The Miami-Dade County Infrastructure, Innovation & Technology Committee convened on February 10, 2025, to discuss critical waste management strategies and community concerns regarding environmental sustainability. The meeting featured a series of public comments advocating for a transition towards a zero-waste future, highlighting the urgent need to address the county's waste production, which is reported to be twice the national average per capita.

The session began with a call for innovative waste reduction strategies, including the implementation of a "pay as you throw" system, which would incentivize residents to minimize waste output. Amanda Di Perna, representing the nonprofit Debris Free Oceans, praised Commissioner Regalado for his efforts in promoting zero-waste initiatives, such as recycling programs and methane extraction from landfills. She emphasized the importance of educating future generations about waste reduction and urged the commission to consider policies that would eliminate single-use waste at large venues.

Sebastian Caicedo from Florida Rising echoed these sentiments, stressing the community's opposition to waste incineration, which has historically harmed local environments. He called for a collective movement towards zero waste, noting that public support for such initiatives is growing.

Karen Buys Wallace raised concerns about the county's property sale processes, advocating for municipalities to have the first opportunity to purchase surplus county properties. She criticized the lack of transparency and public notice in the current system, which she believes undermines equitable access to public land.

Ryan McMullen, a student leader from the University of Miami, voiced strong opposition to new waste incineration facilities, arguing that such decisions would negatively impact public health and the environment for future generations. He urged the committee to explore sustainable alternatives to waste management.

Scott Polowitz from Friends of Biscayne Bay reinforced the call for zero-waste solutions, advocating for comprehensive recycling and composting programs. He highlighted the need for partnerships with local businesses to create a circular economy and reduce reliance on incineration, which he described as a step backward in waste management practices.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of pursuing innovative waste reduction strategies and the need for continued public engagement in environmental initiatives. The committee is expected to further explore these discussions in future sessions, focusing on actionable steps towards achieving a sustainable waste management system in Miami-Dade County.