WM Inc. says business conditions continue to improve

July 29 -- Waste Management Inc. says business conditions continued to improve during the second quarter as revenue jumped and earnings held steady.

The Houston-based solid waste management company earned $246 million, or 51 cents per diluted share, on revenue of $3.16 billion during the quarter ended June 30. That compares with earnings of $247 million, or 50 cents per diluted share, on revenue of $2.95 billion for the second quarter of 2009.

"Business conditions continued to improve during the second quarter of 2010. Revenue increased 7% percent compared with the second quarter of 2009 and volume comparisons continued to show improving trends," CEO David P. Steiner said.

The company also reported that average recycling commodity prices were 78% higher for the quarter compared with the same period in 2009.

Contact Waste & Recycling News senior reporter Jim Johnson at 937-964-1289 or jpjohnson@crain.com