Key Research Needs

To maximize our impact and address the most pressing challenges facing the industry, we’ve strategically focused our Data Analysis and Grant funding efforts to align with our Strategic Research Priorities.

Why Focused Research Areas?

EREF’s strategic plan prioritizes research that:

• Addresses Urgent Industry Needs: We identify and respond to the most critical challenges faced by waste management professionals, policymakers, and communities.
• Promotes Innovation: We support research that fosters the development of novel technologies, methodologies, and solutions.
• Drives Measurable Impact: We aim to fund projects that lead to practical applications and tangible improvements in materials management practices.
• Aligns with Our Mission: Our key research areas directly support our mission of advancing sustainable materials management and promoting a circular economy.
• Efficiently Uses Resources: By focusing on key areas, we are able to concentrate our funding and expertise to produce the most valuable and useful research.

By concentrating our efforts, we can more effectively contribute to the development of science-based solutions that protect human health and the environment.

Core Priorities: PFAS & Landfill Emissions

We invite researchers and innovators to partner with EREF in advancing knowledge and developing solutions in these critical areas. By focusing our resources, we aim to accelerate progress and create lasting positive change. We encourage you to review our Key Research Need statements for each area:

Data Analysis & Grant Projects culminate in an EREF-approved report. You can view completed reports below. Your research can play a vital role in shaping the future of sustainable waste management. We look forward to your applications.