The Department of Defense (DOD) can save money and protect the environment by improving its solid waste management.

DOD and other Federal agencies are responsible for the annual disposal of 32 million tons of solid waste. Low priority has been given solid waste management, and the absence of DOD deadlines for complying with the Environmental Protection Agency's guidelines contribute to the problem. There has been only minimal recovery of recyclable materials to date. As of June 1975, military installations recycled 4.2% of their waste material in FY 75, compared with the national average of 6%. There are both economic and environmental benefits related to energy recovery from solid waste. However, military management has been slow in recovery programs because most bases have sufficient landfill areas.

Status Legend:

Review Pending-GAO has not yet assessed implementation status.

Open-Actions to satisfy the intent of the recommendation have not been taken or are being planned, or actions that partially satisfy the intent of the recommendation have been taken.

Closed-implemented-Actions that satisfy the intent of the recommendation have been taken.

Closed-not implemented-While the intent of the recommendation has not been satisfied, time or circumstances have rendered the recommendation invalid.

• Review Pending
• Open
• Closed - implemented
• Closed - not implemented

Recommendation for Executive Action

Recommendation: The Secretary of Defense should publish guidance for determining whether and under what circumstances bases should initiate energy recovery programs; issue specifications to the services for preparing energy recovery systems proposals; and designate a focal point for reviewing such project proposals and establishing priorities for their funding.

Agency Affected:

Status: Closed

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