Title: The benefits of using an integrated approach to study environmental issues: lessons from Madeline Island, Wisconsin

Authors: Sonya Newenhouse, Joan Schmit

Addresses: Madison Environmental Group, Inc, USA. ' University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA

Abstract: The intent of this paper is to describe how a community can analyze its waste stream through an integrated approach by combining qualitative interviews and field observations with a quantitative waste characterisation study. By describing just such an approach conducted for the community of Madeline Island, Wisconsin, the practical nature of this integrated method is demonstrated and suggestions to tailor it for specific community needs are considered. The benefits of using both quantitative and qualitative disciplines of analysis will be discussed along with a description of the sorts of information most likely to be obtained depending on which of the three integrated elements are emphasised.

Keywords: environmental issues; waste characterisation; community needs; waste reduction; waste management.

DOI: 10.1504/IER.1999.053853

Interdisciplinary Environmental Review, 1999 Vol.1 No.2, pp.192 - 201

Published online: 13 May 2013 *

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