text: our company to negotiate volume discounts for certain purchases, including waste disposal rates at 
  landÑlls operated by third parties. Furthermore, we have taken steps to increase utilization of our 
  assets. For example, to reduce the number of collection vehicles and maximize the eÇciency of our 
  Öeet, we have instituted a grid productivity program which allows us to benchmark the performance of 
  all of our drivers. In our larger markets, we also use a route optimization program to minimize drive 
  times and improve operating density. By using assets more eÇciently, operating expenses can be 
  signiÑcantly reduced. 
  
  ‚***High Levels of Customer Satisfaction.***Our goal of maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction 
  complements our operating strategy. Our personalized sales process is oriented towards maintaining 
  relationships and ensuring that service is being properly provided. 
  
  ‚***Utilize Systems to Improve Consistency in Financial and Operational Reporting.***We continue to 
  focus on systems and training initiatives that complement our operating strategy. These initiatives 
  include contact management, billing, productivity, maintenance and general ledger systems. These 
  systems provide us with detailed information, prepared in a consistent manner, that will allow us to 
  quickly analyze and act upon trends in our business. 
  
  For certain risks related to our operating strategy, see ""Risk Factors.'' 