Beyond 40%

Beyond 40% is a practical guide for communities trying to solve their solid waste disposal problems.

The Institute for Local Self-Reliance (ILSR) is a nonprofit research and educational organization that provides technical assistance and information on sustainable development issues to government agencies, citizen organizations, and industry. Since 1974, ILSR has researched the technical feasibility and commercial viability of environmentally sound, state-of-the-art technologies with a view to strengthening local economies. ILSR began as a neighborhood organization in Washington, DC, growing tilapia fish in tanks and alfalfa sprouts on the roof. It is now a nationally recognized organization providing research and technical assistance on recycling and community-based economic development, zero waste planning and implementation, biomass-based products, wind energy, and policies to protect local main streets and other facets of a home-grown economy. Since its inception, ILSR has actively addressed the burgeoning waste crisis, over dependence on fossil fuels, and other materials efficiency issues.