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| Overall Assessment |
Comment |
Score |
| Comprehensive |
Waste Management Inc. offers a very detailed picture of its climate-policy advocacy. It names numerous specific measures it seeks to influence, including the “EPA Renewable Fuel Standard program,” the “Phase 2 Heavy-Duty Truck GHG Rule,” the “Biogenic Accounting Framework for combustion of landfill gas,” state-level renewable portfolio standards and renewable energy incentives, as well as tax and energy legislation that would extend credits for low-carbon fuels. The company also explains exactly how it engages: it “has directly lobbied the U.S. Congress and has worked closely with senior Administration officials,” “engaged with EPA and DOT providing technical information on our fleet and its operations,” “provided expert review and advice on EPA’s draft U.S. GHG Inventory,” and “coordinates with other companies and trade associations to advocate before Congress and federal agencies,” clearly identifying both mechanisms (direct meetings, technical submissions, coalition advocacy) and targets (Congress, EPA, DOT, OMB, state legislatures). Finally, Waste Management is explicit about the policy outcomes it seeks, such as “incentivizing the production of renewable natural gas as cellulosic biofuel,” securing “tax incentives for renewable energy production based upon energy value and GHG reductions,” urging EPA to “continue to implement the Renewable Fuel Standard program consistent with Congressional intent,” and supporting “implementation of the heavy-duty truck standards” to facilitate its transition to a renewable natural gas fleet. This combination of specific policies, clearly described engagement channels, and well-defined objectives demonstrates a comprehensive level of transparency in the company’s climate-related lobbying disclosures.
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4
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| Overall Assessment |
Comment |
Score |
| Moderate |
Waste Management Inc. demonstrates a moderate level of governance in its lobbying activities, with some processes and oversight mechanisms disclosed. The company states that its Government Affairs Department is responsible for executing its policy and advocacy agenda, and contributions to political candidates must be authorized by this department, with oversight from senior executives such as the WMPAC Assistant Treasurer, who is also the Vice President – Government Affairs & Legal. Contributions are subject to compliance with federal, state, and local laws, and are entered into a centralized corporate political contribution database, ensuring a degree of monitoring and accountability. Furthermore, the Board of Directors discusses detailed accounting of political contributions following each election cycle, indicating some level of review. Waste Management also acknowledges its membership in trade associations and notes that requests to join associations performing federal lobbying are reviewed and approved by the WMPAC Assistant Treasurer. However, while the company mentions its active support for public policies encouraging lower carbon energy and waste services, there is no explicit disclosure of a structured process for aligning its lobbying activities—both direct and indirect—with climate-related goals or the Paris Agreement. Additionally, while the company highlights its engagement with trade associations to influence regulations and manage risks, it does not provide detailed mechanisms for monitoring or enforcing alignment with its climate policy. The company does not disclose a comprehensive lobbying audit or review process, nor does it specify a formal group or committee dedicated to overseeing lobbying alignment with climate goals. This indicates that while some governance measures are in place, they lack the depth and specificity required for stronger alignment with climate-related lobbying objectives.
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2
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