Policy Analysis on Bulk Waste Disposal

Organization

City of Waukegan

Industry

Local Government, Environmental Policy

Services

Policy Research and Analysis, Report Writing, Graphic Design

Challenge

A key issue emerged from the Ravines Project, in Allie’s internship for her master’s program: illegal dumping was a major deterrent to public use of Waukegan’s ravines.

Residents expressed safety concerns due to large amounts of trash and hazardous waste in the ravines. And City staff acknowledged that construction companies frequently use Waukegan as a dumping ground because of its limited surveillance and enforcement capacity. The City needed a clearer understanding of waste disposal policies and potential solutions for deterring illegal dumping.

Photo of illegal dumping by Robert So

Approach

Allie collaborated with City staff to assess the root causes of illegal dumping, gathering insights from residents and local officials. Through research and dialogue with City staff and residents, she examined existing policies, enforcement challenges, and potential improvements to the City’s waste management strategies. She compiled the findings in a concise report, and Whitney Larson provided graphic design and layout.

Result

The final report, Policies on Disposal of Bulk Waste in Waukegan, Illinois, provided City staff with a comprehensive look at existing policies. It uncovered vague and difficult-to-enforce policies and brought to light resources the City staff had not yet considered tapping.

City staff expressed appreciation for the case studies and actionable recommendations. The design and layout promote readability and engagement.