H.R. 6566: Recycling Technology Innovation Act

This bill, known as the Recycling Technology Innovation Act, proposes changes to the definition of "solid waste incineration unit" within the Clean Air Act. Here are the key components of what the bill intends to do:

Changes to Definition of Solid Waste Incineration Unit

The bill aims to modify the definition of what constitutes a solid waste incineration unit by excluding certain processes from this definition. The changes include the following:

• The new definition will include units that convert or transform plastic or post-use polymers through processes like:
• Pyrolysis
• Gasification
• Depolymerization
• Catalytic cracking
• Solvolysis
• Chemolysis
• Moreover, to qualify for the exclusion, at least 50% of the output by mass must be defined as "products" as determined by the Administrator.

Petitions for Exclusion

Units that process plastic or post-use polymers but do not automatically qualify under the new definition can petition the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator for an exclusion from being classified as a solid waste incineration unit. The petition process involves:

• The Administrator must make the complete petition publicly available.
• There will be a public comment period regarding the petition.
• The Administrator must approve or deny the petition within 180 days of receiving it.

Definition of Product

The bill also clarifies what constitutes a "product." A product is described as:

• A usable substance or material with applications in consumer, commercial, or industrial settings.
• A material that can be sold or used as an input for manufacturing another product.
• Products do not include electricity, heat, steam, soot, char, dust, or ash.

Purpose and Impact

The overarching goal of this legislation is to foster innovation and investment in recycling technologies by providing clearer definitions and pathways for companies engaged in the recycling and conversion of plastic waste. By doing so, it aims to support advancements in waste management practices while potentially reducing the regulatory burden on certain operations.

Relevant Companies

• WM (Waste Management, Inc.) - As a major player in waste management and recycling services, the legislation could impact operations related to the treatment of plastics and other recyclables.
• FNV (Franco-Nevada Corporation) - This company may be influenced by potential changes in regulations that affect the recycling of materials, as they are invested in various resource sectors.
• SHW (The Sherwin-Williams Company) - This company's operations could be impacted through changes in the sourcing of materials derived from recycling processes.