WMSBF Seeking MI Municipal Solid Waste Fellows for Summer 2023

The Michigan Municipal Solid Waste Research Fellows will support the Michigan MSW Characterization and Value Study, a project funded by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy to determine the value of recyclable and compostable materials currently being disposed of in Michigan landfills and incinerators.  Fellows will also support and potentially lead projects to promote recycling and composting initiatives in the region and state, working alongside leading recycling and composting firms, top-level consultants, regulators and academic partners.  Fellowship includes a substantial amount of field work at landfills and similar facilities.  Travel required, including some overnight trips. All fellows will receive a complimentary pair of work boots from Duradero. 

About West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum and Michigan MSW Characterization and Value Study

West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum promotes business practices that advance climate leadership, social justice and the creation of a circular economy.  The organization does business as Michigan Sustainable Business Forum and operates an statewide program and four regional programs that provide education, sustainable business resources and opportunities for collaboration and civic engagement to businesses and institutions.

In 2016, a coalition led by West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum worked to characterize economic and environmental opportunities available through sustainable materials management in the state.  The ensuing report, Economic Impact Potential and Characterization of Municipal Solid Waste in Michigan, has been regularly cited by state and regional initiatives in the six years since its publication.  Much has changed since 2016, with important advancements and set-backs for local, state and national efforts to promote sustainable materials management.  Commodity and transportation pricing has created systemic challenges for the processing of certain materials, while emerging end markets have created a growing need for other materials currently being sent to Michigan landfills.  The Snyder administration goal to double the state’s recycling rate has evolved into a 45% goal supported by the $15 million Renew Michigan Fund and its various initiatives.  Deposit containers, food waste, single-use plastics, embodied carbon and county solid-waste planning are active concerns for public and private stakeholders in the state.

WMSBF, Grand Valley State University and other partners, in collaboration with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, will be conducting an updated and expanded study in the summer of 2023. The new Michigan MSW Characterization and Valuation Study will perform statistically significant waste sort at sites across the state, and provide an economic valuation for diversion in terms of real material value, job creation, and other positive economic and environmental impacts. 

Directions to Apply

Applicants should apply by sending a cover letter and resume to Carrie Veldman at cveldman@wmsbf.org by April 15, direct inquiries to the same.