For the merger to proceed, two-thirds of NRC members casting votes would have needed to support the merger. However, only 57% voted in favor. Overall, 46% of eligible NRC members cast votes in the online balloting, a number NRC officials described as unexpectedly high.

In the absence of the KAB merger, the NRC board plans on meeting within the next few weeks to discuss the group´s financial situation, said NRC Deputy Director Anjia Nicolaidis. The board will reassess whether to file for bankruptcy and look at any other possible options, she said.

While supporters of the merger proposal said they felt it was essential for the continuation of the group, opponents said it would lead to the end of an independent, nonprofit voice for recycling. Opponents were concerned that Keep America Beautiful´s board includes representatives of corporations including beverage companies, restaurants, paint manufacturers, waste management, and other industries.

Contact Waste & Recycling News senior reporter Bruce Geiselman at 330-865-6172 or bgeiselman@crain.com