Deposit-refund systems for managing hazardous wastes produced by small businesses
- Univ. of California, Davis (USA)
This article examines the potential of an economic incentive device virtually unused in the United States for managing hazardous wastes-- deposit-refund systems. The emphasis is on reducing the high rate of illegal disposal of hazardous wastes by small firms. We give evidence that illegal disposal is a problem and identify its underlying causes, principally lack of enforcement. Theory and operation of deposit-refund systems are described, with illustrative situations showing the crucial role of the size of the refund relative to the cost of legal disposal. Economic effects, advantages, and problems of design and implementation are examined. We conclude that deposit-refund systems are potentially effective for reducing illegal disposal, and that they promote economic efficiency and equity. Pilot programs are recommended.
- OSTI ID:
- 6977634
- Journal Information:
- Journal of Environmental Management; (USA), Journal Name: Journal of Environmental Management; (USA) Vol. 29:2; ISSN JEVMA; ISSN 0301-4797
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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