Description

Inside Waste Management’s Recycling Flywheel: Automation, Commodity Quality & A Structural Cost Advantage!

Waste Management (WM) has produced outstanding financial results for 2025, reflecting strengths in operational performance, strategic investments, and business integration. The company’s disciplined approach and integration of the Healthcare Solutions segment were instrumental in achieving record results and positioning for growth in 2026. There is significant momentum seen in both its core operations and sustainability-focused ventures, juxtaposed alongside challenges in certain revenue streams and detailed strategic goals adherence. Positives from this year’s performance include a noted 150 basis point improvement in operating EBITDA margin for the legacy WM businesses, highlighted by significant enhancements in operational efficiency, particularly in reducing labor and fleet maintenance costs. These improvements stemmed from strategic investments in personnel, technology, and fleet modernization, contributing to remarkable cost management that brought operating expenses under 60% of revenue for the first time in company history.