On May 12, 2025, the Miami-Dade County Infrastructure, Innovation & Technology Committee convened to discuss pressing issues related to waste management and recycling in the region. A significant focus of the meeting was the challenge of measuring waste output from vacation rentals, a growing concern as the county grapples with increasing waste generation.

During the discussions, committee members highlighted the lack of current capabilities to measure waste output from individual residences, particularly vacation rentals. While the county has established a registry of vacation rentals, the solid waste department currently lacks the technology to assess the amount of waste produced by these properties. The committee emphasized the need for collaboration with the solid waste department to explore potential solutions, including physical inspections and data collection methods.

Anisha Daniels, the director of the solid waste department, noted that while the recycling contract recently implemented includes artificial intelligence (AI) technology to identify contamination in recycling bins, similar capabilities for regular waste collection are still under consideration. The department is researching various models, including a "pay as you throw" system, which could provide insights into waste generation patterns.

The committee also discussed the importance of education and outreach to residents regarding proper recycling practices. With many newcomers to the area unfamiliar with local regulations, the need for effective communication was underscored as a way to reduce contamination and improve recycling rates.

In conclusion, the meeting served as a starting point for addressing the complexities of waste management in Miami-Dade County. As the county continues to explore innovative solutions and technologies, the discussions highlighted the importance of understanding waste generation from vacation rentals and the potential impact on overall waste management strategies. The committee plans to revisit these topics in future meetings, aiming to develop actionable steps to enhance waste measurement and recycling efforts across the county.