SEATTLE (Recycling Monster): Alachua County officials are evaluating long-term waste disposal solutions as the county’s contract with the New River Solid Waste Association is due to expire in 2028.
A recently held meeting of the Alachua County Commission voted to explore future solid waste management options, including the possibility of developing a new landfill within the county.
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Commissioners reviewed three potential strategies: constructing a landfill in the Balu Forest area east of Gainesville Regional Airport, reopening the Southwest Landfill in Archer, or investing in alternative waste treatment technologies such as chemical recycling.
The disposal costs under a renewed New River agreement are feared to rise from $30 to $47 per ton. The projected surge in waste disposal costs has been a major concern for local authorities. It must be noted that Alachua County generates approximately 211,000 tons of waste every year.
Solid Waste Director Gus Olmos warned that the county could face major disposal challenges over the next ten years if it fails to secure alternative arrangements by then. The landfill capacity across the region is becoming increasingly limited, Olmos added.
Incidentally, Alachua County targets an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050 under its Climate Action Plan.