The Center serves the citizens of Florida by providing leadership in the field of waste management research and by supporting the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) in its mission to preserve and protect the state’s natural resources.

Each year the Center conducts a survey of research needs and, based on the responses to that survey, works with the FDEP and the Advisory Board to formulate a timely and practical research agenda. Faculty at Florida's universities are invited and encouraged to submit a proposal for consideration for funding.