Resources

ARF Frequently Asked Questions

Below are frequently asked questions Frequently Asked Questions designed to help you to better understand SWANA’s Applied Research Foundation. If your question cannot be answered below, please contact Jeremy O’Brien, P.E. BCEE, SWANA’s Director of Applied Research. Mr. O’Brien can be reached at (704) 906-7269 or at jobrien@swana.org.

  • How do I contact the director of the Applied Research Foundation?

    For more information on the SWANA Applied Research Foundation, contact Jeremy K. O’Brien, P.E., Director of Applied Research at jobrien@swana.org, or 704-906-7269.

  • Who Governs the Applied Research Foundation?

    SWANA’s Executive Committee and International Board oversee the Applied Research Foundation (ARF). Subscribing partners to the ARF determine what research topics should be addressed, and participate in the research.
  • How are Research Projects Financed?

    Research projects are supported through subscribing member organizations’ annual subscription fees. Subscribers provide penny per ton contributions annually to support the ARF’s research activities. The exact amount depends on how much waste or recyclables a subscriber manages. Funds received from subscribers are held in reserve accounts with separate financial accounting for each subscriber category. Additional funds are solicited from other sources to leverage subscription dollars.
  • Who Conducts Research for the Applied Research Foundation?

    The research is conducted by SWANA staff, expert consultants and researchers.
  • How do I subscribe to the Applied Research Foundation?

    As an Applied Research Foundation subscriber, you can help shape the future of the solid waste industry! Email membership@swana.org to subscribe to the ARF today!

  • Who Chooses what ARF research topics to address?

    The Subscribers choose! By working together, subscribing partners have the unique opportunity to determine what research topics should be addressed, and to participate in the research. Each subscription year ARF Subscribing Partners identify research topics for each functional group (e.g., collection, disposal, sustainable materials management, waste conversion and energy recovery). Subscribers in each group then serve on a Project Advisory Committee to review the research.
  • Who Subscribes to the ARF?

    Subscribers consist of public and private organizations that are directly or indirectly involved in the provision of municipal solid waste management services.