Bloomberg Businessweek ICYMI: Waste Management COO John Morris
Jul 31, 2025
John Morris, the President and COO of WM, shares insights on the company's impressive Q2 earnings and enhanced cash flow targets. He discusses navigating the complexities of environmental regulations, particularly related to PFAS, and the industry's commitment to safe practices. Morris highlights how technology and automation are transforming labor in waste management, addressing labor shortages with innovative solutions. They also dive into effective recycling strategies and the promising role of industrial AI in optimizing processes, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
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Waste Management's Recession Resilience
- Waste Management is a recession-resistant business with some segments performing stronger and others weaker during economic fluctuations.
- Landfill and construction volumes have remained robust, indicating ongoing economic strength.
Addressing PFAS in Waste Management
- The EPA focuses on PFAS management, a contaminant of concern in waste streams, at a federal level while WM is regulated mostly at state levels.
- WM wants recognition of landfills as safe, passive repositories for PFAS-contaminated material.
Leverage Tech to Augment Workforce
- Use technology, automation, and AI to augment and upskill the workforce in labor-intensive roles.
- Automation reduces costs, reduces physical strain on workers, and improves job appeal, helping address workforce challenges.