Research

Research Priorities

The National Waste & Recycling Foundation (NWRF) supports research that advances safety, sustainability, innovation, and education in the waste and recycling industry. With additional philanthropic support, NWRF may expand its role in enabling applied research that addresses emerging challenges, informs decision‑making, and translates knowledge into practical outcomes.

NWRF’s research focus is designed to complement, not duplicate, existing efforts, emphasizing real‑world relevance and broad benefit to workers, communities, and the environment.

Potential Areas of Support

With sufficient funding, NWRF may support or facilitate research in areas such as:

• Safety and Risk Reduction
  Fire prevention, battery safety, occupational health, facility safety, and emergency preparedness.
• System Performance and Materials Management
  Recycling system efficiency, contamination reduction, infrastructure needs, and operational best practices.
• Environmental Protection and Sustainability
  Landfill and organics management, emissions and environmental controls, and climate resilience.
• Innovation and Emerging Technologies
  Evaluation of new technologies, pilot or demonstration projects, and data‑driven solutions.
• Policy‑Relevant and Applied Research
  Objective analysis to inform evidence‑based policy and regulatory decision‑making.
• Education and Workforce Development
  Research that supports training, workforce needs, and public understanding of waste and recycling systems.

How Research May Be Supported

Depending on available resources, NWRF may support research through partnerships, targeted initiatives, collaborative projects, or the synthesis and dissemination of research findings. Specific projects and deliverables are determined based on available funding and alignment with the Foundation’s mission.

Opportunities for Research Supporters

Philanthropic partners play a critical role in advancing NWRF‑supported research. Depending on the nature of the contribution and applicable nonprofit guidelines, funding benefits may include:

• Early or exclusive briefings on research findings prior to public release
• Customized summaries or issue‑focused insights tailored to donor interests
• Participation in research briefings or roundtables with subject‑matter experts
• Recognition on NWRF research materials and platforms
• Opportunities to help shape future research priorities, consistent with NWRF’s mission and independence

All research supported by NWRF remains objective and educational in nature.