The execution of our plans and achievement of our goals are subject to risks and uncertainties, including our ability to develop, obtain, license or scale the innovations, technologies and modeling and measurement tools that may be necessary to achieve our plans and the availability, cost and benefits of materials and infrastructure associated with our sustainability projects, such as our CNG vehicles, fleet electrification, recycling, circularity of key materials, landfill gas-to-energy and other renewable energy projects.
The execution of our plans and achievement of our goals are subject to risks and uncertainties, including our ability to develop, obtain, license or scale the innovations, technologies and modeling and measurement tools that may be necessary to achieve our plans and the availability, cost and benefits of materials and infrastructure associated with our sustainability projects, such as our CNG vehicles, fleet electrification, recycling, circularity of key materials, landfill gas-to-energy, solar and other renewable energy projects.
Words such as “guidance,” “expect,” “will,” “may,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “should,” “can,” “likely,” “could,” “outlook” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Among other sections of this Form 10-K, the Risk Factors and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations include forward-looking statements.
Words such as “guidance,” “expect,” “will,” “may,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “should,” “can,” “likely,” “could,” “outlook” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Among other sections of this Form 10-K, the Business, Risk Factors and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations include forward-looking statements.
Other Risks Relevant to Our Business Price increases may not be adequate to offset the effect of increased costs and may cause us to lose volume. We seek to secure price increases necessary to offset increased costs, improve our operating margins and earn an appropriate return on our substantial investments in assets such as our landfills.
Other Risks Relevant to Our Business Price increases may not be adequate to offset the effect of increased costs and may cause us to lose volume and customers. We seek to secure price increases necessary to offset increased costs, improve our operating margins and earn an appropriate return on our substantial investments in assets such as our landfills.
Our business is directly affected by changes in local, national, global and general economic factors and overall economic activity that are outside of our control, including changes in governmental monetary policies, international trade restrictions, consumer confidence, slowing economic growth, inflation, pandemics, supply chain issues and interest ra tes.
Our business is directly affected by changes in local, national, global and general economic factors and overall economic activity that are outside of our control, including changes in governmental monetary policies, tariffs and international trade restrictions, consumer confidence, slowing economic growth, inflation, pandemics, supply chain issues and interest ra tes.
The environmental services industry is a capital-intensive industry and our capital expenditures may exceed current expectations, which could require us to obtain additional funding for our operations or impair our ability to grow our business. Our ability to remain competitive and to grow our business largely depends on our cash flow from operations and access to capital.
The environmental services industry is capital-intensive and our capital expenditures may exceed current expectations, which could require us to obtain additional funding for our operations or impair our ability to grow our business. Our ability to remain competitive and to grow our business largely depends on our cash flow from operations and access to capital.
The business and assets we operate expose us to safety, operational and other risks, including the risk of personal injury to our employees or third parties. The provision of environmental services, including the operation of our facilities, a substantial fleet of trucks and other waste-related assets, involves risks.
The business and assets we operate expose us to safety, operational and other risks, including the risk of personal injury to our employees or third parties. The provision of environmental services, including the operation of our facilities, a substantial fleet of trucks and other environmental services-related assets, involves risks.
CERCLA liability also extends to parties who were site owners and operators at the time hazardous substances were disposed and on persons who arrange for the disposal of such substances at the facility (e.g., generators of the waste and transporters who selected the disposal site).
CERCLA liability also extends to parties who were site owners and operators at the time hazardous substances were disposed and to persons who arrange for the disposal of such substances at the facility (e.g., generators of the waste and transporters who selected the disposal site).
In addition, increasing governmental and societal attention to sustainability matters, including expanding mandatory and voluntary reporting, diligence and disclosure on topics such as climate change, waste production, water usage, talent management and risk oversight, could expand the nature, scope and complexity of matters that we are required to control, assess and report.
In addition, increasing governmental and societal attention to sustainability matters, including expanding mandatory and voluntary reporting in certain jurisdictions, diligence and disclosure on topics such as climate change, waste production, water usage, talent management and risk oversight, could expand the nature, scope and complexity of matters that we are required to control, assess and report.
We have invested higher upfront capital costs in order to purchase and support our CNG vehicles and fueling stations in order to reduce our overall fleet operating costs through lower fuel expenses and to create a competitive advantage in communities that focus on protecting the environment. CNG is not yet widely adopted in North America.
We have invested significant upfront capital costs to purchase and support our CNG vehicles and fueling stations in order to reduce our overall fleet operating costs through lower fuel expenses and to create a competitive advantage in communities that focus on protecting the environment. CNG is not yet widely adopted in North America.
These statements include statements about our plans, strategies and prospects. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of our management and are subject to risk and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied or projected by, the forward-looking information and statements.
These statements include statements about our plans, strategies and prospects. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of our management and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied or projected by, the forward-looking information and statements.
We could underestimate such accruals. Such shortfalls could result in significant unanticipated charges to income. Changes to federal renewable fuel policies could affect our financial performance in that sector as a renewable fuel producer and impact our projected future investments. We are engaged in 79 landfill gas-to-energy and other renewable energy projects.
We could underestimate such accruals. Such shortfalls could result in significant unanticipated charges to income. Changes to federal renewable fuel policies could affect our financial performance in that sector as a renewable fuel producer and impact our projected future investments. We are engaged in 84 landfill gas-to-energy and other renewable energy projects.
At current volumes and mix of materials, we believe a $10 per ton change in the price of recycled commodities change both annual revenue and operating income by approximately $11 million. Accordingly, a substantial rise or drop in recycled commodity prices could materially affect our revenue and operating income.
At current volumes and mix of materials, we believe a $10 per ton change in the price of recycled commodities change both annual revenue and operating income by approximately $13 million. Accordingly, a substantial rise or drop in recycled commodity prices could materially affect our revenue and operating income.
If our capital efficiency programs cannot offset the effect of inflation and business growth, it may be necessary to increase the amount we spend. Additionally, if we make acquisitions or further expand our operations, the amount we spend on capital, capping, closure, post-closure, environmental remediation and other items will increase.
If our capital efficiency programs cannot offset the effect of inflation and business growth, it may be necessary to increase the amount we spend. Additionally, as we make acquisitions and further expand our operations, the amount we spend on capital, capping, closure, post-closure, environmental remediation and other items will increase.
At current participation rates, we believe a twenty-cent per gallon change in the price of diesel fuel changes our fuel recovery fee by approximately $38 million. A substantial rise or drop in fuel costs could materially affect our revenue and cost of operations.
At current participation rates, we believe a twenty-cent per gallon change in the price of diesel fuel changes our fuel recovery fee by approximately $42 million. A substantial rise or drop in fuel costs could materially affect our revenue and cost of operations.
At current consumption levels, a twenty-cent per gallon change in the price of diesel fuel changes our fuel costs by approximately $27 million on an annual basis. Offsetting these changes in fuel expense would be changes in our fuel recovery fee charged to our customers.
At current consumption levels, a twenty-cent per gallon change in the price of diesel fuel changes our fuel costs by approximately $26 million on an annual basis. Offsetting these changes in fuel expense would be changes in our fuel recovery fee charged to our customers.
In addition, we have certain fixed costs (e.g., facility expense associated with long-term leases, 30 Table of Contents depreciation expense and accretion expense), which may be difficult to adjust quickly to match declining volume levels. Consumer uncertainty and the loss of consumer confidence may decrease overall economic activity and thereby limit the amount of services we provide.
In addition, we have certain fixed costs (e.g., facility expense associated with long-term leases, depreciation expense and accretion expense), which may be difficult to adjust quickly to match declining volume levels. Consumer uncertainty and the loss of consumer confidence may decrease overall economic activity and thereby limit the amount of services we provide.
This federal system imposes a carbon levy to the sale of fuel and sets out an output-based pricing system that applies to industrial emitters that meet certain criteria set out in the statute and its regulations, which creates a price incentive for industrial emitters to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by establishing a regulatory trading system for industry.
This federal system imposed a carbon levy to the sale of fuel (fuel charge) and sets out an output-based pricing system that applies to industrial emitters that meet certain criteria set out in the statute and its regulations, which creates a price incentive for industrial emitters to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by establishing a regulatory trading system for industry.
Efforts to curtail the emission of greenhouse gases and to ameliorate the effects of climate change continue to progress. Our landfill operations emit anthropogenic methane, identified as a greenhouse gas, and our vehicle fleet emits, among other things, 25 Table of Contents carbon dioxide, which also is a greenhouse gas.
Efforts to curtail the emission of greenhouse gases and to ameliorate the effects of climate change continue to progress. Our landfill operations emit anthropogenic methane, identified as a greenhouse gas, and our vehicle fleet emits, among other things, carbon dioxide, which also is a greenhouse gas.
Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations expressed in the forward-looking statements are: • general economic and market conditions, including inflation and changes in fuel, interest rates, international trade restrictions, labor, risk, health insurance and other variable costs that generally are not within our control, and our exposure to credit and counterparty risk; • fluctuations in prices for recycled commodities that we sell to customers; • whether our estimates and assumptions concerning critical accounting issues are correct or appropriate, including estimates and assumptions concerning selected balance sheet accounts, income tax accounts, final capping, closure, post-closure and remediation costs, available airspace, projected costs and expenses related to our landfills and property and equipment, fair values of acquired assets and liabilities assumed in our acquisitions and labor, fuel rates and economic and inflationary trends; • competition and demand for services in the environmental services industry; 20 Table of Contents • price increases to our customers, which may not be adequate to offset the impact of increased costs, including labor, third-party disposal and fuel and may cause us to lose volume; • our ability to manage growth and execute our growth strategy; • our compliance with, and future changes in, environmental and flow control regulations and our ability to obtain approvals from regulatory agencies in connection with operating and expanding our landfills and other facilities; • the impact on us of our substantial indebtedness, including on our ability to obtain financing on acceptable terms to finance our operations and growth strategy and to operate within the limitations imposed by financing arrangements; • our ability to retain our investment grade ratings for our debt; • our dependence on key personnel; • our dependence on large, long-term collection, transfer and disposal contracts; • the capital intensive nature of our business, which may consume cash in excess of cash flow from operations; • exposure to liabilities or losses, to the extent not adequately covered by insurance, which could result in substantial expenses; • risks associated with undisclosed liabilities of acquired businesses; • risks associated with pending and future legal proceedings, including litigation, audits or investigations brought by or before any governmental body; • severe weather conditions, including those brought about by climate change, which could impair our financial results by causing increased costs, loss of revenue, reduced operational efficiency or disruptions to our operations; • compliance with existing and future legal and regulatory requirements, including changes relating to PFAS and other chemicals of emerging concern and limitations or bans on disposal of certain types of wastes or on the transportation of waste, which could limit our ability to conduct or grow our business, increase our costs to operate or require additional capital expenditures; • our ability to achieve reduction in our greenhouse gas emissions and our other sustainability goals; • safety and operational risks, including the risk of personal injury to our employees or third parties; • potential increases in our costs if we are required to provide additional funding to any multiemployer pension plan to which we contribute or if a withdrawal event (including our voluntary withdrawal, which we consider from time to time, or the mass withdrawal of all contributing employers from any underfunded multiemployer pension plan) occurs with respect to any such plan; • the negative impact on our operations of union organizing campaigns, work stoppages or labor shortages; • the negative effect that trends toward requiring recycling, waste reduction at the source and prohibiting the disposal of certain types of wastes could have on volumes of waste going to landfills; • changes by the Financial Accounting Standards Board or other accounting regulatory bodies to generally accepted accounting principles or policies; • the impact of United States and international tax laws and regulations on our business; • risks related to interruptions and breaches of our information technology systems that could adversely affect, or temporarily disable, all or a portion of our operations or have a negative effect on our infrastructure; • the negative impact that a cyber-security incident could have on our business and our relationships with customers and employees; and • acts of war, riots or terrorism, including the continuing war on terrorism, as well as actions taken or to be taken by the United States or other governments as a result of further acts or threats of terrorism and the impact of these acts on economic, financial and social conditions in the United States.
Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations expressed in the forward-looking statements are: • general economic and market conditions, including inflation and changes in fuel costs, interest rates, tariffs and international trade restrictions, labor, health insurance and other variable costs that generally are not within our control, and our exposure to credit and counterparty risk; • fluctuations in prices and demand for recycled commodities that we sell to customers; • whether our estimates and assumptions concerning critical accounting issues are correct or appropriate, including estimates and assumptions concerning selected balance sheet accounts, income tax accounts, final capping, closure, post-closure and remediation costs, available airspace, projected costs and expenses related to our landfills and property and equipment, fair values of acquired assets and liabilities assumed in our acquisitions and labor, fuel rates and economic and inflationary trends; • competition and demand for services in the environmental services industry; • our ability to increase prices to our customers, which may not be adequate to offset the impact of increased costs, including labor, third-party disposal and fuel and may cause us to lose volume; • our ability to manage growth and execute our growth strategy; • our compliance with, and future changes in, environmental and flow control regulations and our ability to obtain approvals from regulatory agencies in connection with operating and expanding our landfills and other facilities; • the impact on us of our substantial indebtedness, including on our ability to obtain financing on acceptable terms to finance our operations and growth strategy and to operate within the limitations imposed by financing arrangements; • our ability to retain our investment grade ratings for our debt; • our dependence on key personnel; • our dependence on large, long-term collection, transfer and disposal contracts; • the capital intensive nature of our business, which may consume cash in excess of cash flow from operations; • exposure to liabilities or losses, to the extent not adequately covered by insurance, which could result in substantial expenses; • risks associated with undisclosed liabilities of acquired businesses; 19 T a b l e o f C o n t e n t s • risks associated with pending and future legal proceedings, including litigation, audits or investigations brought by or before any governmental body; • severe weather conditions, including those brought about by climate change, which could impair our financial results by causing increased costs, loss of revenue, reduced operational efficiency or disruptions to our operations; • compliance with existing and future legal and regulatory requirements, including changes relating to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (commonly referred to as PFAS) and other chemicals of emerging concern and limitations or bans on disposal of certain types of wastes or on the transportation of waste, which could limit our ability to conduct or grow our business, increase our costs to operate or require additional capital expenditures; • our ability to achieve reduction in our greenhouse gas emissions and our other sustainability goals; • safety and operational risks, including the risk of personal injury to our employees or third parties; • potential increases in our costs if we are required to provide additional funding to any multiemployer pension plan to which we contribute or if a withdrawal event (including our voluntary withdrawal, which we consider from time to time, or the mass withdrawal of all contributing employers from any underfunded multiemployer pension plan) occurs with respect to any such plan; • the negative impact on our operations of union organizing campaigns, work stoppages or labor shortages; • the negative effect on our revenues that trends toward requiring recycling, waste reduction at the source and prohibiting the disposal of certain types of wastes could have on volumes of waste going to landfills; • changes to generally accepted accounting principles or policies; • the impact of United States and international tax laws and regulations on our business; • risks related to interruptions and breaches of our information technology systems that could adversely affect, or temporarily disable, all or a portion of our operations or have a negative effect on our infrastructure; • the negative impact that a significant cyber-security incident could have on our business and our relationships with our employees, customers and vendors; and • acts of war, riots or terrorism, including the continuing war on terrorism, as well as actions taken or to be taken by the United States or other governments as a result of further acts or threats of terrorism and the impact of these acts on economic, financial and social conditions in the United States.
Competition for collection accounts is typically based on the quality of services, ease of doing business and/or price. Competition for disposal business is primarily based on geographic location, quality of operations and price. One of our competitors may have greater financial and operational resources than we do.
Competition for collection accounts is typically based on the quality of services, ease of doing business and/or price. Competition for disposal business is primarily based on geographic location, quality of operations and price. Certain competitors may have greater financial and operational resources than we do.
Our Group 3 operations and facilities also are subject to Canadian environmental laws and regulations, including federal and provincial regulations governing the management of hazardous waste, as well as various treaties, laws and regulations governing the ownership, operation and maintenance of maritime vessels used in the business.
Our environmental solutions operations and facilities also are subject to Canadian environmental laws and regulations, including federal and provincial regulations governing the management of hazardous waste, as well as various treaties, laws and regulations governing the ownership, operation and maintenance of maritime vessels used in the business.
As we assume more risk for insurance through higher retention levels, we may experience more variability in our insurance reserves and expense. 26 Table of Contents Despite our efforts, we may incur additional liability under environmental laws in excess of amounts presently known and accrued.
As we assume more risk for insurance through higher retention levels, we may experience more variability in our insurance reserves and expense. Despite our efforts, we may incur additional liability under environmental laws in excess of amounts presently known and accrued.
Also, the 29 Table of Contents regulatory environment surrounding information security and privacy is increasingly demanding, with the frequent imposition of new and constantly changing requirements. This changing regulatory landscape may cause increasingly complex compliance challenges, which may increase our compliance costs.
Also, the regulatory environment surrounding information security and privacy is increasingly demanding, with the frequent imposition of new and constantly changing requirements. This changing regulatory landscape may cause increasingly complex compliance challenges, which may increase our compliance costs.
Fluctuations in prices for recycled commodities that we sell to customers may adversely affect our consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. 22 Table of Contents We purchase or collect and process recyclable materials such as paper, cardboard, plastics, aluminum and other metals for sale to third parties.
Fluctuations in prices and demand for recycled commodities that we sell to customers may adversely affect our consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. We purchase or collect and process recyclable materials such as paper, cardboard, plastics, aluminum and other metals for sale to third parties.
In recent years, for example, the COVID-19 pandemic, inflation, the Ukraine-Russia conflict, United States -China relations, the Israel-Gaza conflict, monetary policy changes, and the resulting increases in interest rates negatively impacted the economy, disrupted supply chains and created significant volatility and disruption of financial markets.
In recent years, for example, inflation, the Ukraine-Russia conflict, United States -China relations, the Israel-Gaza conflict, monetary policy changes, and the resulting increases in interest rates have negatively impacted the economy, disrupted supply chains and created significant volatility and disruption of financial markets.
We may not be able to find and train qualified personnel, or do so on a timely basis, or to expand or otherwise modify our operations and systems to the extent, and in the time, required. 28 Table of Contents We may be unable to execute our acquisition growth strategy.
We may not be able to find and train qualified personnel, or do so on a timely basis, or to expand or otherwise modify our operations and systems to the extent, and in the time, required. We may be unable to execute our acquisition growth strategy.
Local communities and citizen groups, adjacent landowners, governmental agencies and others may oppose the issuance of a permit or approval we may need, allege violations of the permits under which we currently operate or laws or regulations to which we are subject, or seek to impose liability on us for environmental damage.
Local communities and citizen groups, adjacent landowners, governmental agencies and others have in the past opposed and may in the future oppose the issuance of a permit or approval we may need, allege violations of the permits under which we currently operate or laws or regulations to which we are subject, or seek to impose liability on us for environmental damage.
If we fail to assess and identify cybersecurity threats associated with acquisitions and new initiatives, we may become increasingly vulnerable to such threats. Additionally, while we have implemented measures to prevent security breaches and cyber incidents, our preventive measures and incident response efforts may not be entirely effective.
If we fail to assess and identify cybersecurity threats associated with acquisitions and new initiatives, we may become increasingly vulnerable to such threats. Additionally, while we have implemented measures to prevent security breaches and cyber incidents, like many companies we have periodically experienced cyber incidents, and our preventive measures and incident response efforts may not be entirely effective.
In addition, environmental regulatory changes, including those relating to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (commonly referred to as PFAS) and other chemicals of emerging concern, could accelerate or increase expenditures for capping, closure, post-closure and environmental and remediation activities at our waste facilities and obligate us to spend sums in addition to those presently accrued for such purposes, which could have a negative effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
In addition, environmental regulatory changes, including those relating to PFAS and other chemicals of emerging concern, could accelerate or increase expenditures for capping, closure, post-closure and environmental and remediation activities at our waste facilities and obligate us to spend sums in addition to those accrued for such purposes, which could have a negative effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
Complying with new accounting rules, laws or regulations, such as, for example, those related to our asset retirement obligations and environmental liabilities, could adversely impact our results of operations or cause unanticipated fluctuations in our results of operations or financial conditions in future periods. In September 2024, the U.S.
Complying with new accounting rules, laws or regulations, such as, for example, those related to our asset retirement obligations and environmental liabilities, could adversely impact our results of operations or cause unanticipated fluctuations in our results of operations or financial conditions in future periods.
The costs associated with developing or investing in emerging technologies could require substantial capital and adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows. Delays in the development or implementation of such emerging technologies and difficulties in marketing new products or services based on emerging technologies could have similar negative impacts.
The costs associated with developing or investing in emerging technologies, particularly data-intensive and compute-intensive AI applications, could require substantial capital and adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows. Delays in the development or implementation of such emerging technologies and difficulties in marketing new products or services based on emerging technologies could have similar negative impacts.
Significant items requiring management to make subjective or complex judgments that are inherently uncertain include the recoverability of long-lived assets, the depletion and amortization of landfill development costs, accruals for final capping, closure and post-closure costs, valuation allowances for accounts receivable and deferred tax assets, liabilities for potential litigation, claims and assessments and liabilities for environmental remediation, multiemployer pension plans, employee benefit plans, deferred taxes, uncertain tax positions, insurance and our estimates of the fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in any acquisition.
Significant items requiring management to make subjective or complex judgments that are inherently uncertain include the recoverability of long-lived assets, the depletion 26 T a b l e o f C o n t e n t s and amortization of landfill development costs, accruals for final capping, closure and post-closure costs, valuation allowances for accounts receivable and deferred tax assets, liabilities for potential litigation, claims and assessments and liabilities for environmental remediation, multiemployer pension plans, employee benefit plans, deferred taxes, uncertain tax positions, insurance and our estimates of the fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in any acquisition.
We could underestimate such costs and our financial obligations for capping, closure, post-closure or remediation costs could exceed the amounts accrued or amounts otherwise receivable pursuant to trust funds established for this purpose.
We establish accruals for the estimated costs associated with capping, closure, post-closure and remediation obligations. We could underestimate such costs and our financial obligations for capping, closure, post-closure or remediation costs could exceed the amounts accrued or amounts otherwise receivable pursuant to trust funds established for this purpose.
If we do not comply with these covenants, we may be required to take actions such as reducing or delaying capital expenditures, reducing or eliminating dividends or stock repurchases, selling assets, restructuring or refinancing all or part of our existing debt, or seeking additional equity capital.
If we do not comply with these covenants, we may be required to take actions such as reducing or delaying capital expenditures, reducing or eliminating dividends or stock repurchases, selling assets, restructuring or refinancing all or part of our existing debt, or seeking additional equity capital. We may be unable to maintain our credit ratings or execute our financial strategy.
Due to contractual or market factors, we may not be able to offset increased fuel costs resulting from such volatility through fuel recovery fees. Our fuel costs were $470 million in 2024, or 2.9% of revenue, compared to $542 million in 2023, or 3.6% of revenue.
Due to contractual or market factors, we may not be able to offset increased fuel costs resulting from such volatility through fuel recovery fees. Our fuel costs were $466 million in 2025, or 2.8% of revenue, compared to $470 million in 2024, or 2.9% of revenue.
Our Group 3 operations are also subject to federal statutes regulating the treatment, storage and disposal of certain radioactive materials.
Our environmental solutions operations are also subject to federal statutes regulating the treatment, storage and disposal of certain radioactive materials.
As a result, we may be required to pay fines or judgments or implement corrective measures, or we may have our permits and licenses modified or revoked.
As a result, we have in the past been required and may in the future be required to pay fines or judgments or implement corrective measures, or we may have our permits and licenses modified or revoked.
Climate change and other sustainability matters are embedded in our core value and vision. As part of our strategic long-term plans to address sustainability, among other sustainability goals, we are committed to reducing our absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions 35% by 2030 relative to the 2017 baseline year.
As part of our strategic long-term plans to address sustainability, among other sustainability goals, we are committed to reducing our absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions 35% by 2030 relative to the 2017 baseline year.
If our capping, closure, post-closure or remediation costs exceed the amounts accrued, or if such accruals are required to be accelerated, this could have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Alternatives to landfill disposal could reduce our disposal volumes and cause our revenues and operating results to decline.
If our capping, closure, post-closure or remediation costs exceed the amounts accrued, or if such accruals are required to be accelerated, this could have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
As of December 31, 2024, we had approximately $13 billion in principal value of debt and finance leases outstanding.
As of December 31, 2025, we had approximately $14 billion in principal value of debt and finance leases outstanding.
The risks included here are not exhaustive. Refer to the Risk Factors in this Item 1A for further discussion regarding our exposure to risks. You should be aware that any forward-looking statement in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the documents incorporated herein by reference or elsewhere, speaks only as of the date on which we make it.
The risks identified in the bullet points above are not exhaustive. Refer to the Risk Factors below in this Item 1A for further discussion regarding our exposure to risks. Any forward-looking statement in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the documents incorporated herein by reference or elsewhere, speaks only as of the date on which we make it.
Many of the largest companies in the United States are setting zero-waste goals in which they strive to send no waste to landfills and some jurisdictions have enacted or are considering waste reduction regulations such as extended producer responsibility, organic diversion and minimum recycled content regulations.
Many of the largest companies in 22 T a b l e o f C o n t e n t s the United States are setting zero-waste goals in which they strive to send no waste to landfills and some jurisdictions have enacted or are considering waste reduction regulations such as extended producer responsibility, organic diversion and minimum recycled content regulations.
Our financial results may suffer if we are not able to develop or license emerging technologies, or if a competitor obtains exclusive rights to an emerging technology that disrupts the current methods used in the environmental services industry. A cybersecurity incident could negatively impact our business and our relationships with customers.
Our financial results may suffer if we are not able to develop or license emerging technologies, or if a competitor obtains exclusive rights to an emerging technology that disrupts the current methods used in the environmental services industry.
Our results of operations may be affected by changing prices or market requirements for recyclable materials. The resale and purchase prices of, and market demand for, recyclable materials are volatile due to changes in economic conditions and numerous other factors beyond our control.
Our results of operations may be affected by changing prices or market requirements for recyclable materials. The resale and purchase prices of, and market demand for, recyclable materials are volatile due to changes in economic conditions and numerous other factors beyond our control. For instance, several states have passed legislation commonly referred to as Extended Producer Responsibility.
We use information technology and operational technology assets, including computer and information networks, in substantially all aspects of our business operations. We also use mobile devices, social networking and other online activities to connect with our employees and our customers. Such uses give rise to cybersecurity risks, including security breach, espionage, system disruption, theft and inadvertent release of information.
We also use mobile devices, social networking and other online activities to connect with our employees, customers and vendors. Such uses give rise to cybersecurity risks, including security breach, espionage, system disruption, theft and inadvertent release of information.
You should not place undue reliance on any forward- 21 Table of Contents looking statement.
You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statement.
We have experienced interrupted service when our union-represented employees have engaged in strikes and work stoppages in the past, and we would expect the same to occur as a result of any future strikes or work stoppages. Additional groups of employees may seek union representation in the future which could result in increased operating costs.
We have experienced interrupted service when our union-represented employees have engaged in strikes and work stoppages in the past, including in 2025, and we would expect the same to occur as a result of any future strikes or work stoppages.
We may be subject to work stoppages and other workforce effects, which could increase our operating costs and disrupt our operations. As of December 31, 2024, approximately 22% of our workforce was covered by collective bargaining agreements.
We are periodically subject to work stoppages and other workforce effects, which increases our operating costs and disrupts our operations. As of December 31, 2025, approximately 22% of our workforce was covered by collective bargaining agreements.
If our union-represented employees engage in strikes, work stoppages or other slowdowns, we could experience a significant disruption of 24 Table of Contents our operations and an increase in our operating costs, which could have an adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
When our union-represented employees engage in strikes, work stoppages or other slowdowns, we typically experience disruptions of our operations and increases in our operating costs, which may be significant, and which may have an adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
These and other rapidly changing laws, regulations, policies and related interpretations, as well as increased enforcement actions by various governmental and regulatory agencies, create challenges for us.
These and other rapidly changing laws, regulations, policies and related interpretations, as well as 23 T a b l e o f C o n t e n t s increased enforcement actions by various governmental and regulatory agencies, create challenges for us.
For example, we have operations in multiple states that are affected by hurricanes and/or wildfires, and we have seen the impact of storms and associated flooding or other damage in our day-to-day operations and to our infrastructure. Changing weather patterns and rising temperatures are expected to result in more severe heat waves, fires, storms and other extreme weather events.
For example, we have operations in multiple states that are affected by hurricanes and/or wildfires, and we have seen the impact of storms and associated flooding or other damage in our day-to-day operations and to our infrastructure.
We may not be able to maintain our investment grade ratings in the future. If we were unable to do so, our interest expense would increase and our ability to obtain financing on favorable terms may be adversely affected.
If we are unable to do so, our interest expense would increase and our ability to obtain financing on favorable terms may be adversely affected.
Permits often take years to obtain as a result of numerous hearings and compliance requirements with regard to zoning, environmental and other regulations. These permits are also often subject to resistance from citizen or other groups and other political pressures.
Permits often take years to obtain as a result of numerous hearings and compliance requirements with regard to zoning, environmental and other regulations.
We may be unable to maintain our credit ratings or execute our financial strategy. 27 Table of Contents Our ability to execute our financial strategy depends in part on our ability to maintain investment grade ratings on our debt. The credit rating process is contingent upon a number of factors, many of which are beyond our control.
Our ability to execute our financial strategy depends in part on our ability to maintain investment grade ratings on our debt. Our credit ratings depend on a number of factors, many of which are beyond our control, and we may not be able to maintain our investment grade ratings.
We have significant financial obligations relating to capping, closure, post-closure and remediation costs at our existing owned or operated landfills, and will have material financial obligations with respect to any future owned or operated landfills. We establish accruals for the estimated costs associated with capping, closure, post-closure and remediation obligations.
Further, we undertake remediation activities at some of our solid waste facilities. We have significant financial obligations relating to capping, closure, post-closure and remediation costs at our existing owned or operated landfills, and will have material financial obligations with respect to any future owned or operated landfills.
Most of the states in which we operate landfills require counties and municipalities to formulate comprehensive plans to reduce the volume of solid waste deposited in landfills through waste planning, composting, recycling or other programs.
Alternatives to landfill disposal, and increasing customer preferences for these alternatives, could reduce our disposal volumes and cause our revenues and operating results to decline. Most of the states in which we operate landfills require counties and municipalities to formulate comprehensive plans to reduce the volume of solid waste deposited in landfills through waste planning, composting, recycling or other programs.
In addition, we may have to transport and dispose collected waste at facilities operated by our competitors or haul the waste long distances at a higher cost to one of our other facilities, either of which could significantly increase our waste transportation and disposal costs. 23 Table of Contents If we do not appropriately estimate landfill capping, closure, post-closure and remediation costs, our consolidated financial condition and results of operations may be adversely affected.
In addition, we may have to transport and dispose collected waste at facilities operated by our competitors or haul the waste long distances at a higher cost to one of our other facilities, either of which could significantly increase our waste transportation and disposal costs.
Further, any systems failures could impede our ability to timely collect and report financial results in accordance with applicable laws. Emerging technologies, including those that are used to recycle and process waste as an alternative to disposal of waste in landfills, represent risks, as well as opportunities, to our current business model.
Emerging technologies, including those that are used to recycle and process waste as an alternative to disposal of waste in landfills, represent risks, as well as opportunities, to our current business model.
If a greater percentage of our workforce becomes union-represented, our consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be adversely impacted due to the potential for increased operating costs. We may not be able to achieve reduction of our greenhouse gas emissions and our other sustainability goals.
Additional groups of employees may seek union representation in the future which could result in further increased operating costs. If a greater percentage of our workforce becomes union-represented, our consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be adversely impacted due to the potential for increased operating costs.
We depend on fuel purchased in the open market to operate our collection and transfer trucks and other equipment used for collection, transfer, disposal and other environmental services.
Increases in the cost of fuel or petrochemicals increase our operating expenses, and we may not be able to recover such cost increases from our customers. We depend on fuel purchased in the open market to operate our collection and transfer trucks and other equipment used for collection, transfer, disposal and other environmental services.
GAAP), we capitalize certain expenditures relating to the development and expansion of landfills, transfer stations and other projects.
In accordance with the accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (U.S. GAAP), we capitalize certain expenditures relating to the development and expansion of landfills, transfer stations and other projects.
The application of these or other greenhouse gas regulations to our landfills could have a material adverse effect on our landfill operations and on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. We cannot predict what other actions or regulations the current administration may undertake that would affect our industry.
The application of these or other greenhouse gas 24 T a b l e o f C o n t e n t s regulations to our landfills could have a material adverse effect on our landfill operations and on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
A landfill must be closed and capped, and post-closure maintenance commenced, once the landfill's permitted capacity is reached and additional capacity is not authorized. Further, we undertake remediation activities at some of our solid waste facilities.
If we do not appropriately estimate landfill capping, closure, post-closure and remediation costs, our consolidated financial condition and results of operations may be adversely affected. A landfill must be closed and capped, and post-closure maintenance commenced, once the landfill's permitted capacity is reached and additional capacity is not authorized.
However, we may not be able to obtain indemnification, insurance coverage or other security, and such indemnification, insurance coverage or other security obtained may not be enforceable, collectible or sufficient in amount, scope or duration to fully offset any undisclosed liabilities arising from our acquisitions.
However, we may not be able to obtain indemnification, insurance coverage or other security, and such indemnification, insurance coverage or other security obtained may not be enforceable, collectible or sufficient in amount, scope or duration to fully offset any undisclosed liabilities arising from our acquisitions. 27 T a b l e o f C o n t e n t s Risks Related to Technology and Intellectual Property Our strategy includes an increasing dependence on technology, including the use of artificial intelligence (AI), in our operations.
For example, we incur costs to defend against litigation brought by government agencies and private parties who allege we are in violation of our permits and applicable environmental laws and regulations, or who assert claims alleging nuisance, environmental damage, personal injury or property damage.
Further, the possible outcomes or resolutions to these matters could include adverse judgments, fines or settlements, any of which could require substantial payments and adversely affect our consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. 25 T a b l e o f C o n t e n t s For example, we incur costs to defend against litigation brought by government agencies and private parties who allege we are in violation of our permits and applicable environmental laws and regulations, or who assert claims alleging nuisance, environmental damage, personal injury or property damage.
If we were to lose market share or if we were to lower prices to address competitive issues, it could negatively impact our consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Increases in the cost of fuel or petrochemicals increase our operating expenses, and we may not be able to recover such cost increases from our customers.
If we were to lose market share or if we were to 20 T a b l e o f C o n t e n t s lower prices to address competitive issues, it could negatively impact our consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
As a result, we may be unable to offset increases in costs, improve our operating margins and obtain adequate investment returns through price increases. Price increases also might cause us to lose volume to lower-cost competitors. The loss of key personnel could have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and growth prospects.
Price increases also might cause us to lose volume to lower-cost competitors. 28 T a b l e o f C o n t e n t s The loss of key personnel or the inability to attract, hire or retain key team members and a high-quality workforce could have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and growth prospects.
Further, even if we can develop such service offerings and lines of business, disposal alternatives nonetheless could have a negative effect on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Further, even if we can develop such service offerings and lines of business, disposal alternatives nonetheless could negatively affect our consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. We could incur charges to income, which could be material, if landfill and transfer station site development projects or expansion projects are not completed, or certain other events occur.
Risks Related to Technology and Intellectual Property Our strategy includes an increasing dependence on technology in our operations. If any of our key technology fails, our business could be adversely affected. Our operations are increasingly dependent on technology.
If any of our key technology fails, our business could be adversely affected. Our operations are increasingly dependent on technology, including AI and machine learning tools that we deploy or that are embedded in systems provided by third parties.
Significant price fluctuations or increased operating costs may affect our consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. In 2024, approximately 82% of our recycling center volume was fiber-based and included OCC, ONP and other mixed paper.
These laws are intended to shift the cost of recycling from consumers to producers while also mandating increased supply, which could lead to lower commodity prices. Significant price fluctuations or increased operating costs may affect our consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.