Abstract

Recycling and the operation of reverse channels of distribution are appropriately receiving increased attention as rampant solid waste pollution, frequent energy shortages, and serious materials scarcity are recognized as realities of our modern age. If organizations are to survive in this modem era, they will necessarily have to plan, organize, and manage specifically for environmental, energy, and materials contingencies. No longer will business enterprises be able to add to the pollution of an already strained environment. Moreover, business will be required to utilize processes which conserve energy and aid in the reuse of discarded materials. The magnitude of solid waste pollution in the United States has reached staggering proportions and continues to increase at an alarming rate. Already solid waste pollution is adversely affecting the quality of the human environment, and it threatens to destroy the beauty and usefulness of many urban as well as rural areas. An essential element in the solution of these problems is the marketplace. More specifically, agencies are needed that can get recyclable waste materials from suppliers to the manufacturing users.