ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the role of quasi-public organisations in the development of markets for solid-waste management. The theory of 'clusters' has recognised the importance of co-operation networks to develop firms and make regions and companies more competitive. The chapter analyses the case of solid-waste management by the initiatives of the Federation of the Industries of the State of Rio de Janeiro (FIRJAN) in Brazil. In 1998, FlRJAN's Department of Environmental Management created the Environmental Exchange Program, which organises tours to industries in Rio State that have innovative solutions in waste. Economic mechanisms have been used from forestry to energy and waste management. In the new paradigm of sustainable development, the implementation of environmental policies needs intricate relations, not only intra-organisational but especially inter-organisational. In solid-waste management, several examples demonstrate the role of public or quasi-public organisations in developing markets to alleviate environmental problems.
