Waste Management Inc., commonly referred to as Waste Management or WM, is a leading provider in the United States specialising in waste treatment and environmental services. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, the company operates extensively across North America, delivering comprehensive waste management solutions. Founded in 1968, Waste Management has established itself as a key player in the industry, particularly in the treatment of wastewater and other specialised waste streams.
The company’s core offerings include waste collection, recycling, and wastewater treatment services, with a focus on innovative and sustainable practices. Waste Management’s expertise in handling complex waste streams and its commitment to environmental responsibility have earned it a prominent market position. As a pioneer in the waste treatment sector, WM continues to set industry standards through its advanced technologies and extensive operational network.
+29 vs industry average
Waste Management’s score of 47 is higher than 69% of the industry. This can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
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Industry Intensity
Wastewater Treatment is among the most carbon-intensive industries
Industry performance
The Wastewater Treatment industry has reduced its overall emissions by 32% since 2018
Emissions trajectory 2020 – 2027
Reported emissions
Scope 3 accounts for ••• of total emissions.
Waste Management's reported carbon emissions
Waste Management (WM) has made significant commitments to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In 2024, the company reported total emissions of approximately 15.3 billion kg CO2e. This includes Scope 1 emissions of about 13.2 billion kg CO2e and Scope 2 emissions of approximately 108.9 million kg CO2e. Scope 3 emissions for the same year were around 2.0 billion kg CO2e.
WM has set a clear target to reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 42% by 2031, using a 2021 baseline. This ambitious goal has been validated and approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The company is reportedly on track to achieve this near-term target.
Further illustrating their commitment, WM aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040. They are also working towards a science-based target to cut fleet emissions by 45% by 2038, based on a 2010 baseline, which relates to their Scope 1 emissions. In 2022, WM reported a 10% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions from their 2021 baseline, achieved through efforts such as enhanced gas collection and control systems at landfill sites.
WM's US-based operations in the "Other waste for treatment: waste water treatment" industry are actively engaged in these climate initiatives.
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Waste Management’s Climate Goals (2030 & 2050)
7 goals2031
42% reduction in all scopes
WM commits to reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions 42% by 2031 from a 2021 base year
2030
62% reduction in total GHG
Vs 2019 baseline. Validated by SBTi. Includes full supply chain.
2040
50% reduction in Scope 3 intensity
Across purchased goods and services and logistics.
See all 7 climate goals
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Scope 3 top emissions categories
11 of 15 categories disclosedSee all scope 3 categories
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Climate initiatives

Science Based Targets Initiative

Carbon Disclosure Project
The Climate Pledge
UN Global Compact Climate Champions initiative
RE 100
Climate Action 100
Emissions comparison with industry peers
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Common questions about Waste Management’s sustainability data and climate commitments
Data year: 2024
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