The process to support the Southeast Alaska Solid Waste Authority (SEASWA) involves several key steps:
The initial phase focuses on conducting comprehensive research and a literature review. The goal is to develop a “Regional Profile” that includes “Community Narratives” outlining current waste streams and existing Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) infrastructure within Southeast Alaska.
Once the regional profile is developed, the findings are shared with the communities. During this step, the communities with the highest MSW costs are identified, and any gaps in the available data are pinpointed.
Based on the analysis of current and future infrastructure, along with regional, state, and national MSW processes, a white paper is created. This document details feasible solutions for waste management.
The data and feasible solutions identified in the previous steps are then incorporated into a comprehensive “Regional Solid Waste Strategy.” This strategy includes an analysis of weaknesses, methods to mitigate them, and a detailed implementation action plan.
As funding becomes available, the final step involves working directly with communities to begin implementing the developed Regional Solid Waste Strategy.
Image: In 2020 SEASWA purchases a Desco 4000 Model Portable tire shearer & derimmer. Thanks to a partnership with the Alaska Marine Line, this piece of equipment travels between SEASWA member communities to manage tire waste.