Senator Shelley Moore Capito, the Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, expressed her concerns about recycling and waste management policies during a recent hearing. Capito emphasized the need to find realistic solutions to the waste problem faced both in the United States and globally.
During her opening statement, Capito acknowledged the complexity of the issue, stating, "Like any complex issue, it’s kind of easy to sit here and list out all the problems, but it’s very difficult to start finding realistic solutions." She highlighted the importance of acknowledging the continued reliance on plastic while working to prevent plastic pollution, stating, "Acknowledging our continued reliance on plastic and working to prevent plastic pollution are not mutually exclusive."
Capito raised concerns about the impact of extended producer responsibility policies on consumers, particularly in rural areas where recycling programs are limited. She emphasized the need to consider the downstream impacts on everyday consumers and ensure that policies are grounded in reality.
The Senator also stressed the importance of avoiding mandates that may have unintended consequences, stating, "For that outcome to be achievable, we must be, in my opinion, technology-agnostic and avoid mandates around EPR or circularity that may have unintended consequences." She highlighted the need to involve stakeholders such as the waste management industry in decision-making and cautioned against adding unnecessary bureaucracy.
Capito concluded her remarks by expressing her eagerness to hear from the panel, stating, "So, I look forward to hearing the panel." The Senator's opening statement underscored the need for careful consideration and collaboration among industry, government, and the environmental community to address recycling and waste management challenges effectively.