Session III

Modern Waste Conversion Technologies: Regulation, Integration & Public Engagement

Moderator: James Swart, Director, Special Projects, Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA)

Speakers:

Kawsar Vazifdar, P.E., M.S., ENVSP, Civil Engineer, Los Angeles County Department of Public Works

Jon Angin, Director of International Solid Waste Services, Tetra Tech

Nick Kohr, Director of Engineering, Lancaster County Solid Waste Management Authority

Session Description:

Waste conversion technologies present both opportunity and complexity for jurisdictions seeking to modernize their solid waste systems. This session explores the current regulatory and operational environment shaping waste conversion, particularly from the perspectives of California, Pennsylvania, and broader North America.

We'll examine the substantial regulatory hurdles—such as California’s SB 1383 organic diversion requirements and air emissions restrictions in Pennsylvania—that often limit viable conversion options to anaerobic digestion and other organic-based systems. International insights will highlight how scale and regulatory frameworks differ abroad, providing a contrast to the North American experience.

The session will also delve into the integration of Waste-to-Energy (WTE) into broader waste management systems. Participants will hear how WTE can serve as a primary pillar in an integrated strategy, supported by upstream sorting and downstream diversion techniques. Case studies from SWANA’s Applied Research Foundation (ARF) report will offer data on the refurbishment and construction of WTE facilities, including capital costs, capacity, lifespan, and lessons learned.

Attendees will also explore how due diligence—evaluating waste stream composition, existing infrastructure, environmental regulations, and community goals—is essential for effective planning. Finally, the discussion will address public perception and education, featuring real-world outreach efforts from LCSWMA and LA County.

Swart Bio:

James W. Swart is an association professional and currently serves as the director of special projects for the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA). In his role, James oversees SWANA’s education and training initiatives, including certifications, volunteer activities, subject matter expert groups, and governance for the organization.

Before joining SWANA, James was the director of education and leadership development for the National Apartment Association, providing leadership for NAA’s leadership development programs and non-credential education. James received his Bachelor of Science degree in Biosystems Engineering and his Master’s in Agricultural Education, Leadership and Communications from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Vazifdar Bio:

Kawsar Vazifdar works at Los Angeles County Public Works in the Environmental Programs Division. She manages a team that develops, analyzes, and implements environmental policies. Ms. Vazifdar leads The Southern California Conversion Technology Project, which promotes the development of infrastructure creating renewable energy and fuels from municipal solid waste. In addition, she is responsible for implementing single-use plastics policies in unincorporated County and implementing sustainable waste management programs at County facilities. Last, Ms. Vazifdar tracks sustainability metrics and coordinates sustainability reporting on behalf of Public Works’ Environmental Services branch.

Angin Bio:

Jon Angin is the Director of International Solid Waste Services for Tetra Tech, a global consulting engineering firm. He has more than thirty-five years of experience in the solid waste management and recycling industry, ranging from strategic planning and project development to direct operating experience. Over the course of his career, he has taken a leadership role in assisting both public and private sectors in building long range sustainable strategies for solid waste management collection, recovery and disposal.

Kohr Bio:

As Director of Engineering, Nicholas (Nick) is responsible for overseeing the planning, design, and construction of capital projects and infrastructure improvements across all LCSWMA facilities. He has over 15 years of professional experience in the engineering and solid waste management industries. He holds a B.S. degree in Civil Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and is a registered Professional Engineer in Pennsylvania. Prior to this role, Nick held various engineering and project management positions since his start in 2013.