed to send to Michigan.

What do you think - should Michigan accept Canada's waste in it's landfills? Read some of the attached articles to learn more! EXPLORE:

Trash land

It's stinky, Canadian, comes in truckloads, but imported trash does have tangible benefits

The State News – Michigan State University 's Independent Voice

February 11, 2004

Lawmakers encouraging the “trash bills” are ignoring the economic benefits of importing Canadian trash including jobs, tipping revenues, highway taxes, and pollution control fees. Legislators should focus on increasing recycling instead. Read more...

New bill plans to take Canada to the dumpster

The State News – Michigan State University 's Independent Voice

January 21, 2003

Michigan cannot continue to accept garbage imported from Canada. The danger of contamination from Canadian waste which has not been inspected is a risk for the environment and the citizens of Michigan.

The rest of the story...

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