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Document and Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Billions	12 Months Ended
Document and Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Billions	Dec. 31, 2016	Feb. 02, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2016
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	WM
Entity Registrant Name	WASTE MANAGEMENT INC
Entity Central Index Key	0000823768
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		439,703,007
Entity Public Float			$ 29.2

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 32	$ 39
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $24 and $25, respectively	1,700	1,549
Other receivables	432	545
Parts and supplies	90	92
Other assets	122	120
Total current assets	2,376	2,345
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization of $17,152 and $16,420, respectively	10,950	10,665
Goodwill	6,215	5,984
Other intangible assets, net	591	477
Investments in unconsolidated entities	320	360
Other assets	407	536
Total assets	20,859	20,367
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	799	721
Accrued liabilities	1,085	1,064
Deferred revenues	493	472
Current portion of long-term debt	417	253
Total current liabilities	2,794	2,510
Long-term debt, less current portion	8,893	8,676
Deferred income taxes	1,482	1,391
Landfill and environmental remediation liabilities	1,675	1,584
Other liabilities	695	839
Total liabilities	15,539	15,000
Commitments and contingencies
Waste Management, Inc. stockholders' equity:
Common stock, $0.01 par value; 1,500,000,000 shares authorized; 630,282,461 shares issued	6	6
Additional paid-in capital	4,850	4,827
Retained earnings	7,388	6,939
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	(80)	(127)
Treasury stock at cost, 190,966,584 and 183,105,326 shares, respectively	(6,867)	(6,300)
Total Waste Management, Inc. stockholders' equity	5,297	5,345
Noncontrolling interests	23	22
Total equity	5,320	5,367
Total liabilities and equity	$ 20,859	$ 20,367

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 24	$ 25
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	$ 17,152	$ 16,420
Common stock, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	1,500,000,000	1,500,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	630,282,461	630,282,461
Treasury stock, shares	190,966,584	183,105,326

Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Statement [Abstract]
Operating revenues	$ 13,609	$ 12,961	$ 13,996
Costs and expenses:
Operating	8,486	8,231	9,002
Selling, general and administrative	1,410	1,343	1,481
Depreciation and amortization	1,301	1,245	1,292
Restructuring	4	15	82
(Income) expense from divestitures, asset impairments and unusual items	112	82	(160)
Total costs and expenses	11,313	10,916	11,697
Income from operations	2,296	2,045	2,299
Other income (expense):
Interest expense, net	(376)	(385)	(466)
Loss on early extinguishment of debt	(4)	(555)
Equity in net losses of unconsolidated entities	(44)	(38)	(53)
Other, net	(50)	(7)	(29)
Total other income (expense)	(474)	(985)	(548)
Income (loss) before income taxes	1,822	1,060	1,751
Provision for income taxes	642	308	413
Consolidated net income	1,180	752	1,338
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	(2)	(1)	40
Net income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	$ 1,182	$ 753	$ 1,298
Basic earnings per common share	$ 2.66	$ 1.66	$ 2.80
Diluted earnings per common share	2.65	1.65	2.79
Cash dividends declared per common share	$ 1.64	$ 1.54	$ 1.50

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Consolidated net income	$ 1,180	$ 752	$ 1,338
Derivative instruments, net	12	9	1
Available-for-sale securities, net	5	(2)	4
Foreign currency translation adjustments	28	(159)	(124)
Post-retirement benefit obligation, net	2	2	(12)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax provision (benefit)	47	(150)	(131)
Comprehensive income	1,227	602	1,207
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	(2)	(1)	40
Comprehensive income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	$ 1,229	$ 603	$ 1,167

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash flows from operating activities:
Consolidated net income	$ 1,180	$ 752	$ 1,338
Adjustments to reconcile consolidated net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	1,301	1,245	1,292
Deferred income tax (benefit) provision	73	30	(118)
Interest accretion on landfill liabilities	91	89	88
Interest accretion on and discount rate adjustments to environmental remediation liabilities and recovery assets		1	14
Provision for bad debts	42	36	42
Equity-based compensation expense	90	72	65
Excess tax benefits associated with equity-based transactions	(28)	(15)	(5)
Net gain on disposal of assets	(24)	(18)	(35)
(Income) expense from divestitures, asset impairments and other, net	110	87	(127)
Equity in net losses of unconsolidated entities, net of dividends	44	42	42
Loss on early extinguishment of debt	4	555
Change in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and divestitures:
Receivables	(78)	(178)	(268)
Other current assets	(12)	16	(19)
Other assets	78	(7)	22
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	174	(112)	117
Deferred revenues and other liabilities	(85)	(97)	(117)
Net cash provided by operating activities	2,960	2,498	2,331
Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired	(611)	(554)	(35)
Capital expenditures	(1,339)	(1,233)	(1,151)
Proceeds from divestitures of businesses and other assets (net of cash divested)	43	145	2,253
Net receipts from restricted trust and escrow accounts		51	19
Investments in unconsolidated entities	(21)	(20)	(33)
Other, net	(4)	3	(58)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	(1,932)	(1,608)	995
Cash flows from financing activities:
New borrowings	3,057	2,337	2,817
Debt repayments	(2,682)	(2,764)	(3,568)
Premiums paid on early extinguishment of debt	(2)	(555)
Common stock repurchase program	(725)	(600)	(600)
Cash dividends	(726)	(695)	(693)
Exercise of common stock options	63	77	93
Excess tax benefits associated with equity-based transactions	28	15	5
Acquisitions of and distributions paid to noncontrolling interests	(1)	(1)	(125)
Other, net	(47)	31	(1)
Net cash used in financing activities	(1,035)	(2,155)	(2,072)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents		(3)	(5)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(7)	(1,268)	1,249
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	39	1,307	58
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$ 32	$ 39	$ 1,307

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	Total	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-In Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Noncontrolling Interests [Member]
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2013	$ 6,002	$ 6	$ 4,596	$ 6,289	$ 154	$ (5,338)	$ 295
Beginning balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2013		630,282				(165,962)
Consolidated net income	1,338			1,298			40
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax provision (benefit)	(131)				(131)
Cash dividends	(693)			(693)
Equity-based compensation transactions, including dividend equivalents, net of tax provision (benefit)	195		79	(6)		$ 122
Equity-based compensation transactions, including dividend equivalents, net of tax provision (benefit), shares						3,779
Common stock repurchase program	$ (600)		(180)			$ (420)
Common stock repurchase program, shares	(9,569)					(9,569)
Distributions paid to noncontrolling interests	$ (34)						(34)
Acquisitions of noncontrolling interests and divestiture of Wheelabrator business	(188)		90				(278)
Other, net, shares						7
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2014	5,889	$ 6	4,585	6,888	23	$ (5,636)	23
Ending balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2014		630,282				(171,745)
Consolidated net income	752			753			(1)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax provision (benefit)	(150)				(150)
Cash dividends	(695)			(695)
Equity-based compensation transactions, including dividend equivalents, net of tax provision (benefit)	171		62	(7)		$ 116
Equity-based compensation transactions, including dividend equivalents, net of tax provision (benefit), shares						3,457
Common stock repurchase program	$ (600)		180			$ (780)
Common stock repurchase program, shares	(14,823)					(14,823)
Other, net, shares						6
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 5,367	$ 6	4,827	6,939	(127)	$ (6,300)	22
Ending balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2015		630,282				(183,105)
Consolidated net income	1,180			1,182			(2)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax provision (benefit)	47				47
Cash dividends	(726)			(726)
Equity-based compensation transactions, including dividend equivalents, net of tax provision (benefit)	186		69	(7)		$ 124
Equity-based compensation transactions, including dividend equivalents, net of tax provision (benefit), shares						3,556
Common stock repurchase program	$ (725)		(45)			$ (680)
Common stock repurchase program, shares	(11,241)					(11,241)
Other, net	$ (9)		(1)			$ (11)	3
Other, net, shares						(177)
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2016	$ 5,320	$ 6	$ 4,850	$ 7,388	$ (80)	$ (6,867)	$ 23
Ending balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2016		630,282				(190,967)

Business	12 Months Ended
Business	Dec. 31, 2016
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Business	1. Business The financial statements presented in this report represent the consolidation of Waste Management, Inc., a Delaware corporation; its wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries; and certain variable interest entities for which Waste Management, Inc. or its subsidiaries are the primary beneficiaries as described in Note 20. Waste Management Inc. is a holding company and all operations are conducted by its subsidiaries. When the terms “the Company,” “we,” “us” or “our” are used in this document, those terms refer to Waste Management, Inc., its consolidated subsidiaries and consolidated variable interest entities. When we use the term “WM,” we are referring only to Waste Management, Inc., the parent holding company. We are North America’s leading provider of comprehensive waste management environmental services. We partner with our residential, commercial, industrial and municipal customers and the communities we serve to manage and reduce waste at each stage from collection to disposal, while recovering valuable resources and creating clean, renewable energy. Our “Solid Waste” business is operated and managed locally by our subsidiaries that focus on distinct geographic areas and provides collection, transfer, disposal, and recycling and resource recovery services. Through our subsidiaries, we are also a leading developer, operator and owner of landfill gas-to-energy facilities in the United States. We evaluate, oversee and manage the financial performance of our Solid Waste business subsidiaries through our 17 Areas. We also provide additional services that are not managed through our Solid Waste business, which are presented in this report as “Other.” Additional information related to our segments is included in Note 21. In December 2014, we sold our Wheelabrator business, which provides waste-to-energy services and manages waste-to-energy facilities and independent power production plants. Refer to Note 19 for additional information related to our divestitures.

Adoption of New Accounting Standards and Reclassifications	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract]
Adoption of New Accounting Standards and Reclassifications	2. Adoption of New Accounting Standards and Reclassifications *Adoption of New Accounting Standards* Debt Issuance Costs — In April 2015, and as subsequently amended, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued amended authoritative guidance associated with debt issuance costs which were previously presented as assets related to recognized debt liabilities. The amended guidance requires that debt issuance costs, other than those costs related to line of credit arrangements, be presented on the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the related debt liability, which is similar to the presentation for debt discounts and premiums. This guidance was effective for the Company on January 1, 2016. The Company’s adoption of this guidance was applied retrospectively and resulted in a reclassification of $52 million of such costs in our Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2015. Consolidation — In February 2015, the FASB issued amended authoritative guidance associated with consolidation. The amended guidance makes changes to existing consolidation requirements associated with the analysis a reporting entity must perform to determine whether it should consolidate certain types of legal entities, including limited partnerships and variable interest entities. The guidance was effective for the Company on January 1, 2016. The Company’s adoption of this guidance did not impact our consolidated financial statements. *Reclassifications* When necessary, reclassifications have been made to our prior period financial information in order to conform to the current year presentation.

- Definition

The entire disclosure of changes in accounting principles, including adoption of new accounting pronouncements, that describes the new methods, amount and effects on financial statement line items.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Change in Accounting Principle
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6507316

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Direct Effects of a Change in Accounting Principle
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=66092750

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 250
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=64853466&loc=d3e22583-107794

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Indirect Effects of a Change in Accounting Principle
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6515603

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 250
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=64853466&loc=d3e22580-107794

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 270
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.10-01.(b)(6))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=27015980&loc=d3e46468-122699

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Accounting Change
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6503790

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 250
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=64853466&loc=d3e22499-107794

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Retrospective Application
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6523989

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 270
-SubTopic 10
-Section 45
-Paragraph 13
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=68064558&loc=d3e765-108305

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 270
-SubTopic 10
-Section 45
-Paragraph 12
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=68064558&loc=d3e725-108305

+ Details

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

3. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation

The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of WM, its wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries and certain variable interest entities for which we have determined that we are the primary beneficiary. All material intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. Investments in unconsolidated entities are accounted for under either the equity method or cost method of accounting, as appropriate.

Estimates and Assumptions

In preparing our financial statements, we make numerous estimates and assumptions that affect the accounting for and recognition and disclosure of assets, liabilities, equity, revenues and expenses. We must make these estimates and assumptions because certain information that we use is dependent on future events, cannot be calculated with precision from available data or simply cannot be calculated. In some cases, these estimates are difficult to determine, and we must exercise significant judgment. In preparing our financial statements, the most difficult, subjective and complex estimates and the assumptions that present the greatest amount of uncertainty relate to our accounting for landfills, environmental remediation liabilities, long-lived asset impairments, deferred income taxes and reserves associated with our insured and self-insured claims. Each of these items is discussed in additional detail below. Actual results could differ materially from the estimates and assumptions that we use in the preparation of our financial statements.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash in excess of current operating requirements is invested in short-term interest-bearing instruments with maturities of three months or less at the date of purchase and is stated at cost, which approximates market value.

Concentrations of Credit Risk

Financial instruments that potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, investments held within our trust funds and escrow accounts, and accounts receivable. We make efforts to control our exposure to credit risk associated with these instruments by (i) placing our assets and other financial interests with a diverse group of credit-worthy financial institutions; (ii) holding high-quality financial instruments while limiting investments in any one instrument and (iii) maintaining strict policies over credit extension that include credit evaluations, credit limits and monitoring procedures, although generally we do not have collateral requirements for credit extensions. We also control our exposure associated with trade receivables by discontinuing service, to the extent allowable, to non-paying customers. However, our overall credit risk associated with trade receivables is limited due to the large number and diversity of customers we serve. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, no single customer represented greater than 5% of total accounts receivable.

Accounts and Other Receivables

Our receivables, which are recorded when billed, when services are performed or when cash is advanced, are claims against third parties that will generally be settled in cash. The carrying value of our receivables, net of the allowance for doubtful accounts, represents the estimated net realizable value. We estimate our allowance for doubtful accounts based on historical collection trends; type of customer, such as municipal or commercial; the age of outstanding receivables; and existing economic conditions. If events or changes in circumstances indicate that specific receivable balances may be impaired, further consideration is given to the collectability of those balances and the allowance is adjusted accordingly. Past-due receivable balances are written off when our internal collection efforts have been unsuccessful. Also, we recognize interest income on long-term interest-bearing notes receivable as the interest accrues under the terms of the notes. We no longer accrue interest once the notes are deemed uncollectible.

Other receivables, at December 31, 2016 and 2015, include receivables related to income tax payments in excess of our current provision for income taxes of $352 million and $439 million, respectively.

Parts and Supplies

Parts and supplies consist primarily of spare parts, fuel, tires, lubricants and processed recycling materials. Our parts and supplies are stated at the lower of cost, using the average cost method, or market.

Landfill Accounting

Cost Basis of Landfill Assets — We capitalize various costs that we incur to make a landfill ready to accept waste. These costs generally include expenditures for land (including the landfill footprint and required landfill buffer property); permitting; excavation; liner material and installation; landfill leachate collection systems; landfill gas collection systems; environmental monitoring equipment for groundwater and landfill gas; and directly related engineering, capitalized interest, on-site road construction and other capital infrastructure costs. The cost basis of our landfill assets also includes asset retirement costs, which represent estimates of future costs associated with landfill final capping, closure and post-closure activities. These costs are discussed below.

Final Capping, Closure and Post-Closure Costs — Following is a description of our asset retirement activities and our related accounting:

•

Final Capping — Involves the installation of flexible membrane liners and geosynthetic clay liners, drainage and compacted soil layers and topsoil over areas of a landfill where total airspace capacity has been consumed. Final capping asset retirement obligations are recorded on a units-of-consumption basis as airspace is consumed related to the specific final capping event with a corresponding increase in the landfill asset. Each final capping event is accounted for as a discrete obligation and recorded as an asset and a liability based on estimates of the discounted cash flows and capacity associated with each final capping event.

•

Closure — Includes the construction of the final portion of methane gas collection systems (when required), demobilization and routine maintenance costs. These are costs incurred after the site ceases to accept waste, but before the landfill is certified as closed by the applicable state regulatory agency. These costs are recorded as an asset retirement obligation as airspace is consumed over the life of the landfill with a corresponding increase in the landfill asset. Closure obligations are recorded over the life of the landfill based on estimates of the discounted cash flows associated with performing closure activities.

•

Post-Closure — Involves the maintenance and monitoring of a landfill site that has been certified closed by the applicable regulatory agency. Generally, we are required to maintain and monitor landfill sites for a 30-year period. These maintenance and monitoring costs are recorded as an asset retirement obligation as airspace is consumed over the life of the landfill with a corresponding increase in the landfill asset. Post-closure obligations are recorded over the life of the landfill based on estimates of the discounted cash flows associated with performing post-closure activities.

We develop our estimates of these obligations using input from our operations personnel, engineers and accountants. Our estimates are based on our interpretation of current requirements and proposed regulatory changes and are intended to approximate fair value. Absent quoted market prices, the estimate of fair value is based on the best available information, including the results of present value techniques. In many cases, we contract with third parties to fulfill our obligations for final capping, closure and post-closure. We use historical experience, professional engineering judgment and quoted and actual prices paid for similar work to determine the fair value of these obligations. We are required to recognize these obligations at market prices whether we plan to contract with third parties or perform the work ourselves. In those instances where we perform the work with internal resources, the incremental profit margin realized is recognized as a component of operating income when the work is completed.

Once we have determined the final capping, closure and post-closure costs, we inflate those costs to the expected time of payment and discount those expected future costs back to present value. During the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, we inflated these costs in current dollars until the expected time of payment using an inflation rate of 2.5%. We discounted these costs to present value using the credit-adjusted, risk-free rate effective at the time an obligation is incurred, consistent with the expected cash flow approach. Any changes in expectations that result in an upward revision to the estimated cash flows are treated as a new liability and discounted at the current rate while downward revisions are discounted at the historical weighted average rate of the recorded obligation. As a result, the credit-adjusted, risk-free discount rate used to calculate the present value of an obligation is specific to each individual asset retirement obligation. The weighted average rate applicable to our long-term asset retirement obligations at December 31, 2016 is approximately 6.0%. We expect to apply a credit-adjusted, risk-free discount rate of 4.0% to liabilities incurred in the first quarter of 2017.

We record the estimated fair value of final capping, closure and post-closure liabilities for our landfills based on the capacity consumed through the current period. The fair value of final capping obligations is developed based on our estimates of the airspace consumed to date for each final capping event and the expected timing of each final capping event. The fair value of closure and post-closure obligations is developed based on our estimates of the airspace consumed to date for the entire landfill and the expected timing of each closure and post-closure activity. Because these obligations are measured at estimated fair value using present value techniques, changes in the estimated cost or timing of future final capping, closure and post-closure activities could result in a material change in these liabilities, related assets and results of operations. We assess the appropriateness of the estimates used to develop our recorded balances annually, or more often if significant facts change.

Changes in inflation rates or the estimated costs, timing or extent of future final capping, closure and post-closure activities typically result in both (i) a current adjustment to the recorded liability and landfill asset and (ii) a change in liability and asset amounts to be recorded prospectively over either the remaining capacity of the related discrete final capping event or the remaining permitted and expansion airspace (as defined below) of the landfill. Any changes related to the capitalized and future cost of the landfill assets are then recognized in accordance with our amortization policy, which would generally result in amortization expense being recognized prospectively over the remaining capacity of the final capping event or the remaining permitted and expansion airspace of the landfill, as appropriate. Changes in such estimates associated with airspace that has been fully utilized result in an adjustment to the recorded liability and landfill assets with an immediate corresponding adjustment to landfill airspace amortization expense.

Interest accretion on final capping, closure and post-closure liabilities is recorded using the effective interest method and is recorded as final capping, closure and post-closure expense, which is included in “Operating” expenses within our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Amortization of Landfill Assets — The amortizable basis of a landfill includes (i) amounts previously expended and capitalized; (ii) capitalized landfill final capping, closure and post-closure costs; (iii) projections of future purchase and development costs required to develop the landfill site to its remaining permitted and expansion capacity and (iv) projected asset retirement costs related to landfill final capping, closure and post-closure activities.

Amortization is recorded on a units-of-consumption basis, applying expense as a rate per ton. The rate per ton is calculated by dividing each component of the amortizable basis of a landfill by the number of tons needed to fill the corresponding asset’s airspace. For landfills that we do not own, but operate through lease or other contractual agreements, the rate per ton is calculated based on expected capacity to be utilized over the lesser of the contractual term of the underlying agreement or the life of the landfill.

We apply the following guidelines in determining a landfill’s remaining permitted and expansion airspace:

•

Remaining Permitted Airspace — Our engineers, in consultation with third-party engineering consultants and surveyors, are responsible for determining remaining permitted airspace at our landfills. The remaining permitted airspace is determined by an annual survey, which is used to compare the existing landfill topography to the expected final landfill topography.

•

Expansion Airspace — We also include currently unpermitted expansion airspace in our estimate of remaining permitted and expansion airspace in certain circumstances. First, to include airspace associated with an expansion effort, we must generally expect the initial expansion permit application to be submitted within one year and the final expansion permit to be received within five years. Second, we must believe that obtaining the expansion permit is likely, considering the following criteria:

•

Personnel are actively working on the expansion of an existing landfill, including efforts to obtain land use and local, state or provincial approvals;

•

We have a legal right to use or obtain land to be included in the expansion plan;

•

There are no significant known technical, legal, community, business, or political restrictions or similar issues that could negatively affect the success of such expansion; and

•

Financial analysis has been completed based on conceptual design, and the results demonstrate that the expansion meets Company criteria for investment.

For unpermitted airspace to be initially included in our estimate of remaining permitted and expansion airspace, the expansion effort must meet all of the criteria listed above. These criteria are evaluated by our field-based engineers, accountants, managers and others to identify potential obstacles to obtaining the permits. Once the unpermitted airspace is included, our policy provides that airspace may continue to be included in remaining permitted and expansion airspace even if certain of these criteria are no longer met as long as we continue to believe we will ultimately obtain the permit, based on the facts and circumstances of a specific landfill. In these circumstances, continued inclusion must be approved through a landfill-specific review process that includes approval by our Chief Financial Officer and a review by the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors on a quarterly basis. Of the 16 landfill sites with expansions included at December 31, 2016, three landfills required the Chief Financial Officer to approve the inclusion of the unpermitted airspace because the permit application process did not meet the one- or five-year requirements.

When we include the expansion airspace in our calculations of remaining permitted and expansion airspace, we also include the projected costs for development, as well as the projected asset retirement costs related to final capping, closure and post-closure of the expansion in the amortization basis of the landfill.

Once the remaining permitted and expansion airspace is determined in cubic yards, an airspace utilization factor (“AUF”) is established to calculate the remaining permitted and expansion capacity in tons. The AUF is established using the measured density obtained from previous annual surveys and is then adjusted to account for future settlement. The amount of settlement that is forecasted will take into account several site-specific factors including current and projected mix of waste type, initial and projected waste density, estimated number of years of life remaining, depth of underlying waste, anticipated access to moisture through precipitation or recirculation of landfill leachate and operating practices. In addition, the initial selection of the AUF is subject to a subsequent multi-level review by our engineering group, and the AUF used is reviewed on a periodic basis and revised as necessary. Our historical experience generally indicates that the impact of settlement at a landfill is greater later in the life of the landfill when the waste placed at the landfill approaches its highest point under the permit requirements.

After determining the costs and remaining permitted and expansion capacity at each of our landfills, we determine the per ton rates that will be expensed as waste is received and deposited at the landfill by dividing the costs by the corresponding number of tons. We calculate per ton amortization rates for each landfill for assets associated with each final capping event, for assets related to closure and post-closure activities and for all other costs capitalized or to be capitalized in the future. These rates per ton are updated annually, or more often, as significant facts change.

It is possible that actual results, including the amount of costs incurred, the timing of final capping, closure and post-closure activities, our airspace utilization or the success of our expansion efforts could ultimately turn out to be significantly different from our estimates and assumptions. To the extent that such estimates, or related assumptions, prove to be significantly different than actual results, lower profitability may be experienced due to higher amortization rates or higher expenses; or higher profitability may result if the opposite occurs. Most significantly, if it is determined that expansion capacity should no longer be considered in calculating the recoverability of a landfill asset, we may be required to recognize an asset impairment or incur significantly higher amortization expense. If at any time management makes the decision to abandon the expansion effort, the capitalized costs related to the expansion effort are expensed immediately.

Environmental Remediation Liabilities

We are subject to an array of laws and regulations relating to the protection of the environment. Under current laws and regulations, we may have liabilities for environmental damage caused by operations, or for damage caused by conditions that existed before we acquired a site. These liabilities include potentially responsible party (“PRP”) investigations, settlements, and certain legal and consultant fees, as well as costs directly associated with site investigation and clean up, such as materials, external contractor costs and incremental internal costs directly related to the remedy. We provide for expenses associated with environmental remediation obligations when such amounts are probable and can be reasonably estimated. We routinely review and evaluate sites that require remediation and determine our estimated cost for the likely remedy based on a number of estimates and assumptions.

Where it is probable that a liability has been incurred, we estimate costs required to remediate sites based on site-specific facts and circumstances. We routinely review and evaluate sites that require remediation, considering whether we were an owner, operator, transporter, or generator at the site, the amount and type of waste hauled to the site and the number of years we were associated with the site. Next, we review the same type of information with respect to other named and unnamed PRPs. Estimates of the costs for the likely remedy are then either developed using our internal resources or by third-party environmental engineers or other service providers. Internally developed estimates are based on:

•

Management’s judgment and experience in remediating our own and unrelated parties’ sites;

•

Information available from regulatory agencies as to costs of remediation;

•

The number, financial resources and relative degree of responsibility of other PRPs who may be liable for remediation of a specific site; and

•

The typical allocation of costs among PRPs, unless the actual allocation has been determined.

Estimating our degree of responsibility for remediation is inherently difficult. We recognize and accrue for an estimated remediation liability when we determine that such liability is both probable and reasonably estimable. Determining the method and ultimate cost of remediation requires that a number of assumptions be made. There can sometimes be a range of reasonable estimates of the costs associated with the likely site remediation alternatives identified in the investigation of the extent of environmental impact. In these cases, we use the amount within the range that constitutes our best estimate. If no amount within a range appears to be a better estimate than any other, we use the amount that is the low end of such range. If we used the high ends of such ranges, our aggregate potential liability would be approximately $120 million higher than the $246 million recorded in the Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2016. Our ultimate responsibility may differ materially from current estimates. It is possible that technological, regulatory or enforcement developments, the results of environmental studies, the inability to identify other PRPs, the inability of other PRPs to contribute to the settlements of such liabilities, or other factors could require us to record additional liabilities. Our ongoing review of our remediation liabilities, in light of relevant internal and external facts and circumstances, could result in revisions to our accruals that could cause upward or downward adjustments to income from operations. These adjustments could be material in any given period.

Where we believe that both the amount of a particular environmental remediation liability and the timing of the payments are fixed or reliably determinable, we inflate the cost in current dollars (by 2.5% at December 31, 2016 and 2015) until the expected time of payment and discount the cost to present value using a risk-free discount rate, which is based on the rate for U.S. Treasury bonds with a term approximating the weighted average period until settlement of the underlying obligation. We determine the risk-free discount rate and the inflation rate on an annual basis unless interim changes would significantly impact our results of operations. For remedial liabilities that have been discounted, we include interest accretion, based on the effective interest method, in “Operating” expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. The following table summarizes the impacts of revisions in the risk-free discount rate applied to our environmental remediation liabilities and recovery assets during the reported periods (in millions) and the risk-free discount rate applied as of each reporting date:


	Years Ended December 31,
	2016			2015			2014
Charge (reduction) to operating expenses	$	(2	)	$	(2	)	$	10
Risk-free discount rate applied to environmental remediation liabilities and recovery assets		2.5	%		2.25	%		2.00	%

The portion of our recorded environmental remediation liabilities that were not subject to inflation or discounting, as the amounts and timing of payments are not fixed or reliably determinable, was $90 million and $52 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Had we not inflated and discounted any portion of our environmental remediation liability, the amount recorded would have remained the same at December 31, 2016 and decreased $3 million at December 31, 2015.

Property and Equipment (exclusive of landfills, discussed above)

We record property and equipment at cost. Expenditures for major additions and improvements are capitalized and maintenance activities are expensed as incurred. We depreciate property and equipment over the estimated useful life of the asset using the straight-line method. We assume no salvage value for our depreciable property and equipment. When property and equipment are retired, sold or otherwise disposed of, the cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from our accounts and any resulting gain or loss is included in results of operations as an offset or increase to operating expense for the period.

The estimated useful lives for significant property and equipment categories are as follows (in years):


	Useful Lives
Vehicles — excluding rail haul cars		3 to 10
Vehicles — rail haul cars		10 to 20
Machinery and equipment — including containers		3 to 30
Buildings and improvements		5 to 40
Furniture, fixtures and office equipment		3 to 10

We include capitalized costs associated with developing or obtaining internal-use software within furniture, fixtures and office equipment. These costs include direct external costs of materials and services used in developing or obtaining the software and internal costs for employees directly associated with the software development project.

Leases

We lease property and equipment in the ordinary course of our business. Our most significant lease obligations are for property and equipment specific to our industry, including real property operated as a landfill or transfer station. Our leases have varying terms. Some may include renewal or purchase options, escalation clauses, restrictions, penalties or other obligations that we consider in determining minimum lease payments. The leases are classified as either operating leases or capital leases, as appropriate.

Operating Leases (excluding landfills discussed below) — The majority of our leases are operating leases. This classification generally can be attributed to either (i) relatively low fixed minimum lease payments as a result of real property lease obligations that vary based on the volume of waste we receive or process or (ii) minimum lease terms that are much shorter than the assets’ economic useful lives. Management expects that in the normal course of business our operating leases will be renewed, replaced by other leases, or replaced with fixed asset expenditures. Our rent expense during each of the last three years and our future minimum operating lease payments for each of the next five years for which we are contractually obligated as of December 31, 2016 are disclosed in Note 11.

Capital Leases (excluding landfills discussed below) — Assets under capital leases are capitalized using interest rates determined at the inception of each lease and are amortized over either the useful life of the asset or the lease term, as appropriate, on a straight-line basis. The present value of the related lease payments is recorded as a debt obligation. Our future minimum annual capital lease payments are included in our total future debt obligations as disclosed in Note 7.

Landfill Leases — From an operating perspective, landfills that we lease are similar to landfills we own because generally we will operate the landfill for the life of the operating permit. The most significant portion of our rental obligations for landfill leases is contingent upon operating factors such as disposal volumes and often there are no contractual minimum rental obligations. Contingent rental obligations are expensed as incurred. For landfill capital leases that provide for minimum contractual rental obligations, we record the present value of the minimum obligation as part of the landfill asset, which is amortized on a units-of-consumption basis over the shorter of the lease term or the life of the landfill.

Acquisitions

We generally recognize assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations, including contingent assets and liabilities, based on fair value estimates as of the date of acquisition.

Contingent Consideration — In certain acquisitions, we agree to pay additional amounts to sellers contingent upon achievement by the acquired businesses of certain negotiated goals, such as targeted revenue levels, targeted disposal volumes or the issuance of permits for expanded landfill airspace. We have recognized liabilities for these contingent obligations based on their estimated fair value at the date of acquisition with any differences between the acquisition-date fair value and the ultimate settlement of the obligations being recognized as an adjustment to income from operations.

Acquired Assets and Assumed Liabilities — Assets and liabilities arising from contingencies such as pre-acquisition environmental matters and litigation are recognized at their acquisition-date fair value when their respective fair values can be determined. If the fair values of such contingencies cannot be determined, they are recognized at the acquisition date if the contingencies are probable and an amount can be reasonably estimated.

Acquisition-date fair value estimates are revised as necessary if, and when, additional information regarding these contingencies becomes available to further define and quantify assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Subsequent to finalization of purchase accounting, these revisions are accounted for as adjustments to income from operations. All acquisition-related transaction costs are expensed as incurred.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill is the excess of our purchase cost over the fair value of the net assets of acquired businesses. We do not amortize goodwill, but as discussed in the Long-Lived Asset Impairments section below, we assess our goodwill for impairment at least annually.

Other intangible assets consist primarily of customer and supplier relationships, covenants not-to-compete, licenses, permits (other than landfill permits, as all landfill-related intangible assets are combined with landfill tangible assets and amortized using our landfill amortization policy), and other contracts. Other intangible assets are recorded at fair value on the acquisition date and are generally amortized using either a 150% declining balance approach or a straight-line basis as we determine appropriate. Customer and supplier relationships are typically amortized over a term ranging between 10 and 15 years. Covenants not-to-compete are amortized over the term of the non-compete covenant, which is generally two to five years. Licenses, permits and other contracts are amortized over the definitive terms of the related agreements. If the underlying agreement does not contain definitive terms and the useful life is determined to be indefinite, the asset is not amortized.

Long-Lived Asset Impairments

We assess our long-lived assets for impairment as required under the applicable accounting standards. If necessary, impairments are recorded in the “(Income) expense from divestitures, asset impairments and unusual items” line item in our Consolidated Statement of Operations.

Property and Equipment, including Landfills and Definite-Lived Intangible Assets — We monitor the carrying value of our long-lived assets for potential impairment on an ongoing basis and test the recoverability of such assets generally using significant unobservable (“Level 3”) inputs whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amounts may not be recoverable. These events or changes in circumstances, including management decisions pertaining to such assets, are referred to as impairment indicators. If an impairment indicator occurs, we perform a test of recoverability by comparing the carrying value of the asset or asset group to its undiscounted expected future cash flows. If cash flows cannot be separately and independently identified for a single asset, we will determine whether an impairment has occurred for the group of assets for which we can identify the projected cash flows. If the carrying values are in excess of undiscounted expected future cash flows, we measure any impairment by comparing the fair value of the asset or asset group to its carrying value. Fair value is generally determined by considering (i) internally developed discounted projected cash flow analysis of the asset or asset group; (ii) actual third-party valuations and/or (iii) information available regarding the current market for similar assets. If the fair value of an asset or asset group is determined to be less than the carrying amount of the asset or asset group, an impairment in the amount of the difference is recorded in the period that the impairment indicator occurs. Estimating future cash flows requires significant judgment and projections may vary from the cash flows eventually realized, which could impact our ability to accurately assess whether an asset has been impaired.

The assessment of impairment indicators and the recoverability of our capitalized costs associated with landfills and related expansion projects require significant judgment due to the unique nature of the waste industry, the highly regulated permitting process and the sensitive estimates involved. During the review of a landfill expansion application, a regulator may initially deny the expansion application although the expansion permit is ultimately granted. In addition, management may periodically divert waste from one landfill to another to conserve remaining permitted landfill airspace, or a landfill may be required to cease accepting waste, prior to receipt of the expansion permit. However, such events occur in the ordinary course of business in the waste industry and do not necessarily result in impairment of our landfill assets because, after consideration of all facts, such events may not affect our belief that we will ultimately obtain the expansion permit. As a result, our tests of recoverability, which generally make use of a probability-weighted cash flow estimation approach, may indicate that no impairment loss should be recorded.

Goodwill — At least annually, and more frequently if warranted, we assess the goodwill of our reporting units for impairment using Level 3 inputs.

We assess whether a goodwill impairment exists using both qualitative and quantitative assessments. Our qualitative assessment involves determining whether events or circumstances exist that indicate it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill. If based on this qualitative assessment we determine it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, we will not perform a quantitative assessment.

If the qualitative assessment indicates that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount or if we elect not to perform a qualitative assessment, we perform a quantitative assessment, or two-step impairment test, to determine whether a goodwill impairment exists at a reporting unit. The first step in our quantitative assessment identifies potential impairments by comparing the estimated fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying value, including goodwill. If the carrying value exceeds estimated fair value, there is an indication of potential impairment and the second step is performed to measure the amount of impairment. Fair value is typically estimated using an income approach. However, when appropriate, we may also use a market approach. The income approach is based on the long-term projected future cash flows of the reporting units. We discount the estimated cash flows to present value using a weighted average cost of capital that considers factors such as market assumptions, the timing of the cash flows and the risks inherent in those cash flows. We believe that this approach is appropriate because it provides a fair value estimate based upon the reporting units’ expected long-term performance considering the economic and market conditions that generally affect our business. The market approach estimates fair value by measuring the aggregate market value of publicly-traded companies with similar characteristics to our business as a multiple of their reported earnings. We then apply that multiple to the reporting units’ earnings to estimate their fair values. We believe that this approach may also be appropriate in certain circumstances because it provides a fair value estimate using valuation inputs from entities with operations and economic characteristics comparable to our reporting units.

Fair value is computed using several factors, including projected future operating results, economic projections, anticipated future cash flows, comparable marketplace data and the cost of capital. There are inherent uncertainties related to these factors and to our judgment in applying them in our analysis. However, we believe our methodology for estimating the fair value of our reporting units is reasonable.

Refer to Note 13 for information related to impairments recognized during the reported periods.

Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets Other Than Goodwill — At least annually, and more frequently if warranted, we assess indefinite-lived intangible assets other than goodwill for impairment.

When performing the impairment test for indefinite-lived intangible assets, we generally first conduct a qualitative analysis to determine whether we believe it is more likely than not that an asset has been impaired. If it is more likely than not that an asset has been impaired, we then evaluate for impairment by comparing the estimated fair value of the asset to its carrying value. An impairment charge is recognized if the asset’s estimated fair value is less than its carrying value.

Fair value is typically estimated using an income approach. The income approach is based on the long-term projected future cash flows. We discount the estimated cash flows to present value using a weighted average cost of capital that considers factors such as market assumptions, the timing of the cash flows and the risks inherent in those cash flows. We believe this approach is appropriate because it provides a fair value estimate based upon the expected long-term performance considering the economic and market conditions that generally affect our business.

Restricted Trust and Escrow Accounts

Our restricted trust and escrow accounts consist principally of funds deposited for purposes of settling landfill final capping, closure, post-closure and environmental remediation obligations. At several of our landfills, we provide financial assurance by depositing cash into restricted trust funds or escrow accounts for purposes of settling final capping, closure, post-closure and environmental remediation obligations. Balances maintained in these trust funds and escrow accounts will fluctuate based on (i) changes in statutory requirements; (ii) future deposits made to comply with contractual arrangements; (iii) the ongoing use of funds for qualifying final capping, closure, post-closure and environmental remediation activities; (iv) acquisitions or divestitures of landfills and (v) changes in the fair value of the financial instruments held in the trust fund or escrow accounts. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, we had $105 million of restricted trust and escrow accounts, which are primarily included in “Other assets” in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. See Note 20 for additional discussion related to restricted trust and escrow accounts for final capping, closure, post-closure or environmental remediation obligations.

Investments in Unconsolidated Entities

Investments in unconsolidated entities over which the Company has significant influence are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Investments in entities in which the Company does not have the ability to exert significant influence over the investees’ operating and financing activities are accounted for under the cost method of accounting. The following table summarizes our equity and cost method investments as of December 31 (in millions):


	2016		2015
Equity method investments	$	173	$	186
Cost method investments		147		174

Investments in unconsolidated entities	$	320	$	360

We monitor and assess the carrying value of our investments throughout the year for potential impairment and write them down to their fair value when other-than-temporary declines exist. Fair value is generally based on (i) other third-party investors’ recent transactions in the securities; (ii) other information available regarding the current market for similar assets and/or (iii) a market or income approach, as deemed appropriate. Impairments of equity and cost method investments are recorded in “Equity in net losses of unconsolidated entities” and “Other, net” in the Consolidated Statements of Operations, respectively.

Foreign Currency

We have operations in Canada, as well as certain support functions in India and investments in Hong Kong. Local currencies generally are considered the functional currencies of our operations and investments outside the United States. The assets and liabilities of our foreign operations are translated to U.S. dollars using the exchange rate at the balance sheet date. Revenues and expenses are translated to U.S. dollars using the average exchange rate during the period. The resulting translation difference is reflected as a component of comprehensive income.

Derivative Financial Instruments

From time to time, we will use derivative financial instruments to manage our risk associated with fluctuations in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates. In prior years, we used interest rate swaps to maintain a strategic portion of our long-term debt obligations at variable, market-driven interest rates or in anticipation of planned senior note issuances to effectively lock in a fixed interest rate for those anticipated issuances. Through March 2016, we used foreign currency exchange rate derivatives to hedge our exposure to fluctuations in exchange rates for anticipated intercompany cash transactions between Waste Management Holdings, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary (“WM Holdings”), and its Canadian subsidiaries. Prior to the sale of our Wheelabrator business in December 2014, we used electricity commodity derivatives to mitigate the variability in our revenues and cash flows caused by fluctuations in the market prices for electricity. The financial statement impacts of our derivatives are discussed in Notes 8 and 14.

We obtain valuations of our hedging instruments from third-party pricing models. The estimated fair values of derivatives used to hedge risks fluctuate over time and should be viewed in relation to the underlying hedged transaction and the overall management of our exposure to fluctuations in the underlying risks. The fair value of derivatives is included in other current assets, other long-term assets, current accrued liabilities or other long-term liabilities, as appropriate. Any ineffectiveness present in either fair value or cash flow hedges is recognized immediately in earnings without offset. There was no significant hedge ineffectiveness in 2016, 2015 or 2014.

•

Foreign Currency Derivatives — Our cross-currency swaps had been designated as cash flow hedges for accounting purposes, which resulted in the unrealized changes in the fair value of the derivative instruments being recorded in “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” within the equity section of our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The associated balance in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) was reclassified to earnings as the hedged cash flows affected earnings. In each of the periods presented, these derivatives effectively mitigated the impacts of the hedged transactions, resulting in immaterial impacts to our results of operations for the periods presented.

•

Interest Rate Derivatives — Our previously outstanding interest rate swaps associated with outstanding fixed-rate senior notes had been designated as fair value hedges for accounting purposes. Accordingly, derivative assets were accounted for as an increase in the carrying value of our underlying debt obligations and derivative liabilities were accounted for as a decrease in the carrying value of our underlying debt instruments. These fair value adjustments are deferred and recognized as an adjustment to interest expense over the remaining term of the hedged instruments. Treasury locks and forward-starting swaps executed in prior years were designated as cash flow hedges for accounting purposes. The fair value of these derivative instruments was recorded in “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” within the equity section of our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The associated balance in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) is reclassified to earnings as the hedged cash flows occur.

Insured and Self-Insured Claims

We have retained a significant portion of the risks related to our health and welfare, automobile, general liability and workers’ compensation claims programs. The exposure for unpaid claims and associated expenses, including incurred but not reported losses, generally is estimated with the assistance of external actuaries and by factoring in pending claims and historical trends and data. The gross estimated liability associated with settling unpaid claims is included in “Accrued liabilities” in our Consolidated Balance Sheets if expected to be settled within one year; otherwise, it is included in long-term “Other liabilities.” Estimated insurance recoveries related to recorded liabilities are reflected as current “Other receivables” or long-term “Other assets” in our Consolidated Balance Sheets when we believe that the receipt of such amounts is probable.

Revenue Recognition

Our revenues are generated from the fees we charge for waste collection, transfer, disposal, and recycling and resource recovery services; from the sale of recyclable commodities; from the sale of electricity and landfill gas, which are byproducts of our landfill operations and from the sale of oil and gas and organic lawn and garden products. The fees charged for our services are generally defined in our service agreements and vary based on contract-specific terms such as frequency of service, weight, volume and the general market factors influencing a region’s rates. The fees we charge for our services generally include our environmental fee, fuel surcharge and regulatory recovery fee, which are intended to pass through to customers increased direct and indirect costs incurred. We generally recognize revenue as services are performed or products are delivered. For example, revenue typically is recognized as waste is collected, tons are received at our landfills or transfer stations, or recycling commodities are delivered.

We bill for certain services prior to performance. Such services include, among others, certain residential contracts that are billed on a quarterly basis and equipment rentals. These advance billings are included in deferred revenues and recognized as revenue in the period service is provided.

Capitalized Interest

We capitalize interest on certain projects under development, including landfill expansion projects, certain assets under construction, including operating landfills and landfill gas-to-energy projects and internal-use software. During 2016, 2015 and 2014, total interest costs were $394 million, $407 million and $487 million, respectively, of which $9 million was capitalized in 2016, $16 million was capitalized in 2015 and $16 million was capitalized in 2014. In 2016, 2015 and 2014, interest was capitalized primarily for landfills under construction.

Income Taxes

The Company is subject to income tax in the U.S. and Canada. Current tax obligations associated with our provision for income taxes are reflected in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets as a component of “Accrued liabilities” and the deferred tax obligations are reflected in “Deferred income taxes.”

Deferred income taxes are based on the difference between the financial reporting and tax basis of assets and liabilities. The deferred income tax provision represents the change during the reporting period in the deferred tax assets and liabilities, net of the effect of acquisitions and dispositions. Deferred tax assets include tax loss and credit carry-forwards and are reduced by a valuation allowance if, based on available evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Significant judgment is required in assessing the timing and amounts of deductible and taxable items. We establish reserves for uncertain tax positions when, despite our belief that our tax return positions are fully supportable, we believe that certain positions may be challenged and potentially disallowed. When facts and circumstances change, we adjust these reserves through our provision for income taxes.

Should interest and penalties be assessed by taxing authorities on any underpayment of income tax, such amounts would be accrued and classified as a component of provision for income taxes in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Contingent Liabilities

We estimate the amount of potential exposure we may have with respect to claims, assessments and litigation in accordance with authoritative guidance on accounting for contingencies. We are party to pending or threatened legal proceedings covering a wide range of matters in various jurisdictions. It is difficult to predict the outcome of litigation, as it is subject to many uncertainties. Additionally, it is not always possible for management to make a meaningful estimate of the potential loss or range of loss associated with such contingencies. See Note 11 for discussion of our commitments and contingencies.

Supplemental Cash Flow Information


Cash paid during the years ended December 31 (in millions):	2016		2015		2014
Interest, net of capitalized interest and periodic settlements from interest rate swap agreements	$	375	$	384	$	461
Income taxes		442		419		758

During 2016, 2015 and 2014, we did not have any significant non-cash investing and financing activities. Non-cash investing and financing activities are generally excluded from the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Landfill and Environmental Remediation Liabilities

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Text Block [Abstract]

Landfill and Environmental Remediation Liabilities

4. Landfill and Environmental Remediation Liabilities

Liabilities for landfill and environmental remediation costs are presented in the table below (in millions):


	December 31, 2016						December 31, 2015
	Landfill		Environmental Remediation		Total		Landfill		Environmental Remediation		Total
Current (in accrued liabilities)	$	119	$	28	$	147	$	112	$	31	$	143
Long-term		1,457		218		1,675		1,406		178		1,584

	$	1,576	$	246	$	1,822	$	1,518	$	209	$	1,727

The changes to landfill and environmental remediation liabilities for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2016 are reflected in the table below (in millions):


	Landfill			Environmental Remediation
December 31, 2014	$	1,443		$	235
Obligations incurred and capitalized		61			—
Obligations settled		(71	)		(30	)
Interest accretion		89			3
Revisions in estimates and interest rate assumptions(a)(b)		(11	)		5
Acquisitions, divestitures and other adjustments(d)		7			(4	)

December 31, 2015	$	1,518		$	209
Obligations incurred and capitalized		59			—
Obligations settled		(91	)		(24	)
Interest accretion		91			3
Revisions in estimates and interest rate assumptions(a)(b)(c)		(1	)		58

December 31, 2016	$	1,576		$	246

(a)	The amount reported for our landfill liabilities includes a decrease of approximately $18 million for 2015 and $11 million for 2016, related to our year-end annual review of landfill final capping, closure and post-closure obligations.

(b)

The amount reported in 2015 for our environmental remediation liabilities includes the impact of an increase in the risk-free discount rate used to measure our liabilities from 2.0% at December 31, 2014 to 2.25% at December 31, 2015, resulting in a decrease of $3 million to our environmental remediation liabilities and a corresponding decrease to “Operating” expenses.

The amount reported in 2016 for environmental remediation liabilities includes the impact of an increase in the risk-free discount rate used to measure our liabilities from 2.25% at December 31, 2015 to 2.5% at December 31, 2016, resulting in a decrease of $2 million to our environmental remediation liabilities and a corresponding decrease to “Operating” expenses.

(c)	The amount reported in 2016 for our landfill liabilities includes an increase of $13 million due to acceleration of the expected timing of closure and post-closure activities for a landfill. See Note 13 for further discussion of the impairment charge related to this landfill.

The amount reported in 2016 for our environmental remediation liabilities includes the impact of an increase of $44 million in our cost estimates associated with a subsidiary’s closed site in Harris County, Texas. See Notes 11 and 13 for further discussion of this environmental remediation adjustment.

(d)	The amount reported for our 2015 landfill liabilities include an increase of approximately $18 million as a result of our acquisition of Deffenbaugh Disposal, Inc. (“Deffenbaugh”).

Our recorded liabilities as of December 31, 2016 include the impacts of inflating certain of these costs based on our expectations of the timing of cash settlement and of discounting certain of these costs to present value. Anticipated payments of currently identified environmental remediation liabilities, as measured in current dollars, are $28 million in 2017, $21 million in 2018, $29 million in 2019, $63 million in 2020, $17 million in 2021 and $88 million thereafter.

At several of our landfills, we provide financial assurance by depositing cash into restricted trust funds or escrow accounts for purposes of settling final capping, closure, post-closure and environmental remediation obligations. Generally, these trust funds are established to comply with statutory requirements and operating agreements. See Notes 18 and 20 for additional information related to these trusts.

Property and Equipment

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]

Property and Equipment

5. Property and Equipment

Property and equipment at December 31 consisted of the following (in millions):


	2016			2015
Land	$	608		$	592
Landfills		14,276			13,772
Vehicles		4,433			4,257
Machinery and equipment		2,639			2,499
Containers		2,469			2,426
Buildings and improvements		2,667			2,546
Furniture, fixtures and office equipment		1,010			993

		28,102			27,085
Less accumulated depreciation of tangible property and equipment		(8,812	)		(8,495	)
Less accumulated amortization of landfill airspace		(8,340	)		(7,925	)

	$	10,950		$	10,665

Depreciation and amortization expense, including amortization expense for assets recorded as capital leases, was comprised of the following for the years ended December 31 (in millions):


	2016		2015		2014
Depreciation of tangible property and equipment	$	773	$	760	$	834
Amortization of landfill airspace		428		409		380

Depreciation and amortization expense	$	1,201	$	1,169	$	1,214

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

6. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill was $6,215 million as of December 31, 2016 compared with $5,984 million as of December 31, 2015. The $231 million increase in goodwill during 2016 is primarily related to the acquisition of certain operations and business assets of Southern Waste Systems/Sun Recycling (“SWS”) in Southern Florida. See Notes 19 and 21 for additional information.

As discussed more fully in Note 3, we perform our annual impairment test of goodwill balances for our reporting units using a measurement date of October 1. We will also perform interim tests if an impairment indicator exists. See Note 13 for discussion of goodwill impairments.

Our other intangible assets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 were comprised of the following (in millions):


	Customer and Supplier Relationships			Covenants Not-to- Compete			Licenses, Permits and Other			Total
December 31, 2016:
Intangible assets	$	835		$	59		$	123		$	1,017
Less accumulated amortization		(342	)		(31	)		(53	)		(426	)

	$	493		$	28		$	70		$	591

December 31, 2015:
Intangible assets	$	658		$	51		$	119		$	828
Less accumulated amortization		(270	)		(35	)		(46	)		(351	)

	$	388		$	16		$	73		$	477

Amortization expense for other intangible assets was $100 million for 2016, $76 million for 2015 and $78 million for 2014. At December 31, 2016, we had $18 million of licenses, permits and other intangible assets that are not subject to amortization, because they do not have stated expirations or have routine, administrative renewal processes. Additional information related to other intangible assets acquired through business combinations is included in Note 19. As of December 31, 2016, we expect annual amortization expense related to other intangible assets to be $97 million in 2017; $87 million in 2018; $77 million in 2019; $69 million in 2020 and $58 million in 2021.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for the aggregate amount of goodwill and a description of intangible assets, which may include (a) for amortizable intangible assets (also referred to as finite-lived intangible assets), the carrying amount, the amount of any significant residual value, and the weighted-average amortization period, (b) for intangible assets not subject to amortization (also referred to as indefinite-lived intangible assets), the carrying amount, and (c) the amount of research and development assets acquired and written off in the period, including the line item in the income statement in which the amounts written off are aggregated, if not readily apparent from the income statement. Also discloses (a) for amortizable intangibles assets in total and by major class, the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization, the total amortization expense for the period, and the estimated aggregate amortization expense for each of the five succeeding fiscal years, (b) for intangible assets not subject to amortization the carrying amount in total and by major class, and (c) for goodwill, in total and for each reportable segment, the changes in the carrying amount of goodwill during the period (including the aggregate amount of goodwill acquired, the aggregate amount of impairment losses recognized, and the amount of goodwill included in the gain (loss) on disposal of a reporting unit). If any part of goodwill has not been allocated to a reportable segment, discloses the unallocated amount and the reasons for not allocating. For each impairment loss recognized related to an intangible asset (excluding goodwill), discloses: (a) a description of the impaired intangible asset and the facts and circumstances leading to the impairment, (b) the amount of the impairment loss and the method for determining fair value, (c) the caption in the income statement or the statement of activities in which the impairment loss is aggregated, and (d) the segment in which the impaired intangible asset is reported. For each goodwill impairment loss recognized, discloses: (a) a description of the facts and circumstances leading to the impairment, (b) the amount of the impairment loss and the method of determining the fair value of the associated reporting unit, and (c) if a recognized impairment loss is an estimate not finalized and the reasons why the estimate is not final. May also disclose the nature and amount of any significant adjustments made to a previous estimate of an impairment loss.

+ References + Details

Debt

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Debt

7. Debt

The following table summarizes the major components of debt at each balance sheet date (in millions) and provides the maturities and interest rate ranges of each major category as of December 31, 2016:


	2016		2015
$2.25 billion revolving credit facility, maturing July 2020 (weighted average interest rate of 1.9% at December 31, 2016)	$	426	$	20
Commercial paper program		—		—
Other letter of credit facilities, maturing through December 2018		—		—
Canadian term loan and revolving credit facility, maturing March 2019 (weighted average effective interest rate of 2.1% at December 31, 2016 and 2.2% at December 31, 2015)		239		84
Senior notes maturing through 2045, interest rates ranging from 2.40% to 7.75% (weighted average interest rate of 4.6% at December 31, 2016 and 4.7% at December 31, 2015)		6,033		6,050
Tax-exempt bonds maturing through 2045, fixed and variable interest rates ranging from 0.7% to 5.7% (weighted average interest rate of 1.8% at December 31, 2016 and 1.9% at December 31, 2015)		2,304		2,447
Capital leases and other, maturing through 2055, interest rates up to 12%		308		328

	$	9,310	$	8,929
Current portion of long-term debt		417		253

	$	8,893	$	8,676

Debt Classification

As of December 31, 2016, the current portion of our long-term debt balance of $417 million includes (i) $230 million of short-term borrowings under our long-term U.S. revolving credit facility (“$2.25 billion revolving credit facility”) and (ii) $187 million of other debt with scheduled maturities within the next 12 months, including $126 million of tax-exempt bonds.

As of December 31, 2016, we have classified $196 million of borrowings outstanding under our $2.25 billion revolving credit facility as long-term because we intend and have the ability to refinance or maintain these borrowings on a long-term basis. We generally use available cash to repay borrowings outstanding under our $2.25 billion revolving credit facility and any remaining balances are maintained by extending the maturities of the borrowings. Our current projections indicate that we will maintain $196 million of the $426 million of borrowings outstanding for the next 12 months. The remaining $230 million of borrowings outstanding under our $2.25 billion revolving credit facility is classified as current in our Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2016.

As of December 31, 2016, we also have $473 million of tax-exempt bonds with term interest rate periods that expire within the next 12 months and an additional $491 million of variable-rate tax-exempt bonds that are supported by letters of credit. The interest rates on our variable-rate tax-exempt bonds are generally reset on either a daily or weekly basis through a remarketing process. All recent tax-exempt bond remarketings have successfully placed Company bonds with investors at market-driven rates and we currently expect future remarketings to be successful. However, if the remarketing agent is unable to remarket our bonds, the remarketing agent can put the bonds to us. In the event of a failed remarketing, we have the intent and ability to use availability under our $2.25 billion revolving credit facility to fund the debt obligations until they can be remarketed successfully. Accordingly, we classified these borrowings as long-term in our Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2016.

Access to and Utilization of Credit Facilities

$2.25 Billion Revolving Credit Facility — Our $2.25 billion revolving credit facility maturing in July 2020 provides us with credit capacity to be used for either cash borrowings or to support letters of credit. The rates we pay for outstanding loans are generally based on LIBOR plus a spread depending on the Company’s debt rating assigned by Moody’s Investors Service and Standard and Poor’s. The spread above LIBOR ranges from 0.805% to 1.3%. At December 31, 2016, we had $426 million of outstanding borrowings and $789 million of letters of credit issued and supported by this facility, leaving unused and available credit capacity of $1,035 million.

Commercial Paper Program — In August 2016, we entered into a $1.5 billion commercial paper program that enables us to borrow funds for up to 397 days at competitive interest rates. The commercial paper program is fully supported by our $2.25 billion revolving credit facility. In order to borrow in the commercial paper market, the Company must obtain short-term credit ratings. We are in the process of working with the credit rating agencies to obtain these ratings and, as a result, we did not have any commercial paper borrowings as of or during the year ended December 31, 2016.

Canadian Term Loan and Revolving Credit Facility — In March 2016, we amended and restated our Canadian credit agreement (which includes a term loan and revolving credit facility), to decrease the revolving credit capacity, increase the amount of term credit, and extend the term through March 2019. Waste Management of Canada Corporation and WM Quebec Inc., wholly-owned subsidiaries of WM, are borrowers under this agreement. The amended and restated credit agreement provides the Company (i) C$50 million of revolving credit capacity, which can be used for borrowings or letters of credit, and (ii) C$460 million of non-revolving term credit that is prepayable without penalty. Prior to closing, there was a balance of C$90 million remaining on the prior C$500 million term loan. Upon closing, the term loan was fully drawn to repay the indebtedness owed under the prior Canadian credit agreement and to repay C$370 million of intercompany debt. WM and WM Holdings guarantee all subsidiary obligations outstanding under this credit agreement. The rates we pay for outstanding loans under the Canadian credit agreement are generally based on the applicable LIBOR plus a spread depending on the Company’s debt rating assigned by Moody’s Investors Service and Standard and Poor’s. The spread above LIBOR ranges from 0.875% to 1.5%. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, we had no borrowings or letters of credit outstanding under the Canadian revolving credit agreement.

Other Letter of Credit Facilities — As of December 31, 2016, we had utilized $492 million of other letter of credit facilities, which are both committed and uncommitted, with terms extending through December 2018.

Debt Borrowings and Repayments

$2.25 Billion Revolving Credit Facility — During the year ended December 31, 2016, we had net borrowings of $406 million under our $2.25 billion revolving credit facility. These net borrowings included funds to support our acquisition of certain operations and business assets of SWS. Refer to Note 19 for additional information related to this acquisition.

Canadian Term Loan — During the three months ended March 31, 2016, we repaid C$27 million, or $20 million, of advances under our prior Canadian term loan reducing the balance to C$90 million at the time of the amendment and restatement of the credit agreement. Upon closing of the new Canadian credit agreement, we borrowed C$460 million, or $347 million, to repay the prior term loan and to allow our Canadian subsidiaries to repay C$370 million, or $280 million, of intercompany debt. From April 1, 2016 through December 31, 2016, we repaid C$139 million, or $105 million, of advances under our Canadian term loan.

Senior Notes — In May 2016, we issued $500 million of 2.4% senior notes that mature in May 2023. We utilized the net proceeds of $496 million to repay $500 million of 2.6% senior notes that matured in September 2016.

Tax-Exempt Bonds — During the year ended December 31, 2016, we repaid $146 million of our tax-exempt bonds with available cash. In May 2016, we elected to refund and reissue $143 million of tax-exempt bonds in order to reduce the interest costs associated with this debt. The “Loss on early extinguishment of debt” reflected in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2016 includes $3 million of charges related to these refundings.

Scheduled Debt Payments — Principal payments of our debt and capital leases for the next five years, based on scheduled maturities are as follows: $610 million in 2017, $783 million in 2018, $432 million in 2019, $746 million in 2020, and $540 million in 2021. Our recorded debt and capital lease obligations include non-cash adjustments associated with discounts, premiums, deferred loan costs and fair value adjustments for interest rate hedging activities, which have been excluded from these amounts because they will not result in cash payments.

Senior Notes Refinancing

During 2015, we recognized a pre-tax loss of $552 million associated with the early extinguishment of almost $2 billion of our high-coupon senior notes through make-whole redemption and cash tender offers. We replaced substantially all of the debt extinguished with new senior notes at significantly lower coupon interest rates and extended the weighted average duration of these debt obligations.

Secured Debt

Our debt balances are generally unsecured, except for capital leases and the note payable associated with our investment in low-income housing properties.

Debt Covenants

Our $2.25 billion revolving credit facility, our Canadian credit agreement and certain other financing agreements contain financial covenants. The following table summarizes the most restrictive requirements of these financial covenants (all terms used to measure these ratios are defined by the facilities):


Interest coverage ratio		> 2.75 to 1
Total debt to EBITDA		< 3.50 to 1

Our credit facilities and senior notes also contain certain restrictions intended to monitor our level of subsidiary indebtedness, types of investments and net worth. We monitor our compliance with these restrictions, but do not believe that they significantly impact our ability to enter into investing or financing arrangements typical for our business. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, we were in compliance with the covenants and restrictions under all of our debt agreements that may have a material effect on our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities	12 Months Ended
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities	Dec. 31, 2016
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities	8. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities The Company had no derivatives outstanding at December 31, 2016. The following discussion relates to our terminated derivatives: Foreign Currency Derivatives — As of December 31, 2015, we had cross-currency swaps outstanding for all of the anticipated cash flows associated with C$370 million of intercompany debt between WM Holdings and its wholly-owned Canadian subsidiaries. As discussed in Note 7, in March 2016, our Canadian subsidiaries repaid the intercompany debt with proceeds from our Canadian term loan. Concurrent with the repayment of the intercompany debt, we terminated the cross-currency swaps and received $67 million in cash. The cash received from our termination of the swaps was classified as a change in “Other current assets” and “Other assets” within “Net cash provided by operating activities” in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. In addition, we recognized $8 million of expense associated with the termination of these swaps, which was included in “Other, net” in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. These cross-currency swaps had been designated as cash flow hedges and as of December 31, 2015, the carrying value of the hedge position was reflected in our Consolidated Balance Sheet as $15 million of current other assets and $63 million of long-term other assets. Through March 2016, when the intercompany loans and the related cross-currency swaps were terminated, gains or losses resulting from the remeasurement of the underlying non-functional currency intercompany loans were recognized in current earnings in the same financial statement line item as the offsetting gains or losses on the related cross-currency swaps. There was no significant ineffectiveness associated with our cash flow hedges during the reported periods. Forward-Starting Interest Rate Swaps — At December 31, 2016 and 2015, our “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” included $37 million and $43 million, respectively, of after-tax deferred losses related to terminated cash flow swaps, which are being amortized as an increase to interest expense using the effective interest method over the ten-year terms of the related senior notes, which extend through 2024. As of December 31, 2016, $10 million of the pre-tax deferred losses for these previously terminated swaps is scheduled to be reclassified as an increase to interest expense over the next 12 months. During the first quarter of 2014, forward-starting interest rate swaps with a notional value of $175 million matured and we paid cash of $36 million to settle the associated liabilities. The loss associated with the matured forward-starting swaps was deferred and included as a component of the “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” balance discussed above. Refer to Note 14 for information regarding the impacts of our cash flow derivatives on our comprehensive income and results of operations.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for derivative instruments and hedging activities including, but not limited to, risk management strategies, non-hedging derivative instruments, assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses, and methodologies and assumptions used in determining the amounts.

+ References

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+ Details

Income Taxes

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Income Taxes

9. Income Taxes

Provision for Income Taxes

Our provision for income taxes consisted of the following for the years ended December 31 (in millions):


	2016			2015			2014
Current:
Federal	$	443		$	192		$	414
State		88			50			61
Foreign		38			36			56

		569			278			531

Deferred:
Federal		57			43			(89	)
State		17			(17	)		(33	)
Foreign		(1	)		4			4

		73			30			(118	)

Provision for income taxes	$	642		$	308		$	413

The U.S. federal statutory income tax rate is reconciled to the effective income tax rate for the years ended December 31 as follows:


	2016			2015			2014
Income tax expense at U.S. federal statutory rate		35.00	%		35.00	%		35.00	%
Federal tax credits		(3.08	)		(5.49	)		(3.21	)
Taxing authority audit settlements and other tax adjustments		(0.53	)		(2.67	)		(1.59	)
State and local income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit		3.31			3.20			1.77
Tax impact of impairments		0.80			0.23			0.46
Tax impact of divestitures		0.26			(0.34	)		(7.89	)
Tax rate differential on foreign income		(0.63	)		(0.99	)		(0.46	)
Other		0.10			0.17			(0.47	)

Provision for income taxes		35.23	%		29.11	%		23.61	%

The comparability of our provision for income taxes for the reported periods has been primarily affected by (i) variations in our income before income taxes; (ii) federal tax credits; (iii) tax audit settlements; (iv) the realization of state net operating losses and credits; (v) adjustments to our accruals and related deferred taxes and (vi) the tax implications of impairments and divestitures.

For financial reporting purposes, income before income taxes by source for the years ended December 31 was as follows (in millions):


	2016		2015		2014
Domestic	$	1,681	$	922	$	1,601
Foreign		141		138		150

Income before income taxes	$	1,822	$	1,060	$	1,751

Investments Qualifying for Federal Tax Credits — We have significant financial interests in entities established to invest in and manage low-income housing properties and a refined coal facility. We support the operations of these entities in exchange for a pro-rata share of the tax credits they generate. The low-income housing investments and the coal facility’s refinement processes qualify for federal tax credits that we expect to realize through 2020 under Section 42 and through 2019 under Section 45, respectively, of the Internal Revenue Code.

We account for our investments in these entities using the equity method of accounting, recognizing our share of each entity’s results of operations and other reductions in the value of our investments in “Equity in net losses of unconsolidated entities,” within our Consolidated Statements of Operations. During the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, we recognized $31 million, $30 million and $32 million of net losses and a reduction in our tax provision of $55 million, $57 million and $58 million, respectively, primarily as a result of tax credits realized from these investments. In addition, during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, we recognized interest expense of $3 million, $4 million and $5 million, respectively, associated with our investment in low-income housing properties.

See Note 20 for additional information related to these unconsolidated variable interest entities.

Other Federal Tax Credits — During 2016, 2015 and 2014, we recognized federal tax credits in addition to the tax credits realized from our investments in low-income housing properties and the refined coal facility, resulting in a reduction to our provision for income taxes of $14 million, $15 million and $13 million, respectively.

Tax Audit Settlements — We file income tax returns in the United States and Canada, as well as various state and local jurisdictions. We are currently under audit by the IRS, Canada Revenue Agency and various state and local taxing authorities. Our audits are in various stages of completion.

During 2016, 2015 and 2014, we settled various tax audits. The settlement of these tax audits resulted in a reduction to our provision for income taxes of $11 million, $10 million and $12 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

We participate in the IRS’s Compliance Assurance Process, which means we work with the IRS throughout the year in order to resolve any material issues prior to the filing of our annual tax return. We are currently in the examination phase of IRS audits for the tax years 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017 and expect these audits to be completed within the next nine, 12, 18 and 30 months, respectively. We are also currently undergoing audits by various state and local jurisdictions for tax years that date back to 2009, with the exception of affirmative claims in a limited number of jurisdictions that date back to 2000.

State Net Operating Losses and Credits — During 2016, 2015 and 2014, we recognized state net operating losses and credits resulting in a reduction to our provision for income taxes of $10 million, $17 million and $16 million, respectively.

Adjustments to Accruals and Related Deferred Taxes — Adjustments to our accruals and related deferred taxes due to the filing of our income tax returns and changes in state laws resulted in a reduction of $10 million, $18 million and $24 million to our provision for income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Tax Implications of Impairments — A portion of the impairment charges recognized in 2016, 2015 and 2014 are not deductible for tax purposes. Had the charges been fully deductible, our provision for income taxes would have been reduced by $15 million, $2 million and $8 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. See Note 13 for more information related to our impairment charges.

Tax Implications of Divestitures — During 2014, the Company recorded a net gain of $515 million primarily related to the divestiture of our Wheelabrator business, our Puerto Rico operations and certain landfill and collection operations in our Eastern Canada Area. Had this net gain been fully taxable, our provision for income taxes would have increased by $138 million. During 2015, the Company recorded an additional $10 million net gain primarily related to post-closing adjustments on the Wheelabrator divestiture and had this gain been fully taxable, our provision for income taxes would have increased by $4 million. During 2016, the Company recorded a loss of $9 million related to the divestiture of certain asset and had the associated tax loss been fully deductible, our provision for income taxes would have decreased by $5 million. See Note 19 for more information related to our divestitures.

Unremitted Earnings in Foreign Subsidiaries — At December 31, 2016, remaining unremitted earnings in foreign operations were approximately $950 million, which are considered permanently invested and, therefore, no provision for U.S. income taxes were accrued for these unremitted earnings. Determination of the unrecognized deferred U.S. income tax liability is not practicable due to uncertainties related to the timing and source of any potential distribution of such funds, along with other important factors such as the amount of associated foreign tax credits.

Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities)

The components of net deferred tax assets (liabilities) at December 31 are as follows (in millions):


	2016			2015
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss, capital loss and tax credit carry-forwards	$	285		$	280
Landfill and environmental remediation liabilities		116			120
Miscellaneous and other reserves, net		355			373

Subtotal		756			773
Valuation allowance		(292	)		(273	)
Deferred tax liabilities:
Property and equipment		(728	)		(709	)
Goodwill and other intangibles		(1,218	)		(1,182	)

Net deferred tax liabilities	$	(1,482	)	$	(1,391	)

The valuation allowance increased by $19 million in 2016 primarily due to changes in our capital loss and state net operating loss carry-forwards, as well as the tax impacts of impairments.

At December 31, 2016, we had $25 million of federal net operating loss carry-forwards and $2.0 billion of state net operating loss carry-forwards. The federal and state net operating loss carry-forwards have expiration dates through the year 2036. We also had $453 million of federal capital loss carry-forwards which expire in 2019 and 2021 and $24 million of state tax credit carry-forwards.

We have established valuation allowances for uncertainties in realizing the benefit of certain tax loss and credit carry-forwards and other deferred tax assets. While we expect to realize the deferred tax assets, net of the valuation allowances, changes in estimates of future taxable income or in tax laws may alter this expectation.

Liabilities for Uncertain Tax Positions

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits, including accrued interest is as follows (in millions):


	2016			2015			2014
Balance at January 1	$	71		$	42		$	49
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year		19			18			9
Additions based on tax positions of prior years		4			21			2
Accrued interest		2			2			1
Reductions for tax positions of prior years		(7	)		(1	)		—
Settlements		—			(3	)		(11	)
Lapse of statute of limitations		(7	)		(8	)		(8	)

Balance at December 31	$	82		$	71		$	42

These liabilities are included as a component of long-term “Other liabilities” in our Consolidated Balance Sheets because the Company does not anticipate that settlement of the liabilities will require payment of cash within the next 12 months. As of December 31, 2016, $69 million of net unrecognized tax benefits, if recognized in future periods, would impact our effective tax rate.

We recognize interest expense related to unrecognized tax benefits in our provision for income taxes. During the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, we recognized $2 million, $2 million and $1 million, respectively, of such interest expense as a component of our provisions for income taxes. We had $5 million and $3 million of accrued interest expense in our Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. We did not have any accrued liabilities or expense for penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

We are not able to reasonably estimate when we might make any cash payments required to settle these liabilities, but we do not believe that the ultimate settlement of our obligations will materially affect our liquidity. As of December 31, 2016, we anticipate that approximately $7 million of liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits, including accrued interest, and $3 million of related tax assets may be reversed within the next 12 months. The anticipated reversals primarily relate to miscellaneous state tax items, each of which is individually insignificant. The recognition of the unrecognized tax benefits is expected to result from tax audit settlements or the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations period.

Employee Benefit Plans

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]

Employee Benefit Plans

10. Employee Benefit Plans

Defined Contribution Plans — Waste Management sponsors a 401(k) retirement savings plan that covers employees, except those working subject to collective bargaining agreements that do not provide for coverage under the plan. United States employees who are not subject to such collective bargaining agreements are generally eligible to participate in the plan following a 90-day waiting period after hire and may contribute, effective January 1, 2016, as much as 50% of their eligible annual compensation and 80% of their annual incentive plan bonus, subject to annual contribution limitations established by the IRS. Prior to January 1, 2016, such employees could contribute as much as 25% of their eligible annual compensation, subject to annual contribution limitations established by the IRS. Under the retirement savings plan, for non-union employees, we match 100% of employee contributions on the first 3% of their eligible annual compensation and 50% of employee contributions on the next 3% of their eligible annual compensation, resulting in a maximum match of 4.5% of eligible annual compensation. Both employee and Company contributions are in cash and vest immediately. Certain United States employees who are subject to collective bargaining agreements may participate in the 401(k) retirement savings plan under terms specified in their collective bargaining agreement. Certain employees outside the United States, including those in Canada, participate in defined contribution plans maintained by the Company in compliance with laws of the appropriate jurisdiction. Charges to “Operating” and “Selling, general and administrative” expenses for our defined contribution plans totaled $64 million, $61 million and $63 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Defined Benefit Plans (other than multiemployer defined benefit pension plans discussed below) — WM Holdings sponsors a defined benefit plan for certain employees who are subject to collective bargaining agreements that provide for participation in this plan. Further, certain of our Canadian subsidiaries sponsor defined benefit plans which have previously been frozen to new participants. As of December 31, 2016, the combined benefit obligation of these pension plans was $114 million, and the plans had $103 million of combined plan assets, resulting in an aggregate unfunded benefit obligation for these plans of $11 million. As of December 31, 2015, the combined benefit obligation of these pension plans was $116 million, and the plans had $88 million of combined plan assets, resulting in an aggregate unfunded benefit obligation for these plans of $28 million.

In addition, WM Holdings and certain of its subsidiaries provided post-retirement health care and other benefits to eligible retirees. In conjunction with our acquisition of WM Holdings in July 1998, we limited participation in these plans to participating retirees as of December 31, 1998. The unfunded benefit obligation for these plans was $26 million and $28 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Our accrued benefit liabilities for our defined benefit pension and other post-retirement plans were $37 million and $56 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, and are included as components of “Accrued liabilities” and long-term “Other liabilities” in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Multiemployer Defined Benefit Pension Plans — We are a participating employer in a number of trustee-managed multiemployer defined benefit pension plans (“Multiemployer Pension Plans”) for employees who are covered by collective bargaining agreements. The risks of participating in these Multiemployer Pension Plans are different from single-employer plans in that (i) assets contributed to the Multiemployer Pension Plan by one employer may be used to provide benefits to employees or former employees of other participating employers; (ii) if a participating employer stops contributing to the plan, the unfunded obligations of the plan may be required to be assumed by the remaining participating employers and (iii) if we choose to stop participating in any of our Multiemployer Pension Plans, we may be required to pay those plans a withdrawal amount based on the underfunded status of the plan. The following table outlines our participation in Multiemployer Pension Plans considered to be individually significant (dollar amounts in millions):


	EIN/Pension Plan Number		Pension Protection Act Reported Status(a)				FIP/RP Status(b),(c)		Company Contributions(d)						Expiration Date of Collective Bargaining Agreement(s)
Pension Fund	EIN/Pension Plan Number		2016		2015		FIP/RP Status(b),(c)		2016		2015		2014		Expiration Date of Collective Bargaining Agreement(s)
Automotive Industries Pension Plan		EIN: 94-1133245; Plan Number: 001		Critical and Declining		Critical		Implemented	$	1	$	1	$	1		Various dates through 6/30/2018

Distributors Association Warehousemen’s Pension Trust		EIN: 94-0294755; Plan Number: 002		Critical as of 5/31/2015		Critical as of 5/31/2014		Implemented		1		1		1		4/7/2018

Local 731 Private Scavengers and Garage Attendants Pension Trust Fund		EIN: 36-6513567; Plan Number: 001		Not Endangered or Critical as of 9/30/2015		Endangered as of 9/30/2014		Implemented		7		7		6		9/30/2018

Suburban Teamsters of Northern Illinois Pension Plan		EIN: 36-6155778; Plan Number: 001		Endangered		Critical		Implemented		3		2		3		Various dates through 9/30/2017

Teamsters Local 301 Pension Plan		EIN: 36-6492992; Plan Number: 001		Not Endangered or Critical		Not Endangered or Critical		Not Applicable		2		1		1		9/30/2018

Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan		EIN: 91-6145047; Plan Number: 001		Not Endangered or Critical		Not Endangered or Critical		Not Applicable		25		24		24		Various dates through 12/31/2019

Western Pennsylvania Teamsters and Employers Pension Plan		EIN: 25-6029946; Plan Number: 001		Critical		Critical		Implemented		1		1		1		12/31/2016; 90-day extension with agreements currently under negotiation

									$	40	$	37	$	37

Contributions to other Multiemployer Pension Plans										7		6		7


Total contributions to Multiemployer Pension Plans(e)									$	47	$	43	$	44

(a)

Unless otherwise noted in the table above, the most recent Pension Protection Act zone status available in 2016 and 2015 is for the plan’s year-end at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The zone status is based on information that we received from the plan and is certified by the plan’s actuary. As defined in the Pension Protection Act of 2006, among other factors, plans reported as critical are generally less than 65% funded and plans reported as endangered are generally less than 80% funded. Under the Multiemployer Pension Reform Act of 2014, a plan is generally in critical and declining status if it (i) is certified to be in critical status pursuant to the Pension Protection Act of 2006 and (ii) is projected to be insolvent within the next 15 years or, in certain circumstances, 20 years.

(b)	The “FIP/RP Status” column indicates plans for which a Funding Improvement Plan (“FIP”) or a Rehabilitation Plan (“RP”) is either pending or has been implemented.

(c)

A Multiemployer Pension Plan that has been certified as endangered, seriously endangered or critical may begin to levy a statutory surcharge on contribution rates. Once authorized, the surcharge is at the rate of 5% for the first 12 months and 10% for any periods thereafter. Contributing employers, however, may eliminate the surcharge by entering into a collective bargaining agreement that meets the requirements of the applicable FIP or RP.

(d)	The Company was listed in the Form 5500 of the Multiemployer Pension Plans considered to be individually significant as providing more than 5% of the total contributions for each of the following plans and plan years:


		Year Contributions to Plan Exceeded 5% of Total Contributions (as of Plan’s Year End)
Distributors Association Warehousemen’s Pension Trust		5/31/2015 and 5/31/2014
Local 731 Private Scavengers and Garage Attendants Pension Trust Fund		9/30/2015 and 9/30/2014
Suburban Teamsters of Northern Illinois Pension Plan		12/31/2015 and 12/31/2014
Teamsters Local 301 Pension Plan		12/31/2015 and 12/31/2014

(e)	Total contributions to Multiemployer Pension Plans excludes contributions related to withdrawal liabilities discussed below.

At the date the financial statements were issued, Forms 5500 were not available for the plan years ended in 2016.

Our portion of the projected benefit obligation, plan assets and unfunded liability of the Multiemployer Pension Plans is not material to our financial position. However, the failure of participating employers to remain solvent could affect our portion of the plans’ unfunded liability. Specific benefit levels provided by union pension plans are not negotiated with or known by the employer contributors.

In connection with our ongoing renegotiations of various collective bargaining agreements, we may discuss and negotiate for the complete or partial withdrawal from one or more of these pension plans. Further, business events, such as the discontinuation or nonrenewal of a customer contract, the decertification of a union, or relocation, reduction or discontinuance of certain operations, which result in the decline of Company contributions to a Multiemployer Pension Plan could trigger a partial or complete withdrawal. In the event of a withdrawal, we may incur expenses associated with our obligations for unfunded vested benefits at the time of the withdrawal. In 2015 and 2014, we recognized aggregate charges of $51 million and $4 million, respectively, to “Operating” expenses for the withdrawal of certain bargaining units from Multiemployer Pension Plans. In 2016, we did not recognize any charges for the withdrawal from Multiemployer Pension Plans. Refer to Note 11 for additional information related to our obligations to Multiemployer Pension Plans for which we have withdrawn or partially withdrawn.

Multiemployer Plan Benefits Other Than Pensions — During the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, the Company made contributions of $40 million, $33 million and $34 million, respectively, to multiemployer health and welfare plans that also provide other post-retirement employee benefits. Funding of benefit payments for plan participants are made at rates as negotiated in the respective collective bargaining agreements as costs are incurred.

Commitments and Contingencies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Commitments and Contingencies

11. Commitments and Contingencies

Financial Instruments — We have obtained letters of credit, surety bonds and insurance policies and have established trust funds and issued financial guarantees to support tax-exempt bonds, contracts, performance of landfill final capping, closure and post-closure requirements, environmental remediation and other obligations. Letters of credit generally are supported by our $2.25 billion revolving credit facility and other credit facilities established for that purpose. These facilities are discussed further in Note 7. Surety bonds and insurance policies are supported by (i) a diverse group of third-party surety and insurance companies; (ii) an entity in which we have a noncontrolling financial interest or (iii) wholly-owned insurance companies, the sole business of which is to issue surety bonds and/or insurance policies on our behalf.

Management does not expect that any claims against or draws on these instruments would have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial statements. We have not experienced any unmanageable difficulty in obtaining the required financial assurance instruments for our current operations. In an ongoing effort to mitigate risks of future cost increases and reductions in available capacity, we continue to evaluate various options to access cost-effective sources of financial assurance.

Insurance — We carry insurance coverage for protection of our assets and operations from certain risks including general liability, automobile liability, real and personal property, workers’ compensation, directors’ and officers’ liability, pollution legal liability and other coverages we believe are customary to the industry. Our exposure to loss for insurance claims is generally limited to the per incident deductible under the related insurance policy. Our exposure, however, could increase if our insurers are unable to meet their commitments on a timely basis.

We have retained a significant portion of the risks related to our general liability, automobile liability and workers’ compensation claims programs. “General liability” refers to the self-insured portion of specific third-party claims made against us that may be covered under our commercial General Liability Insurance Policy. For our self-insured retentions, the exposure for unpaid claims and associated expenses, including incurred but not reported losses, is based on an actuarial valuation and internal estimates. The accruals for these liabilities could be revised if future occurrences or loss development significantly differ from our assumptions used. As of December 31, 2016, our commercial General Liability Insurance Policy carried self-insurance exposures of up to $2.5 million per incident and our workers’ compensation insurance program carried self-insurance exposures of up to $5 million per incident. As of December 31, 2016, our automobile liability insurance program included a per-incident base deductible of $5 million, subject to an additional deductible of $4.8 million in the $5 million to $10 million layer. The changes to our net insurance liabilities for the three years ended December 31, 2016 are summarized below (in millions):


	Gross Claims Liability			Receivables Associated with Insured Claims(a)			Net Claims Liability
Balance, December 31, 2013	$	590		$	(197	)	$	393
Self-insurance expense (benefit)		135			(9	)		126
Cash (paid) received		(128	)		23			(105	)

Balance, December 31, 2014		597			(183	)		414
Self-insurance expense (benefit)		169			(39	)		130
Cash (paid) received		(123	)		4			(119	)

Balance, December 31, 2015		643			(218	)		425
Self-insurance expense (benefit)		71			30			101
Cash (paid) received		(126	)		17			(109	)

Balance, December 31, 2016(b)	$	588		$	(171	)	$	417

Current portion at December 31, 2016	$	133		$	(20	)	$	113
Long-term portion at December 31, 2016	$	455		$	(151	)	$	304

(a)	Amounts reported as receivables associated with insured claims are related to both paid and unpaid claims liabilities.

(b)	We currently expect substantially all of our net claims liability to be settled in cash over the next six years.

The Directors’ and Officers’ Liability Insurance policy we choose to maintain covers only individual executive liability, often referred to as “Broad Form Side A,” and does not provide corporate reimbursement coverage, often referred to as “Side B.” The Side A policy covers directors and officers directly for loss, including defense costs, when corporate indemnification is unavailable. Side A-only coverage cannot be exhausted by payments to the Company, as the Company is not insured for any money it advances for defense costs or pays as indemnity to the insured directors and officers.

We do not expect the impact of any known casualty, property, environmental or other contingency to have a material impact on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Operating Leases — Rental expense for leased assets was $125 million during 2016, $140 million during 2015 and $159 million during 2014. Minimum contractual payments due for our operating lease obligations are $109 million in 2017, $90 million in 2018, $73 million in 2019, $62 million in 2020, $44 million in 2021 and $306 million thereafter. Our minimum contractual payments for lease agreements during future periods is less than current year rent expense primarily due to the effect of short-term leases.

Other Commitments

•

Disposal — We have several agreements expiring at various dates through 2052 that require us to dispose of a minimum number of tons at third-party disposal facilities. Under these put-or-pay agreements, we are required to pay for the agreed upon minimum volumes regardless of the actual number of tons placed at the facilities. Additionally, following the sale of our Wheelabrator business, we entered into several agreements to dispose of a minimum number of tons of waste at certain Wheelabrator facilities. These agreements generally provide for fixed volume commitments with certain market price resets through 2021. We generally fulfill our minimum contractual obligations by disposing of volumes collected in the ordinary course of business at these disposal facilities.

•

Waste Paper — We are party to waste paper purchase agreements expiring at various dates through 2019 that require us to purchase a minimum number of tons of waste paper. The cost per ton we pay is based on market prices.

•

Royalties — We have various arrangements that require us to make royalty payments to third parties including prior land owners, lessors or host communities where our operations are located. Our obligations generally are based on per ton rates for waste actually received at our transfer stations or landfills. Royalty agreements that are non-cancelable and require fixed or minimum payments are included in our “Capital leases and other” debt obligations in our Consolidated Balance Sheets as disclosed in Note 7.

Our unconditional purchase obligations are generally established in the ordinary course of our business and are structured in a manner that provides us with access to important resources at competitive, market-driven rates. We may also establish unconditional purchase obligations in conjunction with acquisitions or divestitures. Our actual future minimum obligations under these outstanding purchase agreements are generally quantity driven and, as a result, our associated financial obligations are not fixed as of December 31, 2016. For contracts that require us to purchase minimum quantities of goods or services, we have estimated our future minimum obligations based on the current market values of the underlying products or services. As of December 31, 2016, our estimated minimum obligations for the above-described purchase obligations, which are not recognized in our Consolidated Balance Sheets, were $179 million in 2017, $149 million in 2018, $112 million in 2019, $92 million in 2020, $88 million in 2021 and $336 million thereafter. We currently expect the products and services provided by these agreements to continue to meet the needs of our ongoing operations. Therefore, we do not expect these established arrangements to materially impact our future financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Guarantees — We have entered into the following guarantee agreements associated with our operations:

•

As of December 31, 2016, WM Holdings has fully and unconditionally guaranteed all of WM’s senior indebtedness, including its senior notes, $2.25 billion revolving credit facility and certain letter of credit facilities, which mature through 2045. WM has fully and unconditionally guaranteed the senior indebtedness of WM Holdings, which matures in 2026. Performance under these guarantee agreements would be required if either party defaulted on their respective obligations. No additional liabilities have been recorded for these intercompany guarantees because all of the underlying obligations are reflected in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. See Note 23 for further information.

•

WM and WM Holdings have guaranteed subsidiary debt obligations, including the Canadian term loan and revolving credit facility, tax-exempt bonds, capital leases and other indebtedness. If a subsidiary fails to meet its obligations associated with its debt agreements as they come due, WM or WM Holdings will be required to perform under the related guarantee agreement. No additional liabilities have been recorded for these intercompany guarantees because all of the underlying obligations are reflected in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. See Note 7 for information related to the balances and maturities of these debt obligations.

•

Before the divestiture of our Wheelabrator business, WM had guaranteed certain operational and financial performance obligations of Wheelabrator and its subsidiaries in the ordinary course of business. In conjunction with the divestiture, certain WM guarantees of Wheelabrator obligations were terminated, but others continued and are now guarantees of third-party obligations. Wheelabrator is working with the various third-party beneficiaries to release WM from these guarantees, but until they are successful, WM has agreed to retain the guarantees and, in exchange, receive a credit support fee. The most significant of these guarantees specifically define WM’s maximum financial obligation over the course of the relevant agreements. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, WM’s maximum future payments under these guarantees were $96 million and $106 million, respectively. WM’s exposure under certain of the performance guarantees is variable and a maximum exposure is not defined. We have recorded the fair value of the operational and financial performance guarantees, some of which could extend through 2038 if not terminated, in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The estimated fair value of WM’s potential obligation associated with guarantees of Wheelabrator obligations (net of credit support fee) at December 31, 2016 and 2015 was $11 million and $13 million, respectively. We currently do not expect the financial impact of such operational and financial performance guarantees to materially exceed the recorded fair value.

•

We have guaranteed certain financial obligations of unconsolidated entities. The related obligations, which mature through 2020, are not recorded in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. As of December 31, 2016, our maximum future payments associated with these guarantees are $6 million. Any requirement to act under these guarantees would not materially impact our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

•

Certain of our subsidiaries have guaranteed the market or contractually-determined value of certain homeowners’ properties that are adjacent to certain of our landfills. These guarantee agreements extend over the life of the respective landfill. Under these agreements, we would be responsible for the difference, if any, between the sale value and the guaranteed market or contractually-determined value of the homeowners’ properties. As of December 31, 2016, we have agreements guaranteeing certain market value losses for approximately 850 homeowners’ properties adjacent to or near 22 of our landfills. We do not believe that these contingent obligations will have a material effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

•

We have indemnified the purchasers of businesses or divested assets for the occurrence of specified events under certain of our divestiture agreements. Other than certain identified items that are currently recorded as obligations, we do not believe that it is possible to determine the contingent obligations associated with these indemnities. Additionally, under certain of our acquisition agreements, we have provided for additional consideration to be paid to the sellers if established financial targets or other market conditions are achieved post-closing and we have recognized liabilities for these contingent obligations based on an estimate of the fair value of these contingencies at the time of acquisition. We do not currently believe that contingent obligations to provide indemnification or pay additional post-closing consideration in connection with our divestitures or acquisitions will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

•

WM and WM Holdings guarantee the service, lease, financial and general operating obligations of certain of their subsidiaries. If such a subsidiary fails to meet its contractual obligations as they come due, the guarantor has an unconditional obligation to perform on its behalf. No additional liability has been recorded for service, financial or general operating guarantees because the subsidiaries’ obligations are properly accounted for as costs of operations as services are provided or general operating obligations as incurred. No additional liability has been recorded for the lease guarantees because the subsidiaries’ obligations are properly accounted for as operating or capital leases, as appropriate.

Environmental Matters — A significant portion of our operating costs and capital expenditures could be characterized as costs of environmental protection. The nature of our operations, particularly with respect to the construction, operation and maintenance of our landfills, subjects us to an array of laws and regulations relating to the protection of the environment. Under current laws and regulations, we may have liabilities for environmental damage caused by our operations, or for damage caused by conditions that existed before we acquired a site. In addition to remediation activity required by state or local authorities, such liabilities include potentially responsible party (“PRP”) investigations. The costs associated with these liabilities can include settlements, certain legal and consultant fees, as well as incremental internal and external costs directly associated with site investigation and clean-up.

As of December 31, 2016, we had been notified by the government that we are a PRP in connection with 75 locations listed on the EPA’s Superfund National Priorities List (“NPL”). Of the 75 sites at which claims have been made against us, 15 are sites we own. Each of the NPL sites we own was initially developed by others as a landfill disposal facility. At each of these facilities, we are working in conjunction with the government to evaluate or remediate identified site problems, and we have either agreed with other legally liable parties on an arrangement for sharing the costs of remediation or are working toward a cost-sharing agreement. We generally expect to receive any amounts due from other participating parties at or near the time that we make the remedial expenditures. The other 60 NPL sites, which we do not own, are at various procedural stages under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, as amended, known as CERCLA or Superfund.

The majority of proceedings involving NPL sites that we do not own are based on allegations that certain of our subsidiaries (or their predecessors) transported hazardous substances to the sites, often prior to our acquisition of these subsidiaries. CERCLA generally provides for liability for those parties owning, operating, transporting to or disposing at the sites. Proceedings arising under Superfund typically involve numerous waste generators and other waste transportation and disposal companies and seek to allocate or recover costs associated with site investigation and remediation, which costs could be substantial and could have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial statements. At some of the sites at which we have been identified as a PRP, our liability is well defined as a consequence of a governmental decision and an agreement among liable parties as to the share each will pay for implementing that remedy. At other sites, where no remedy has been selected or the liable parties have been unable to agree on an appropriate allocation, our future costs are uncertain.

In September 2016, the EPA announced a proposed remediation plan for the San Jacinto waste pits in Harris County, Texas, naming McGinnes Industrial Maintenance Corporation (“MIMC”), a subsidiary of WM, as a PRP. MIMC operated the waste pits from 1965 to 1966. In 1998, WM acquired the stock of the parent entity of MIMC. During the six months ended December 31, 2016, we increased our environmental remediation liability reserve by $44 million to record MIMC’s estimated share of the EPA’s proposed remedy. The remedy and remedial design plan for the site are not yet final. A notice and comment period with respect to the remedy closed on January 12, 2017. MIMC filed comments, detailing its disagreement with the proposed remedy put forth by the EPA and is continuing to focus on a solution that it believes best protects the environment and public health. MIMC’s ultimate liability could be materially different from current estimates. We remain an active participant in the EPA’s process established to evaluate and determine the appropriate remedy and remedial design plan for this site. As this site was never owned by the Company and never operated by MIMC while under the Company’s ownership, the increase in this liability was recorded in “(Income) expense from divestitures, asset impairments and unusual items” instead of “Operating” expenses in our Consolidated Statement of Operations. See Note 13 for further discussion.

Item 103 of the SEC’s Regulation S-K requires disclosure of certain environmental matters when a governmental authority is a party to the proceedings, or such proceedings are known to be contemplated, unless we reasonably believe that the matter will result in no monetary sanctions, or in monetary sanctions, exclusive of interest and costs, of less than $100,000. The following matter is disclosed in accordance with that requirement.

Waste Management of Hawaii, Inc. (“WMHI”) may face civil claims from the Hawaii Department of Health and/or the EPA based upon water discharges at the Waimanalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill, which WMHI operates for the city and county of Honolulu, following three major rainstorms in December 2010 and January 2011. We do not anticipate such claims could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

From time to time, we are also named as defendants in personal injury and property damage lawsuits, including purported class actions, on the basis of having owned, operated or transported waste to a disposal facility that is alleged to have contaminated the environment or, in certain cases, on the basis of having conducted environmental remediation activities at sites. Some of the lawsuits may seek to have us pay the costs of monitoring of allegedly affected sites and health care examinations of allegedly affected persons for a substantial period of time even where no actual damage is proven. While we believe we have meritorious defenses to these lawsuits, the ultimate resolution is often substantially uncertain due to the difficulty of determining the cause, extent and impact of alleged contamination (which may have occurred over a long period of time), the potential for successive groups of complainants to emerge, the diversity of the individual plaintiffs’ circumstances, and the potential contribution or indemnification obligations of co-defendants or other third parties, among other factors. Additionally, we often enter into agreements with landowners imposing obligations on us to meet certain regulatory or contractual conditions upon site closure or upon termination of the agreements. Compliance with these agreements inherently involves subjective determinations and may result in disputes, including litigation.

Litigation — On March 26, 2015, the Company acquired Deffenbaugh. In May 2012 and December 2013, Deffenbaugh was named as a defendant in purported class actions filed in the United States District Court for the District of Kansas. These cases pertained to fuel, environmental and base rate charges included on invoices, generally alleging that such charges were not properly disclosed, were unfair or were contrary to the customer service contracts. We settled both cases, and we received final court approval of these settlements on December 14, 2016. The settlements did not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

As a large company with operations across the United States and Canada, we are subject to various proceedings, lawsuits, disputes and claims arising in the ordinary course of our business. Many of these actions raise complex factual and legal issues and are subject to uncertainties. Actions that have been filed against us, and that may be filed against us in the future, include personal injury, property damage, commercial, customer, and employment-related claims, including purported state and national class action lawsuits related to: alleged environmental contamination, including releases of hazardous material and odors; sales and marketing practices, customer service agreements and prices and fees; and federal and state wage and hour and other laws. The plaintiffs in some actions seek unspecified damages or injunctive relief, or both. These actions are in various procedural stages, and some are covered in part by insurance. We currently do not believe that the eventual outcome of any such actions will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

WM’s charter and bylaws provide that WM shall indemnify against all liabilities and expenses, and upon request shall advance expenses to any person, who is subject to a pending or threatened proceeding because such person is or was a director or officer of the Company. Such indemnification is required to the maximum extent permitted under Delaware law. Accordingly, the director or officer must execute an undertaking to reimburse the Company for any fees advanced if it is later determined that the director or officer was not entitled to have such fees advanced under Delaware law. Additionally, the Company has direct contractual obligations to provide indemnification to each of the members of WM’s Board of Directors, our President and Chief Executive Officer, our Chief Operating Officer and certain other senior vice presidents. The Company may incur substantial expenses in connection with the fulfillment of its advancement of costs and indemnification obligations in connection with actions or proceedings that may be brought against its former or current officers, directors and employees.

Multiemployer Defined Benefit Pension Plans — About 20% of our workforce is covered by collective bargaining agreements with various local unions across the United States and Canada. As a result of some of these agreements, certain of our subsidiaries are participating employers in a number of Multiemployer Pension Plans for the covered employees. Refer to Note 10 for additional information about our participation in Multiemployer Pension Plans considered individually significant. In connection with our ongoing renegotiation of various collective bargaining agreements, we may discuss and negotiate for the complete or partial withdrawal from one or more of these pension plans. A complete or partial withdrawal from a Multiemployer Pension Plan may also occur if employees covered by a collective bargaining agreement vote to decertify a union from continuing to represent them. Any other circumstance resulting in a decline in Company contributions to a Multiemployer Pension Plan through a reduction in the labor force, whether through attrition over time or through a business event (such as the discontinuation or nonrenewal of a customer contract, the decertification of a union, or relocation, reduction or discontinuance of certain operations) may also trigger a complete or partial withdrawal from one or more of these pension plans.

One of the most significant Multiemployer Pension Plans in which we have participated is the Central States, Southeast and Southwest Areas Pension Plan (“Central States Pension Plan”). In 2008, we reached agreement with all of the unions involved to cease participation in the Central States Pension Plan. Since that time, litigation with the Central States Pension Plan had been pending over several matters, including the effective date that our contribution obligations ceased. In the third quarter of 2015, we settled and paid all amounts due for all pending litigation with the trustees for the Central States Pension Plan regarding liability for contributions to the plan and withdrawal liability resulting from the cessation of contributions. Similarly, in the fourth quarter of 2015, we settled and paid all amounts due for outstanding issues regarding plan contributions and withdrawal liability with the Teamsters Employers Local 945 Pension Fund.

In 2015, we recognized a $51 million charge in “Operating” expenses associated with withdrawal from certain underfunded Multiemployer Pension Plans, nearly all of which was associated with the Central States Pension Plan and the Teamsters Employers Local 945 Pension Fund withdrawals discussed above. We do not believe that any future liability for withdrawals from the Multiemployer Pension Plans to which we contribute, will have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or liquidity. However, liability for future withdrawals could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or cash flows for a particular reporting period, depending on the number of employees withdrawn and the financial condition of the Multiemployer Pension Plan(s) at the time of such withdrawal(s).

Tax Matters — We maintain a liability for uncertain tax positions, the balance of which management believes is adequate. Results of audit assessments by taxing authorities are not currently expected to have a material adverse impact on our results of operations or cash flows. See Note 9 for additional discussion regarding tax matters.

Restructuring Costs

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]

Restructuring Costs

12. Restructuring Costs

The following table summarizes pre-tax restructuring charges, including employee severance and benefit costs and other charges, for the years ended December 31 (in millions):


	2016		2015		2014
Solid Waste	$	4	$	14	$	10
Corporate and Other		—		1		71
Wheelabrator		—		—		1

	$	4	$	15	$	82

During the year ended December 31, 2016, we recognized $4 million of pre-tax restructuring charges, of which $2 million was related to employee severance and benefit costs. The remaining charges were primarily related to operating lease obligations for property that will no longer be utilized.

During the year ended December 31, 2015, we recognized $15 million of pre-tax restructuring charges, of which $10 million was related to employee severance and benefit costs, including costs associated with the loss of a municipal contract in our Eastern Canada Area and our acquisition of Deffenbaugh. The remaining charges were primarily related to operating lease obligations for property that will no longer be utilized.

In August 2014, we announced a consolidation and realignment of several Corporate functions to better support achievement of the Company’s strategic goals, including cost reduction. Voluntary separation arrangements were offered to all salaried employees within these organizations. Approximately 650 employees separated from our Corporate and recycling organizations in connection with this restructuring. During the year ended December 31, 2014, we recognized a total of $82 million of pre-tax restructuring charges, of which $70 million was related to employee severance and benefit costs. The remaining charges were primarily related to operating lease obligations for property that will no longer be utilized.

As of December 31, 2016, substantially all of the accrued employee severance and benefits related to our restructuring efforts was paid.

Asset Impairments and Unusual Items

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Unusual or Infrequent Items, or Both [Abstract]

Asset Impairments and Unusual Items

13. Asset Impairments and Unusual Items

(Income) expense from divestitures, asset impairments and unusual items

The following table summarizes the major components of (income) expense from divestitures, asset impairments and unusual items for the years ended December 31 (in millions):


	2016		2015			2014
(Income) expense from divestitures	$	9	$	(7	)	$	(515	)
Asset impairments		59		89			355
Other		44		—			—

	$	112	$	82		$	(160	)

During the year ended December 31, 2016, we recognized net charges of $112 million, primarily related to (i) $44 million of charges to adjust our subsidiary’s estimated environmental remediation liability related to a closed site in Harris County, Texas, as further discussed in Note 11; (ii) a $43 million charge to impair a landfill in Western Pennsylvania due to a loss of expected volumes; (iii) $12 million of goodwill impairment charges primarily related to our LampTracker^® reporting unit and (iv) an $8 million loss on the sale of a majority-owned organics company.

During the year ended December 31, 2015, we recognized net charges of $82 million, primarily related to (i) $66 million of charges to impair certain of our oil and gas producing properties as a result of the continued decline in oil and gas prices; (ii) $18 million of charges to write down or divest certain assets in our recycling operations and (iii) a $5 million impairment of a landfill in our Western Canada Area due to revised post-closure cost estimates. Partially offsetting these charges was $7 million of net gains from divestitures, including a $6 million gain on the sale of an oil and gas producing property in 2015.

During the year ended December 31, 2014, we recognized net gains of $160 million, primarily related to the following:

•

Divestitures — We recognized net gains of $515 million, primarily as a result of a $519 million gain on the sale of our Wheelabrator business and an $18 million gain on the sale of certain landfill and collection operations in our Eastern Canada Area. Partially offsetting these gains was a $25 million loss on the divestiture of our Puerto Rico operations. Refer to Note 19 for additional information related to our divestitures.

•

Oil and gas producing properties impairments — We recognized $272 million of charges to impair certain of our oil and gas producing properties, primarily as a result of the pronounced decrease in oil and gas prices in the fourth quarter of 2014.

•

Goodwill impairments — We recognized $10 million of goodwill impairment charges related to our recycling reporting unit.

•

Other impairments — We recognized additional impairment charges of $73 million to write down assets in our waste diversion technology, renewable energy, recycling and medical waste operations.

See Note 3 for additional information related to the accounting policy and analysis involved in identifying and calculating impairments; and see Note 21 for additional information related to the impact of impairments on the results of operations of our reportable segments.

Equity in net losses of unconsolidated entities

During the year ended December 31, 2014, we recognized charges of $11 million primarily to write down equity method investments in waste diversion technology companies to their fair value.

Other income (expense)

During the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, we recognized impairment charges of $42 million, $5 million and $22 million, respectively, related to other-than-temporary declines in the value of minority-owned, cost method investments in waste diversion technology companies. We wrote down our investments to their fair value which was primarily determined using an income approach based on estimated future cash flow projections and, to a lesser extent, third-party investors’ recent transactions in these securities.

Also, during the year ended December 31, 2014, we sold our cost method investment in Shanghai Environment Group, which was part of our Wheelabrator business. We received cash proceeds from the sale of $155 million, which have been included in “Proceeds from divestitures of businesses and other assets (net of cash divested)” within “Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities” in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. The loss recognized related to the sale was not material.

These charges are recorded in “Other, net” in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Equity [Abstract]

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

14. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The changes in the balances of each component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, which is included as a component of Waste Management, Inc. stockholders’ equity, are as follows (in millions, with amounts in parentheses representing decreases to accumulated other comprehensive income):


	Derivative Instruments			Available- for-Sale Securities			Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments			Post- Retirement Benefit Obligation			Total
Balance, December 31, 2013	$	(62	)	$	6		$	208		$	2		$	154
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, net of tax provision (benefit) of $4, $2, $0 and $(8), respectively		6			4			(107	)		(11	)		(108	)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss, net of tax (provision) benefit of $(3), $0, $0 and $0, respectively		(5	)		—			(17	)		(1	)		(23	)

Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)		1			4			(124	)		(12	)		(131	)

Balance, December 31, 2014	$	(61	)	$	10		$	84		$	(10	)	$	23
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, net of tax provision (benefit) of $20, $(1), $0 and $1, respectively		30			(2	)		(164	)		2			(134	)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss, net of tax (provision) benefit of $(14), $0, $0 and $0, respectively		(21	)		—			5			—			(16	)

Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)		9			(2	)		(159	)		2			(150	)

Balance, December 31, 2015	$	(52	)	$	8		$	(75	)	$	(8	)	$	(127	)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, net of tax provision (benefit) of $(4), $3, $0 and $0, respectively		(7	)		5			26			—			24
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss, net of tax (provision) benefit of $12, $0, $0 and $1, respectively		19			—			2			2			23

Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)		12			5			28			2			47

Balance, December 31, 2016	$	(40	)	$	13		$	(47	)	$	(6	)	$	(80	)

The amounts of other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications associated with the effective portion of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges for the years ended December 31 are as follows (in millions):


	2016			2015			2014
Forward-starting interest rate swaps	$	—		$	—		$	(8	)
Foreign currency derivatives		(11	)		50			23
Electricity commodity derivatives		—			—			(5	)

Total before tax		(11	)		50			10
Tax (provision) benefit		4			(20	)		(4	)

Net of tax (provision) benefit	$	(7	)	$	30		$	6

The significant amounts reclassified out of each component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) associated with our cash flow hedges for the years ended December 31 are as follows (in millions, with amounts in parentheses representing debits to the statement of operations classification):


	2016			2015			2014			Statement of Operations Classification
Forward-starting interest rate swaps	$	(10	)	$	(12	)	$	(10	)	Interest expense, net
Treasury rate locks		(1	)		(4	)		(1	)	Interest expense, net
Foreign currency derivatives		(20	)		51			27		Other, net
Electricity commodity derivatives		—			—			(8	)	Operating revenues

		(31	)		35			8		Total before tax
		12			(14	)		(3	)	Tax (provision) benefit

Total reclassifications for the period	$	(19	)	$	21		$	5		Net of tax

- Definition

The entire disclosure for comprehensive income, which includes, but is not limited to, 1) the amount of income tax expense or benefit allocated to each component of other comprehensive income, including reclassification adjustments, 2) the reclassification adjustments for each classification of other comprehensive income and 3) the ending accumulated balances for each component of comprehensive income.

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+ Details

Capital Stock, Dividends and Common Stock Repurchase Program

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]

Capital Stock, Dividends and Common Stock Repurchase Program

15. Capital Stock, Dividends and Common Stock Repurchase Program

Capital Stock

We have 1.5 billion shares of authorized common stock with a par value of $0.01 per common share. As of December 31, 2016, we had 439.3 million shares of common stock issued and outstanding. The Board of Directors is authorized to issue preferred stock in series, and with respect to each series, to fix its designation, relative rights (including voting, dividend, conversion, sinking fund, and redemption rights), preferences (including dividends and liquidation) and limitations. We have 10 million shares of authorized preferred stock, $0.01 par value, none of which is currently outstanding.

Dividends

Our quarterly dividends have been declared by our Board of Directors. Cash dividends declared and paid were $726 million in 2016, or $1.64 per common share, $695 million in 2015, or $1.54 per common share, and $693 million in 2014, or $1.50 per common share.

In December 2016, we announced that our Board of Directors expects to increase the quarterly dividend from $0.41 to $0.425 per share for dividends declared in 2017. However, all future dividend declarations are at the discretion of the Board of Directors and depend on various factors, including our net earnings, financial condition, cash required for future business plans and other factors the Board of Directors may deem relevant.

Common Stock Repurchase Program

Our share repurchases have been authorized by our Board of Directors. Share repurchases during 2016, 2015 and 2014 were completed through accelerated share repurchase (“ASR”) agreements. The terms of these agreements required that we deliver cash at the beginning of each ASR repurchase period. In exchange, we received a portion of the total shares expected to be repurchased based on the then-current market price of our common stock. The remaining shares repurchased over the course of each repurchase period are delivered to us once the repurchase period is complete. Shares repurchased are reflected in the period the shares are delivered to us. Additional information related to our ASR agreements is included below. The following is a summary of our share repurchases under our common stock repurchase program for the years ended December 31:


	2016(a)	2015(b)	2014(c)
Shares repurchased (in thousands)	11,241	14,823	9,569
Weighted average per share purchase price	$60.49	$49.83	$43.89
Total repurchases (in millions)	$725	$600	$600

(a)

During 2016, we executed four ASR agreements to repurchase $725 million of our common stock. The ASR agreement entered into in November 2016 was for the repurchase of $225 million of our common stock. At the beginning of the repurchase period, we delivered $225 million in cash and received 2.8 million shares based on a stock price of $63.41 per share. The ASR agreement completed in February 2017, at which time we received 0.4 million additional shares based on a final weighted average per share purchase price during the repurchase period of $69.43.

(b)	During 2015, we executed and completed two ASR agreements to repurchase $600 million of our common stock. Our “Shares repurchased” also includes 2.8 million shares related to ASR agreements that were executed in 2014, discussed further below.

(c)

During 2014, we executed two ASR agreements to repurchase $600 million of our common stock. Our “Shares repurchased” includes the initial portion of shares repurchased based on the then-current market price of our common stock. The ASR agreements were completed in 2015 and the final weighted average per share purchase price during the repurchase period was $48.58.

Each ASR agreement is accounted for as two separate transactions: (i) as shares of reacquired common stock for the shares delivered to us upon effectiveness of the ASR agreement and (ii) as a forward contract indexed to our own common stock for the undelivered shares. The initial delivery of shares is included in treasury stock at cost, and results in an immediate reduction of the outstanding shares used to calculate the weighted average common shares outstanding for basic and diluted earnings per share. The forward contracts indexed to our own stock meets the criteria for equity classification, and these amounts are initially recorded in additional paid-in capital and reclassified to treasury stock upon completion of the ASR agreement. As of December 31, 2016, $45 million of the ASR agreement executed in November 2016 is recorded in additional paid-in capital pending completion of this ASR agreement in February 2017.

We announced in December 2016 that the Board of Directors has authorized up to $750 million in future share repurchases, which supersedes and replaces remaining authority under any prior Board of Directors authorization for share repurchases. Any future share repurchases will be made at the discretion of management, and will depend on factors similar to those considered by the Board of Directors in making dividend declarations.

Stock-Based Compensation

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]

Stock-Based Compensation

16. Stock-Based Compensation

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

We have an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”) under which employees that have been employed for at least 30 days may purchase shares of our common stock at a discount. The plan provides for two offering periods for purchases: January through June and July through December. At the end of each offering period, enrolled employees purchase shares of our common stock at a price equal to 85% of the lesser of the market value of the stock on the first and last day of such offering period. The purchases are made at the end of an offering period with funds accumulated through payroll deductions over the course of the offering period, and the number of shares that may be purchased is limited by IRS regulations. The total number of shares issued under the plan for the offering periods in each of 2016, 2015 and 2014 was approximately 647,000, 786,000 and 774,000, respectively. Including the impact of the January 2017 issuance of shares associated with the July to December 2016 offering period, approximately 2.5 million shares remain available for issuance under the plan.

Accounting for our ESPP increased annual compensation expense by approximately $7 million, or $4 million net of tax provision, for 2016 and $6 million, or $4 million net of tax provision, for 2015 and 2014.

Employee Stock Incentive Plans

In May 2014, our stockholders approved our 2014 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2014 Plan”) to replace our 2009 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2009 Plan”). The 2014 Plan authorized 23.8 million shares of our common stock for issuance pursuant to the 2014 Plan, plus the approximately 1.1 million shares that then remained available for issuance under the 2009 Plan, and any shares subject to outstanding awards under the 2009 Plan that are subsequently cancelled, forfeited, terminate, expire or lapse. As of December 31, 2016, approximately 23.2 million shares were available for future grants under the 2014 Plan. All of our stock-based compensation awards described herein have been made pursuant to either our 2009 Plan or our 2014 Plan, collectively referred to as the “Incentive Plans.” We currently utilize treasury shares to meet the needs of our equity-based compensation programs.

Pursuant to the Incentive Plans, we have the ability to issue stock options, stock appreciation rights and stock awards, including restricted stock, restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and performance share units (“PSUs”). The terms and conditions of equity awards granted under the Incentive Plans are determined by the Management Development and Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors.

The 2016 annual Incentive Plan awards granted to the Company’s senior leadership team, which generally includes the Company’s executive officers, included a combination of PSUs and stock options. The annual Incentive Plan awards granted to certain key employees included a combination of PSUs, RSUs and stock options in 2016. The Company has also periodically granted RSUs and stock options to employees working on key initiatives, in connection with new hires and promotions and to field-based managers.

Restricted Stock Units — A summary of our RSUs is presented in the table below (units in thousands):


	Units			Weighted Average Per Share Fair Value
Unvested at January 1, 2016		524		$	43.76
Granted		186		$	57.38
Vested		(205	)	$	37.45
Forfeited		(15	)	$	51.17

Unvested at December 31, 2016		490		$	51.32

The total fair market value of RSUs that vested during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $12 million, $13 million and $3 million, respectively. During the year ended December 31, 2016, we issued approximately 136,000 shares of common stock for these vested RSUs, net of approximately 69,000 units deferred or used for payment of associated taxes.

RSUs may not be voted or sold by award recipients until time-based vesting restrictions have lapsed. RSUs primarily provide for three-year cliff vesting and include dividend equivalents accumulated during the vesting period. Unvested units are subject to forfeiture in the event of voluntary or for-cause termination. RSUs are subject to pro-rata vesting upon an employee’s retirement or involuntary termination other than for cause and become immediately vested in the event of an employee’s death or disability.

Compensation expense associated with RSUs is measured based on the grant-date fair value of our common stock and is recognized on a straight-line basis over the required employment period, which is generally the vesting period. Compensation expense is only recognized for those awards that we expect to vest, which we estimate based upon an assessment of expected forfeitures.

Performance Share Units — Two types of PSUs are currently outstanding: (i) PSUs for which payout is dependent on total shareholder return relative to the S&P 500 (“TSR PSUs”) and (ii) PSUs for which payout is dependent on the Company’s performance against pre-established adjusted cash flow metrics (“Cash Flow PSUs”). Both types of PSUs are payable in shares of common stock after the end of a three-year performance period, when the Company’s financial performance for the entire performance period is reported, typically in mid- to late-February of the succeeding year. At the end of the performance period, the number of shares awarded can range from 0% to 200% of the targeted amount, depending on the performance against the pre-established targets. A summary of our PSUs, at 100% of the targeted amount, is presented in the table below (units in thousands):


	Units			Weighted Average Per Share Fair Value
Unvested at January 1, 2016		1,762		$	52.90
Granted		555		$	79.27
Vested		(664	)	$	48.38
Forfeited		(148	)	$	76.01

Unvested at December 31, 2016		1,505		$	68.98

The determination of achievement of performance results and corresponding vesting of PSUs for the three-year performance period ended December 31, 2016 was performed by the Management Development and Compensation Committee in February 2017. Accordingly, vesting information for such awards is not included in the table above as of December 31, 2016. The “vested” PSUs are for the three-year performance period ended December 31, 2015, as achievement of performance results and corresponding vesting was determined in February 2016. The Company’s financial results, as measured for purposes of these awards, were higher than the target levels established but not in excess of the maximum performance criteria. Accordingly, recipients of these PSU awards were entitled to receive a payout of 132.88% of the vested TSR PSUs and 196.15% of the vested PSUs for which payout was dependent on the Company’s performance against a pre-established return on invested capital metric. In February 2016, approximately 1,093,000 PSUs vested and we issued approximately 547,000 shares of common stock for these vested PSUs, net of units deferred or used for payment of associated taxes.

The shares of common stock that were issued or deferred during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 for prior PSU award grants had a fair market value of $50 million, $35 million and $8 million, respectively. PSUs have no voting rights. PSUs receive dividend equivalents that are paid out in cash based on the number of shares that vest at the end of the awards’ performance period. PSUs are payable to an employee (or his beneficiary) upon death or disability as if that employee had remained employed until the end of the performance period, are subject to pro-rata vesting upon an employee’s retirement or involuntary termination other than for cause and are subject to forfeiture in the event of voluntary or for-cause termination.

Compensation expense associated with our Cash Flow PSUs that continue to vest based on future performance is measured based on the fair value of our common stock at the end of each reporting period until the performance period ends. Compensation expense is recognized ratably over the performance period based on our estimated achievement of the established performance criteria. Compensation expense is only recognized for those awards that we expect to vest, which we estimate based upon an assessment of both the probability that the performance criteria will be achieved and expected forfeitures.

The grant-date fair value of our TSR PSUs is based on a Monte Carlo valuation and compensation expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. Compensation expense is recognized for all TSR PSUs whether or not the market conditions are achieved less expected forfeitures.

Deferred Units — Recipients can elect to defer some or all of the vested RSU or PSU awards until a specified date or dates they choose. Deferred units are not invested, nor do they earn interest, but deferred amounts do receive dividend equivalents paid in cash during deferral at the same time and at the same rate as dividends on the Company’s common stock. Deferred amounts are paid out in shares of common stock at the end of the deferral period. At December 31, 2016, we had approximately 698,000 vested deferred units outstanding.

Stock Options — Stock options granted primarily vest in 25% increments on the first two anniversaries of the date of grant with the remaining 50% vesting on the third anniversary. The exercise price of the options is the average of the high and low market value of our common stock on the date of grant, and the options have a term of 10 years. A summary of our stock options is presented in the table below (options in thousands):


	Options			Weighted Average Per Share Exercise Price
Outstanding at January 1, 2016		7,507		$	40.80
Granted		1,387		$	56.24
Exercised		(2,645	)	$	37.20
Forfeited or expired		(606	)	$	51.70

Outstanding at December 31, 2016(a)		5,643		$	45.12

Exercisable at December 31, 2016(b)		2,921		$	38.84

(a)	Stock options outstanding as of December 31, 2016 have a weighted average remaining contractual term of 6.9 years and an aggregate intrinsic value of $146 million based on the market value of our common stock on December 31, 2016.

(b)	Stock options exercisable as of December 31, 2016 have an aggregate intrinsic value of $94 million based on the market value of our common stock on December 31, 2016.

We received cash proceeds of $63 million, $77 million and $93 million during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively, from employee stock option exercises. The aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $67 million, $37 million and $27 million, respectively.

Exercisable stock options at December 31, 2016, were as follows (options in thousands):


Range of Exercise Prices	Options		Weighted Average Per Share Exercise Price		Weighted Average Remaining Years
$32.315-$40.00		2,141	$	36.12		4.9
$40.01-$50.00		491	$	41.36		7.2
$50.01-$54.635		289	$	54.64		8.2

$32.315-$54.635		2,921	$	38.84		5.6

All unvested stock options shall become exercisable upon the award recipient’s death or disability. In the event of a recipient’s retirement, stock options shall continue to vest pursuant to the original schedule set forth in the award agreement. If the recipient is terminated by the Company without cause or voluntarily resigns, the recipient shall be entitled to exercise all stock options outstanding and exercisable within a specified time frame after such termination. All outstanding stock options, whether exercisable or not, are forfeited upon termination for cause.

We account for our employee stock options under the fair value method of accounting using a Black-Scholes valuation model to measure stock option expense at the date of grant. The weighted average grant-date fair value of stock options granted during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $6.31, $5.56 and $4.55, respectively. The fair value of the stock options at the date of grant is amortized to expense over the vesting period less expected forfeitures, except for stock options granted to retirement-eligible employees, for which expense is accelerated over the period that the recipient becomes retirement-eligible. The following table presents the weighted average assumptions used to value employee stock options granted during the years ended December 31 under the Black-Scholes valuation model:


	2016	2015	2014
Expected option life	4.7 years	4.4 years	4.8 years
Expected volatility	18.4%	16.7%	18.4%
Expected dividend yield	2.9%	2.8%	3.6%
Risk-free interest rate	1.3%	1.4%	1.6%

The Company bases its expected option life on the expected exercise and termination behavior of its optionees and an appropriate model of the Company’s future stock price. The expected volatility assumption is derived from the historical volatility of the Company’s common stock over the most recent period commensurate with the estimated expected life of the Company’s stock options, combined with other relevant factors including implied volatility in market-traded options on the Company’s stock. The dividend yield is the annual rate of dividends per share over the exercise price of the option as of the grant date.

For the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, we recognized $81 million, $64 million and $59 million, respectively, of compensation expense associated with RSU, PSU and stock option awards as a component of “Selling, general and administrative” expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Our “Provision for income taxes,” for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, includes related deferred income tax benefits of $32 million, $26 million and $23 million, respectively. We also realized excess tax benefits from stock option exercises and the vesting of RSUs and PSUs during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 of $28 million, $15 million and $5 million, respectively. These amounts have been presented as cash inflows in the “Cash flows from financing activities” section of our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. We have not capitalized any equity-based compensation costs during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

Compensation expense recognized in 2016 increased when compared to 2015 and 2014, primarily due to increases in the fair values and expected payouts of our PSUs. As of December 31, 2016, we estimate that $51 million of currently unrecognized compensation expense will be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.5 years for our unvested RSU, PSU and stock option awards issued and outstanding.

Non-Employee Director Plan

Our non-employee directors currently receive annual grants of shares of our common stock, generally payable in two equal installments, under the Incentive Plans described above.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for compensation-related costs for equity-based compensation, which may include disclosure of policies, compensation plan details, allocation of equity compensation, incentive distributions, equity-based arrangements to obtain goods and services, deferred compensation arrangements, employee stock ownership plan details and employee stock purchase plan details.

+ References + Details

Earnings Per Share

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Earnings Per Share

17. Earnings Per Share

Basic and diluted earnings per share were computed using the following common share data for the years ended December 31 (shares in millions):


	2016		2015		2014
Number of common shares outstanding at year-end		439.3		447.2		458.5
Effect of using weighted average common shares outstanding		4.2		5.5		4.1

Weighted average basic common shares outstanding		443.5		452.7		462.6
Dilutive effect of equity-based compensation awards and other contingently issuable shares		3.0		3.2		3.0

Weighted average diluted common shares outstanding		446.5		455.9		465.6

Potentially issuable shares		9.8		10.2		11.3
Number of anti-dilutive potentially issuable shares excluded from diluted common shares outstanding		1.0		2.0		0.4

Fair Value Measurements

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair Value Measurements

18. Fair Value Measurements

Assets and Liabilities Accounted for at Fair Value

Fair value is defined as the price that would be received from selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. When measuring assets and liabilities that are required to be recorded at fair value, the Company considers the principal or most advantageous market in which the Company would transact. Fair value is estimated by applying the following hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value into three levels and bases the categorization within the hierarchy upon the lowest level of input that is available and significant to the fair value measurement:

Level 1 — Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2 — Observable inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in inactive markets, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.

Level 3 — Inputs that are generally unobservable and typically reflect management’s estimate of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.

We use valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. In measuring the fair value of our assets and liabilities, we use market data or assumptions that we believe market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability, including assumptions about risk when appropriate. Our assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis include the following (in millions):


			Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2016 Using
	Total		Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1)		Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)		Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Assets:
Money market funds	$	35	$	35	$	—	$	—
Available-for-sale securities		46		—		46		—
Fixed-income securities		39		—		39		—
Redeemable preferred stock		54		—		—		54

Total assets	$	174	$	35	$	85	$	54


			Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2015 Using
	Total		Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1)		Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)		Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Assets:
Money market funds	$	35	$	35	$	—	$	—
Available-for-sale securities		43		—		43		—
Fixed-income securities		40		—		40		—
Foreign currency derivatives		78		—		78		—
Redeemable preferred stock		47		—		—		47

Total assets	$	243	$	35	$	161	$	47

Money Market Funds

We invest portions of our restricted trust and escrow account balances in money market funds. We measure the fair value of these investments using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets. The fair value of our money market funds approximates our cost basis in the investments.

Available-for-Sale Securities

Available-for-sale securities are primarily related to the restricted trust funds that were created to settle certain of our final capping, closure, post-closure or environmental remediation obligations, which are discussed further in Note 20. These trust funds are invested in U.S. Treasury securities and equity and bond funds. We measure the fair value of these securities using quoted prices for identical or similar assets in inactive markets. Any changes in fair value of these trusts related to unrealized gains and losses have been appropriately reflected as a component of “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).”

Fixed-Income Securities

We invest a portion of our restricted trust and escrow account balances in fixed-income securities, including U.S. Treasury securities, U.S. agency securities, municipal securities and mortgage- and asset-backed securities. We measure the fair value of these securities using quoted prices for identical or similar assets in inactive markets. The fair value of our fixed-income securities approximates our cost basis in these investments.

Foreign Currency Derivatives

In March 2016, we terminated our cross-currency swaps. Previously, our cross-currency swaps were valued using a third-party pricing model that incorporated information about forward Canadian dollar rates, or observable market data, as of the reporting date. The third-party pricing model used to value our cross-currency swaps also incorporated Company and counterparty credit valuation adjustments, as appropriate. Counterparties to these contracts were financial institutions who participated in our $2.25 billion revolving credit facility. Valuations fluctuated from period-to-period due to volatility in the Canadian dollar to U.S. dollar exchange rate over the term of the agreements.

Refer to Notes 8 and 14 for additional information regarding the derivative instruments discussed above.

Redeemable Preferred Stock

Redeemable preferred stock is primarily related to a noncontrolling investment in an unconsolidated entity and is included in “Investments in unconsolidated entities” in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The fair value of our investment has been measured based on third-party investors’ recent or pending transactions in these securities, which is considered the best evidence of fair value currently available. When this evidence is not available, we use other valuation techniques as appropriate and available. These valuation methodologies may include transactions in similar instruments, discounted cash flow techniques, third-party appraisals or industry multiples and public comparables. Redeemable preferred stock also includes stock received in conjunction with the 2014 sale of our Puerto Rico operations, as discussed in Note 19.

Fair Value of Debt

At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the carrying value of our debt was approximately $9.3 billion and $8.9 billion, respectively. The estimated fair value of our debt was approximately $9.7 billion and $9.2 billion at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The fair value of our fixed-rate debt is estimated by using a discounted cash flow approach and current market rates for similar types of instruments. The carrying value of our variable-rate debt approximates fair value due to the short-term nature of the interest rates. The increase in the fair value of our debt when comparing December 31, 2016 with December 31, 2015 is primarily related to $375 million of net borrowings during 2016.

Although we have determined the estimated fair value amounts using available market information and commonly accepted valuation methodologies, considerable judgment is required in interpreting market data to develop the estimates of fair value. Accordingly, our estimates are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that we, or holders of the instruments, could realize in a current market exchange. The use of different assumptions and/or estimation methodologies could have a material effect on the estimated fair values. The fair value estimates are based on Level 2 inputs of the fair value hierarchy available as of December 31, 2016 and 2015. These amounts have not been revalued since those dates, and current estimates of fair value could differ significantly from the amounts presented.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for the fair value of financial instruments (as defined), including financial assets and financial liabilities (collectively, as defined), and the measurements of those instruments as well as disclosures related to the fair value of non-financial assets and liabilities. Such disclosures about the financial instruments, assets, and liabilities would include: (1) the fair value of the required items together with their carrying amounts (as appropriate); (2) for items for which it is not practicable to estimate fair value, disclosure would include: (a) information pertinent to estimating fair value (including, carrying amount, effective interest rate, and maturity, and (b) the reasons why it is not practicable to estimate fair value; (3) significant concentrations of credit risk including: (a) information about the activity, region, or economic characteristics identifying a concentration, (b) the maximum amount of loss the entity is exposed to based on the gross fair value of the related item, (c) policy for requiring collateral or other security and information as to accessing such collateral or security, and (d) the nature and brief description of such collateral or security; (4) quantitative information about market risks and how such risks are managed; (5) for items measured on both a recurring and nonrecurring basis information regarding the inputs used to develop the fair value measurement; and (6) for items presented in the financial statement for which fair value measurement is elected: (a) information necessary to understand the reasons for the election, (b) discussion of the effect of fair value changes on earnings, (c) a description of [similar groups] items for which the election is made and the relation thereof to the balance sheet, the aggregate carrying value of items included in the balance sheet that are not eligible for the election; (7) all other required (as defined) and desired information.

+ References + Details

Acquisitions and Divestitures

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Business Combinations [Abstract]

Acquisitions and Divestitures

19. Acquisitions and Divestitures

Acquisitions

We continue to pursue the acquisition of businesses that are accretive to our Solid Waste business and enhance and expand our existing service offerings. During the year ended December 31, 2016, we acquired 30 businesses primarily related to our Solid Waste business. Total consideration, net of cash acquired, for all acquisitions was $604 million, which included $581 million in cash paid and other consideration of $23 million, primarily purchase price holdbacks. For businesses acquired in 2016, our estimated maximum obligations for contingent consideration was not material. In 2016, we also paid $4 million of contingent consideration for acquisitions completed prior to 2016. In addition, we paid $26 million of holdbacks, of which $16 million related to current year acquisitions.

Total consideration for our 2016 acquisitions was primarily allocated to $115 million of property and equipment, $212 million of other intangible assets and $280 million of goodwill. Other intangible assets included $185 million of customer and supplier relationships, $23 million of covenants not-to-compete and $4 million for a trade name. The goodwill is primarily a result of expected synergies from combining the acquired businesses with our existing operations and is tax deductible.

Southern Waste Systems/Sun Recycling (“SWS”) — On January 8, 2016, Waste Management Inc. of Florida, a wholly-owned subsidiary of WM, acquired certain operations and business assets of SWS in Southern Florida for total consideration of $525 million. The acquired business assets include residential, commercial, and industrial solid waste collection, processing/recycling and transfer operations, equipment, vehicles, real estate and customer agreements. The acquisition was funded primarily with borrowings under our $2.25 billion revolving credit facility.

Total consideration for SWS was allocated to $93 million of property and equipment, $182 million of other intangible assets and $250 million of goodwill. The acquisition accounting for this transaction was finalized in the third quarter of 2016. There were no significant measurement period adjustments recorded in 2016. The goodwill has been assigned to our Florida Area, in Tier 3, and is tax deductible.

Since the acquisition date in 2016, SWS contributed revenues of $148 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, which are included in our Consolidated Statement of Operations. The acquired operations have not materially affected our “Consolidated net income” for the year ended December 31, 2016.

Contingent consideration obligations are primarily based on achievement by the acquired businesses of certain negotiated goals, which generally include targeted financial metrics. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the balance of our estimated contingent consideration obligations was $37 million and $96 million, respectively. The decrease in this balance is primarily due to adjustments to write down our estimated obligations to fair value, including a $47 million decrease resulting from the finalization of our purchase accounting that occurred during the measurement period, see Note 21 for further discussion, and post measurement period decreases to reflect changes in the estimated achievement of the targeted financial metrics.

During the year ended December 31, 2015, we acquired 27 businesses primarily related to our Solid Waste business. Total consideration, net of cash acquired, for all acquisitions was $646 million, which included $537 million in cash paid, purchase price holdbacks of $13 million and a liability for contingent consideration with a preliminary estimated fair value of $96 million. Our estimated maximum obligations for the contingent cash payments were $126 million at the dates of acquisition. As of December 31, 2015, we had paid $13 million of these holdbacks and contingent consideration. In 2015, we also paid $4 million of contingent consideration associated with acquisitions completed prior to 2015.

Total consideration for our 2015 acquisitions was primarily allocated to $243 million of property and equipment, $145 million of other intangible assets and $325 million of goodwill. Other intangible assets included $131 million of customer and supplier relationships, $8 million of covenants not-to-compete and $6 million of trade name. The goodwill is primarily a result of expected synergies from combining the acquired businesses with our existing operations and $166 million is tax deductible and $159 million is not tax deductible.

Deffenbaugh Disposal, Inc. (“Deffenbaugh”) — On March 26, 2015, we acquired Deffenbaugh, one of the largest privately owned collection and disposal firms in the Midwest, for total consideration, net of cash acquired, of $400 million. Deffenbaugh’s assets include collection operations, transfer stations, recycling facilities and landfills. The acquisition accounting for this transaction was finalized in the first quarter of 2016. There were no significant measurement period adjustments recorded in 2016.

Total consideration for Deffenbaugh was allocated to $207 million of property and equipment, $159 million in goodwill, $100 million in other intangible assets, $50 million in other assets, including $15 million cash acquired, and $101 million in total liabilities. Goodwill has been assigned to our Areas, primarily Tier 3 and to a lesser extent Tier 1, and is not tax deductible.

The following table presents the fair value assigned to other intangible assets for the Deffenbaugh and SWS acquisitions, respectively, (amounts in millions, except for amortization periods):


	Deffenbaugh				SWS
	Amount		Weighted Average Amortization Periods (in Years)		Amount		Weighted Average Amortization Periods (in Years)
Customer relationships	$	94		15.0	$	160		10.0
Noncompete agreements		—		—		18		5.0
Trade name		6		15.0		4		10.0

Total other intangible assets subject to amortization	$	100		15.0	$	182		9.5

The following pro forma consolidated results of operations for the years ended December 31 have been prepared as if the acquisitions of Deffenbaugh and SWS occurred at January 1, 2015 (in millions, except per share amounts):


	2016		2015
Operating revenues	$	13,611	$	13,137
Net income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.		1,182		751
Basic earnings per common share		2.67		1.66
Diluted earnings per common share		2.65		1.65

During the year ended December 31, 2014, we acquired 15 businesses related to our Solid Waste business. Total consideration, net of cash acquired, for all acquisitions was $32 million, which included $26 million in cash paid and a liability for contingent consideration with a preliminary estimated fair value of $6 million. Our estimated maximum obligations for the contingent cash payments were $6 million at the dates of acquisition. As of December 31, 2014, we had paid $4 million of this contingent consideration. In 2014, we also paid $5 million of contingent consideration associated with acquisitions completed prior to 2014.

Total consideration for our 2014 acquisitions was primarily allocated to $6 million of property and equipment, $9 million of other intangible assets and $17 million of goodwill. Other intangible assets included $7 million of customer and supplier relationships and $2 million of covenants not-to-compete. The goodwill is primarily a result of expected synergies from combining the acquired businesses with our existing operations and is tax deductible.

Divestitures

In 2016 and 2015, the aggregate sales price for divestitures of operations was $2 million and $79 million and we recognized net losses of $9 million and net gains of $7 million, respectively. These divestitures were made as part of our continuous focus on improving or divesting certain non-strategic or underperforming operations. The remaining amounts reported in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows generally relate to the sale of fixed assets.

The aggregate sales price for divestitures of operations was $2.09 billion in 2014, primarily related to (i) the sale of our Wheelabrator business; (ii) the sale of our Puerto Rico operations and (iii) the sale of certain landfill and collection operations in our Eastern Canada Area, as discussed further below. We recognized net gains on these divestitures of $515 million in 2014. The remaining amounts reported in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows generally relate to the sale of fixed assets.

On December 19, 2014, we sold our Wheelabrator business to an affiliate of Energy Capital Partners and received cash proceeds of $1.95 billion, net of cash divested, subject to certain post-closing adjustments. We recognized a gain of $519 million on this sale which is included within “(Income) expense from divestitures, asset impairments and unusual items” in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. For the year ended December 31, 2015, net adjustments to this gain were immaterial on a pre-tax basis. In conjunction with the sale, the Company entered into several agreements to dispose of a minimum number of tons of waste at certain Wheelabrator facilities. See Note 11 for further discussion of these agreements.

During 2014, we also sold our Puerto Rico operations and received proceeds of $80 million, consisting of $65 million of cash and $15 million of preferred stock and recognized a loss of $25 million. In addition, we sold certain landfill and collection operations in our Eastern Canada Area and received cash proceeds of $39 million and recognized a gain of $18 million. The gain or loss on these divestitures is included within “(Income) expense from divestitures, asset impairments and unusual items” in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. The remaining proceeds from divestitures in 2014 were comprised substantially of cash.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for a business combination (or series of individually immaterial business combinations) completed during the period, including background, timing, and recognized assets and liabilities. The disclosure may include leverage buyout transactions (as applicable).

+ References

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+ Details

Variable Interest Entities	12 Months Ended
Variable Interest Entities	Dec. 31, 2016
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Variable Interest Entities	20. Variable Interest Entities Following is a description of our financial interests in both consolidated and unconsolidated variable interest entities that we consider significant: *Unconsolidated Variable Interest Entities* Low-Income Housing Properties and Refined Coal Facility Investments — We have significant financial interests in entities established to invest in and manage low-income housing properties and a refined coal facility. We support the operations of these entities in exchange for a pro-rata share of the tax credits they generate. We do not consolidate these entities as we have determined we are not the primary beneficiary of these entities as we do not have the power to individually direct the activities of these entities. Accordingly, we account for these investments under the equity method of accounting. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, our aggregate investment balance in these two entities was $84 million and $110 million, respectively. The debt balance related to our investment in low-income housing properties was $57 million and $80 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Additional information related to these investments is discussed in Note 9. Trust Funds for Final Capping, Closure, Post-Closure or Environmental Remediation Obligations — We have significant financial interests in trust funds that were created to settle certain of our final capping, closure, post-closure or environmental remediation obligations. Certain of the funds have been established for the benefit of both the Company and the host community in which we operate. We have determined that these trust funds are variable interest entities; however, we do not consolidate these trust funds as we are not the primary beneficiary of these entities because either (i) we do not have the power to direct the significant activities of the trusts or (ii) power over the trusts’ significant activities is shared. Our interests in these trusts are accounted for as investments in unconsolidated entities and receivables. These amounts are recorded in “Other receivables,” “Investments in unconsolidated entities” and long-term “Other assets” in our Consolidated Balance Sheets, as appropriate. Our investments and receivables related to these trusts had an aggregate carrying value of $93 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015. As the party with primary responsibility to fund the related final capping, closure, post-closure or environmental remediation activities for these trust funds, we are exposed to risk of loss as a result of potential changes in the fair value of the assets of the trust. We currently expect the trust funds to continue to meet the statutory requirements for which they were established. *Consolidated Variable Interest Entities* Trust Funds for Final Capping, Closure, Post-Closure or Environmental Remediation Obligations — We also have significant financial interests in trust funds that were created to settle certain of our final capping, closure, post-closure or environmental remediation obligations of which we are the sole beneficiary of these restricted balances. We have determined that these trust funds are variable interest entities and we consolidate these trust funds as we are the primary beneficiary. We account for the trust funds for which we are the sole beneficiary as long-term “Other assets” in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. We reflect our interests in the unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities held by these trusts as a component of “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).” These trusts had a fair value of $95 million and $94 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. We are also the party with primary responsibility to fund the related final capping, closure, post-closure or environmental remediation activities for these trust funds and we are exposed to risk of loss as a result of potential changes in the fair value of the assets of the trust. We currently expect the trust funds to continue to meet the statutory requirements for which they were established. Waste-to-Energy LLCs — In June 2000, two limited liability companies were established to purchase interests in existing leveraged lease financings at three waste-to-energy facilities that we leased, operated and maintained. We initially owned a 0.5% interest in one of the LLCs (“LLC I”) and a 0.25% interest in the second LLC (“LLC II”). John Hancock Life Insurance Company (“Hancock”) owned 99.5% of LLC I and 99.75% of LLC II was owned by LLC I and the CIT Group (“CIT”). We determined that we were the primary beneficiary of the LLCs and consolidated these entities in our Consolidated Financial Statements because (i) all of the equity owners of the LLCs were considered related parties for purposes of applying this accounting guidance; (ii) the equity owners shared power over the significant activities of the LLCs and (iii) we were the entity within the related party group whose activities were most closely associated with the LLCs. During the year ended December 31, 2014 we recognized a reduction in earnings of $39 million for Hancock’s and CIT’s noncontrolling interests in the LLCs’ earnings, which was included in our consolidated net income. The LLCs’ earnings related to the rental income generated from leasing the facilities to our subsidiaries, reduced by depreciation expense. The LLCs’ rental income was eliminated in WM’s consolidation. In December 2014, we purchased the noncontrolling interests in the LLCs from Hancock and CIT. The LLCs were then subsequently sold as part of the divestiture of our Wheelabrator business. See Note 19 for further discussion of the sale of our Wheelabrator business.

Segment and Related Information

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Segment and Related Information

21. Segment and Related Information

We evaluate, oversee and manage the financial performance of our Solid Waste subsidiaries through our 17 Areas. The 17 Areas constitute our operating segments and none of the Areas individually meet the quantitative criteria to be a separate reportable segment. We have evaluated the aggregation criteria and concluded that, based on the similarities between our Areas, including the fact that our Solid Waste business is homogenous across geographies with the same services offered across the Areas, aggregation of our Areas is appropriate for purposes of presenting our reportable segments. Accordingly, we have aggregated our 17 Areas into three tiers that we believe have similar economic characteristics and future prospects based in large part on a review of the Areas’ income from operations margins. The economic variations experienced by our Areas is attributable to a variety of factors, including regulatory environment of the Area; economic environment of the Area, including level of commercial and industrial activity; population density; service offering mix and disposal logistics, with no one factor being singularly determinative of an Area’s current or future economic performance.

In 2015, we analyzed the Areas’ income from operations margins for purposes of segment reporting and realigned our Solid Waste tiers to reflect recent changes in their relative economic characteristics and prospects. These changes were the result of various factors including acquisitions, divestitures, business mix and the economic climate of various geographies. In 2016, there were no realignments of our Solid Waste tiers.

Tier 1 is comprised of our operations across the Southern United States, with the exception of Southern California and the Florida peninsula and also includes the New England states, the tri-state area of Michigan, Indiana and Ohio and Western Canada. Tier 2 includes Southern California, Eastern Canada, Wisconsin, Minnesota and a portion of the lower Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. Tier 3 encompasses all the remaining operations including the Pacific Northwest and Northern California, the majority of the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, the Florida peninsula, Illinois and Missouri.

Our Wheelabrator business, which provides waste-to-energy services and manages waste-to-energy facilities and independent power production plants, was a separate reportable segment until the sale of the business in 2014, as it met the quantitative disclosure thresholds.

The operating segments not evaluated and overseen through the 17 Areas are presented herein as “Other” as these operating segments do not meet the criteria to be aggregated with other operating segments and do not meet the quantitative criteria to be separately reported.

Summarized financial information concerning our reportable segments as of and for the years ended December 31 is shown in the following table (in millions):


	Gross Operating Revenues		Intercompany Operating Revenues(c)			Net Operating Revenues		Income from Operations (d),(e)			Depreciation and Amortization		Capital Expenditures (f)		Total Assets (g),(h)
2016
Solid Waste:
Tier 1	$	5,241	$	(911	)	$	4,330	$	1,430		$	424	$	452	$	6,188
Tier 2		3,391		(620	)		2,771		604			280		295		5,488
Tier 3		5,336		(921	)		4,415		912			440		451		6,571
Other(a)		2,278		(185	)		2,093		(100	)		101		104		1,489

		16,246		(2,637	)		13,609		2,846			1,245		1,302		19,736
Corporate and Other(b)		—		—			—		(550	)		56		45		1,401

Total	$	16,246	$	(2,637	)	$	13,609	$	2,296		$	1,301	$	1,347	$	21,137

2015
Solid Waste:
Tier 1	$	5,083	$	(856	)	$	4,227	$	1,290		$	428	$	382	$	6,098
Tier 2		3,304		(613	)		2,691		629			280		251		5,394
Tier 3		4,898		(813	)		4,085		808			379		412		5,930
Other(a)		2,065		(107	)		1,958		(160	)		94		128		1,701

		15,350		(2,389	)		12,961		2,567			1,181		1,173		19,123
Corporate and Other(b)		—		—			—		(522	)		64		56		1,783

Total	$	15,350	$	(2,389	)	$	12,961	$	2,045		$	1,245	$	1,229	$	20,906

2014
Solid Waste:
Tier 1	$	5,117	$	(834	)	$	4,283	$	1,301		$	408	$	388	$	6,150
Tier 2		3,516		(663	)		2,853		711			287		223		5,648
Tier 3		4,816		(786	)		4,030		787			361		351		5,449
Other(a)		2,191		(76	)		2,115		(400	)		128		134		1,791
Wheelabrator		817		(102	)		715		669			37		11		—

		16,457		(2,461	)		13,996		3,068			1,221		1,107		19,038
Corporate and Other(b)		—		—			—		(769	)		71		74		2,805

Total	$	16,457	$	(2,461	)	$	13,996	$	2,299		$	1,292	$	1,181	$	21,843

(a)

Our “Other” net operating revenues and “Other” income from operations include (i) our Strategic Business Solutions (“WMSBS”) organization; (ii) those elements of our landfill gas-to-energy operations and third-party subcontract and administration revenues managed by our Energy and Environmental Services and WM Renewable Energy organizations that are not included in the operations of our reportable segments; (iii) our recycling brokerage services and (iv) our expanded service offerings and solutions, such as portable self-storage and long distance moving services, fluorescent lamp recycling and interests we hold in oil and gas producing properties. In addition, our “Other” income from operations reflects the results of non-operating entities that provide financial assurance and self-insurance support for our Solid Waste business.

(b)

Corporate operating results reflect certain costs incurred for various support services that are not allocated to our reportable segments. These support services include, among other things, treasury, legal, information technology, tax, insurance, centralized service center processes, other administrative functions and the maintenance of our closed landfills. Income from operations for “Corporate and other” also includes costs associated with our long-term incentive program and any administrative expenses or revisions to our estimated obligations associated with divested operations.

(c)	Intercompany operating revenues reflect each segment’s total intercompany sales, including intercompany sales within a segment and between segments. Transactions within and between segments are generally made on a basis intended to reflect the market value of the service.

(d)	For those items included in the determination of income from operations, the accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in Note 3.

(e)

The income from operations provided by our Solid Waste business is generally indicative of the margins provided by our collection, landfill, transfer and recycling lines of business. From time to time, the operating results of our reportable segments are significantly affected by certain transactions or events that management believes are not indicative or representative of our results. In 2014, we recognized a $519 million gain on the sale of our Wheelabrator business. Refer to Notes 12 and 13 for explanations of certain other transactions and events affecting our operating results.

(f)	Includes non-cash items. Capital expenditures are reported in our reportable segments at the time they are recorded within the segments’ property and equipment balances and, therefore, may include amounts that have been accrued but not yet paid.

(g)	The reconciliation of total assets reported above to “Total assets” in the Consolidated Balance Sheets is as follows (in millions):


	December 31,
	2016			2015			2014
Total assets, as reported above	$	21,137		$	20,906		$	21,843
Elimination of intercompany investments and advances		(278	)		(539	)		(591	)

Total assets, per Consolidated Balance Sheet	$	20,859		$	20,367		$	21,252

(h)

Goodwill is included within each segment’s total assets. For segment reporting purposes, our material recovery facilities are included as a component of their respective Areas and our recycling brokerage services is included as part of our “Other” operations. The goodwill associated with our acquisition of Deffenbaugh in 2015 has been assigned to our Areas, primarily Tier 3 and to a lesser extent Tier 1. The goodwill associated with our acquisition of SWS in 2016 has been assigned to our Florida Area, in Tier 3. Other adjustments in 2016 relate to the finalization of purchase accounting for acquisitions executed in 2015. These adjustments primarily resulted in a decrease in the related contingent consideration liability. See Note 19 for additional information on our acquisitions. The following table presents changes in goodwill during 2015 and 2016 by reportable segment (in millions):


	Solid Waste
	Tier 1			Tier 2			Tier 3			Other			Total
Balance, December 31, 2014	$	2,178		$	1,795		$	1,662		$	105		$	5,740
Acquired goodwill		27			42			151			105			325
Divested goodwill		—			(6	)		(1	)		—			(7	)
Foreign currency translation		(15	)		(59	)		—			—			(74	)

Balance, December 31, 2015	$	2,190		$	1,772		$	1,812		$	210		$	5,984
Acquired goodwill		11			12			254			3			280
Divested goodwill		—			—			(1	)		—			(1	)
Impairments		—			—			—			(12	)		(12	)
Foreign currency translation		2			10			—			—			12
Other adjustments		—			(2	)		—			(46	)		(48	)

Balance, December 31, 2016	$	2,203		$	1,792		$	2,065		$	155		$	6,215

The mix of operating revenues from our major lines of business for the years ended December 31 are as follows (in millions):


	2016			2015			2014
Commercial	$	3,480		$	3,332		$	3,393
Residential		2,487			2,499			2,543
Industrial		2,412			2,252			2,231
Other		423			356			340

Total collection		8,802			8,439			8,507
Landfill		3,110			2,919			2,849
Transfer		1,512			1,377			1,353
Recycling		1,221			1,163			1,370
Other(a)		1,601			1,452			1,561
Wheelabrator		—			—			817
Intercompany(b)		(2,637	)		(2,389	)		(2,461	)

Total	$	13,609		$	12,961		$	13,996

(a)

The “Other” line of business includes (i) our WMSBS organization; (ii) our landfill gas-to-energy operations; (iii) certain services within our Energy and Environmental Services organization, including our construction and remediation services and our services associated with the disposal of fly ash and (iv) our expanded service offerings and solutions, such as portable self-storage and long distance moving services, and interests we hold in oil and gas producing properties.

(b)	Intercompany revenues between lines of business are eliminated within the Consolidated Financial Statements included herein.

Net operating revenues relating to operations in the United States and Puerto Rico, and Canada for the years ended December 31 are as follows (in millions):


	2016		2015		2014
United States and Puerto Rico(a)	$	12,915	$	12,196	$	13,064
Canada		694		765		932

Total	$	13,609	$	12,961	$	13,996

(a)	We sold our Puerto Rico operations in 2014. Refer to Note 19 for additional information.

Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization, relating to operations in the United States and Puerto Rico, and Canada for the years ended December 31 are as follows (in millions):


	2016		2015		2014
United States and Puerto Rico(a)	$	10,040	$	9,778	$	9,586
Canada		910		887		1,071

Total	$	10,950	$	10,665	$	10,657

(a)	We sold our Puerto Rico operations in 2014. Refer to Note 19 for additional information.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for reporting segments including data and tables. Reportable segments include those that meet any of the following quantitative thresholds a) it's reported revenue, including sales to external customers and intersegment sales or transfers is 10 percent or more of the combined revenue, internal and external, of all operating segments b) the absolute amount of its reported profit or loss is 10 percent or more of the greater, in absolute amount of 1) the combined reported profit of all operating segments that did not report a loss or 2) the combined reported loss of all operating segments that did report a loss c) its assets are 10 percent or more of the combined assets of all operating segments.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
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Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 14: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
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+ Details

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

22. Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

The following table summarizes the unaudited quarterly results of operations for 2016 and 2015 (in millions, except per share amounts):


	First Quarter			Second Quarter		Third Quarter		Fourth Quarter
2016
Operating revenues	$	3,176		$	3,425	$	3,548	$	3,460
Income from operations		508			611		560		617
Consolidated net income		256			286		304		334
Net income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.		258			287		302		335
Basic earnings per common share		0.58			0.65		0.68		0.76
Diluted earnings per common share		0.58			0.64		0.68		0.75

2015
Operating revenues	$	3,040		$	3,315	$	3,360	$	3,246
Income from operations		440			502		601		502
Consolidated net income (loss)		(131	)		273		337		273
Net income (loss) attributable to Waste Management, Inc.		(129	)		274		335		273
Basic earnings (loss) per common share		(0.28	)		0.60		0.75		0.61
Diluted earnings (loss) per common share		(0.28	)		0.60		0.74		0.61

Basic and diluted earnings per common share for each of the quarters presented above is based on the respective weighted average number of common and dilutive potential common shares outstanding for each quarter and the sum of the quarters may not necessarily be equal to the full year basic and diluted earnings per common share amounts.

Our operating revenues tend to be somewhat higher in the summer months, primarily due to the higher volume of construction and demolition waste. The volumes of industrial and residential waste in certain regions where we operate also tend to increase during the summer months. Our second and third quarter revenues and results of operations typically reflect these seasonal trends. Additionally, from time to time, our operating results are significantly affected by certain transactions or events that management believes are not indicative or representative of our results. The following significant items have affected the comparison of our operating results during the periods indicated:

Second Quarter 2016

•

The recognition of pre-tax charges of $45 million, primarily related to the impairment of minority-owned, cost method investments in waste diversion technology companies. These impairments were substantially nondeductible for income taxes and had a negative impact of $0.10 on our diluted earnings per share.

Third Quarter 2016

•

The recognition of pre-tax charges of $106 million consisting primarily of (i) a $43 million impairment due to a loss of expected volumes for a landfill; (ii) a $42 million charge to adjust our subsidiary’s estimated environmental remediation liability related to a closed site in Harris County, Texas; (iii) a $10 million goodwill impairment charge related to our LampTracker^® reporting unit and (iv) an $8 million loss on the sale of a majority-owned organics company. These charges had a negative impact of $0.16 on our diluted earnings per share.

First Quarter 2015

•

The recognition of a pre-tax loss of $550 million associated with the early extinguishment of almost $2 billion of our high-coupon senior notes through make-whole redemption and cash tender offers. These charges had a negative impact of $0.74 on our diluted loss per share.

•

The recognition of pre-tax charges of $14 million associated with divestitures, impairments and restructuring, which include a $7 million net loss associated with the sale of our Wheelabrator business in December 2014 and a $5 million impairment charge related to a landfill in our Western Canada Area. These charges had a negative impact of $0.03 on our diluted loss per share.

Second Quarter 2015

•

The recognition of a $55 million charge associated with the withdrawal from certain underfunded Multiemployer Pension Plans had a negative impact of $0.07 on our diluted earnings per share.

•

The recognition of net pre-tax losses of $6 million primarily related to the impairment of various recycling assets and certain adjustments associated with the sale of our Wheelabrator business. Combined, these charges had a favorable after-tax impact of $0.01 on our diluted earnings per share.

Fourth Quarter 2015

•

The recognition of $70 million of pre-tax charges primarily to impair our oil and gas producing properties, which negatively affected our diluted earnings per share by $0.09.

•

The recognition of $8 million of pre-tax restructuring charges and a $4 million other-than-temporary decline in the value of a minority-owned, cost method investment in a waste diversion technology company. These charges had a negative impact of $0.02 on our diluted earnings per share.

Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]

Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements

23. Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements

WM Holdings has fully and unconditionally guaranteed all of WM’s senior indebtedness. WM has fully and unconditionally guaranteed all of WM Holdings’ senior indebtedness. None of WM’s other subsidiaries have guaranteed any of WM’s or WM Holdings’ debt. As a result of these guarantee arrangements, we are required to present the following condensed consolidating financial information (in millions):

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEETS

December 31, 2016


	WM			WM Holdings		Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries			Eliminations			Consolidated
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	—		$	—	$	32		$	—		$	32
Other current assets		5			5		2,334			—			2,344

		5			5		2,366			—			2,376
Property and equipment, net		—			—		10,950			—			10,950
Investments in affiliates		19,924			20,331		—			(40,255	)		—
Advances to affiliates(a)		—			—		13,000			(13,000	)		—
Other assets		14			30		7,489			—			7,533

Total assets	$	19,943		$	20,366	$	33,805		$	(53,255	)	$	20,859


LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Current portion of long-term debt	$	269		$	—	$	148		$	—		$	417
Accounts payable and other current liabilities		81			9		2,287			—			2,377

		350			9		2,435			—			2,794
Long-term debt, less current portion(a)		6,229			304		2,360			—			8,893
Due to affiliates(a)		13,350			128		5,299			(18,777	)		—
Other liabilities		16			—		3,836			—			3,852

Total liabilities		19,945			441		13,930			(18,777	)		15,539
Equity:
Stockholders’ equity		5,297			19,925		20,330			(40,255	)		5,297
Advances to affiliates		(5,299	)		—		(478	)		5,777			—
Noncontrolling interests		—			—		23			—			23

		(2	)		19,925		19,875			(34,478	)		5,320

Total liabilities and equity	$	19,943		$	20,366	$	33,805		$	(53,255	)	$	20,859

(a)

In conjunction with the preparation of our June 30, 2016 Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet, we identified and corrected the presentation of $126 million of tax-exempt bonds previously reported in Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries’ rather than WM’s “Long-term debt, less current portion,” which had corresponding impacts on “Advances to affiliates” and “Due to affiliates.” This immaterial correction has been reflected in our 2016 Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEETS (Continued)

December 31, 2015


	WM			WM Holdings		Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries			Eliminations			Consolidated
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	—		$	—	$	39		$	—		$	39
Other current assets		3			6		2,297			—			2,306

		3			6		2,336			—			2,345
Property and equipment, net		—			—		10,665			—			10,665
Investments in affiliates(b)		18,557			18,925		—			(37,482	)		—
Advances to affiliates		—			—		12,113			(12,113	)		—
Other assets		23			29		7,305			—			7,357

Total assets	$	18,583		$	18,960	$	32,419		$	(49,595	)	$	20,367


LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Current portion of long-term debt	$	41		$	—	$	212		$	—		$	253
Accounts payable and other current liabilities		83			9		2,165			—			2,257

		124			9		2,377			—			2,510
Long-term debt, less current portion		5,801			304		2,571			—			8,676
Due to affiliates(b)		12,588			76		5,299			(17,963	)		—
Other liabilities		24			—		3,790			—			3,814

Total liabilities		18,537			389		14,037			(17,963	)		15,000
Equity:
Stockholders’ equity		5,345			18,571		18,911			(37,482	)		5,345
Advances to affiliates(b)		(5,299	)		—		(551	)		5,850			—
Noncontrolling interests		—			—		22			—			22

		46			18,571		18,382			(31,632	)		5,367

Total liabilities and equity	$	18,583		$	18,960	$	32,419		$	(49,595	)	$	20,367

(b)

In conjunction with the preparation of our September 30, 2016 Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet, we identified $5.9 billion of intercompany loans between WM and Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries previously included in “Due to affiliates” and “Advances to affiliates” that based on intent are not expected to be collected, and as such are being presented as part of “Equity” in WM’s and Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries’ balance sheet. Accordingly, the 2015 Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet included herein has been revised to reflect this presentation.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS


	WM			WM Holdings			Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries			Eliminations			Consolidated
Year Ended December 31, 2016
Operating revenues	$	—		$	—		$	13,609		$	—		$	13,609
Costs and expenses		—			—			11,313			—			11,313

Income from operations		—			—			2,296			—			2,296

Other income (expense):
Interest expense, net		(303	)		(20	)		(53	)		—			(376	)
Loss on early extinguishment of debt		(1	)		—			(3	)		—			(4	)
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries, net of tax provision		1,367			1,381			—			(2,748	)		—
Other, net		—			—			(94	)		—			(94	)

		1,063			1,361			(150	)		(2,748	)		(474	)

Income before income taxes		1,063			1,361			2,146			(2,748	)		1,822
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes		(119	)		(8	)		769			—			642

Consolidated net income		1,182			1,369			1,377			(2,748	)		1,180
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests		—			—			(2	)		—			(2	)

Net income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	$	1,182		$	1,369		$	1,379		$	(2,748	)	$	1,182

Year Ended December 31, 2015
Operating revenues	$	—		$	—		$	12,961		$	—		$	12,961
Costs and expenses		—			(1	)		10,917			—			10,916

Income from operations		—			1			2,044			—			2,045

Other income (expense):
Interest expense, net		(298	)		(22	)		(65	)		—			(385	)
Loss on early extinguishment of debt		(500	)		(52	)		(3	)		—			(555	)
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries, net of tax provision		1,245			1,289			—			(2,534	)		—
Other, net		—			—			(45	)		—			(45	)

		447			1,215			(113	)		(2,534	)		(985	)

Income before income taxes		447			1,216			1,931			(2,534	)		1,060
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes		(306	)		(29	)		643			—			308

Consolidated net income		753			1,245			1,288			(2,534	)		752
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests		—			—			(1	)		—			(1	)

Net income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	$	753		$	1,245		$	1,289		$	(2,534	)	$	753

Year Ended December 31, 2014
Operating revenues	$	—		$	—		$	13,996		$	—		$	13,996
Costs and expenses		—			(459	)		12,156			—			11,697

Income from operations		—			459			1,840			—			2,299

Other income (expense):
Interest expense, net		(351	)		(31	)		(84	)		—			(466	)
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries, net of tax provision		1,510			1,070			—			(2,580	)		—
Other, net		—			—			(82	)		—			(82	)

		1,159			1,039			(166	)		(2,580	)		(548	)

Income before income taxes		1,159			1,498			1,674			(2,580	)		1,751
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes		(139	)		(12	)		564			—			413

Consolidated net income		1,298			1,510			1,110			(2,580	)		1,338
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests		—			—			40			—			40

Net income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	$	1,298		$	1,510		$	1,070		$	(2,580	)	$	1,298

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME


	WM		WM Holdings		Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries			Eliminations			Consolidated
Year Ended December 31, 2016
Comprehensive income	$	1,189	$	1,369	$	1,417		$	(2,748	)	$	1,227
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests		—		—		(2	)		—			(2	)

Comprehensive income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	$	1,189	$	1,369	$	1,419		$	(2,748	)	$	1,229

Year Ended December 31, 2015
Comprehensive income	$	762	$	1,245	$	1,129		$	(2,534	)	$	602
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests		—		—		(1	)		—			(1	)

Comprehensive income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	$	762	$	1,245	$	1,130		$	(2,534	)	$	603

Year Ended December 31, 2014
Comprehensive income	$	1,300	$	1,510	$	977		$	(2,580	)	$	1,207
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests		—		—		40			—			40

Comprehensive income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	$	1,300	$	1,510	$	937		$	(2,580	)	$	1,167

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS


	WM(c)			WM Holdings(c)			Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries(c)			Eliminations			Consolidated
Year Ended December 31, 2016
Cash flows from operating activities:
Consolidated net income	$	1,182		$	1,369		$	1,377		$	(2,748	)	$	1,180
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries, net of tax provision		(1,367	)		(1,381	)		—			2,748			—
Other adjustments		185			12			1,583			—			1,780

Net cash provided by operating activities		—			—			2,960			—			2,960

Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired		—			—			(611	)		—			(611	)
Capital expenditures		—			—			(1,339	)		—			(1,339	)
Proceeds from divestitures of businesses and other assets (net of cash divested)		—			—			43			—			43
Net receipts from restricted trust and escrow accounts and other, net		—			—			(25	)		—			(25	)

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		—			—			(1,932	)		—			(1,932	)

Cash flows from financing activities:
New borrowings		—			—			3,057			—			3,057
Debt repayments		—			—			(2,682	)		—			(2,682	)
Premiums paid on early extinguishment of debt		—			—			(2	)		—			(2	)
Common stock repurchase program		—			—			(725	)		—			(725	)
Cash dividends		—			—			(726	)		—			(726	)
Exercise of common stock options		—			—			63			—			63
Other, net		—			—			(20	)		—			(20	)
(Increase) decrease in intercompany and investments, net		—			—			—			—			—

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		—			—			(1,035	)		—			(1,035	)

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents		—			—			—			—			—

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		—			—			(7	)		—			(7	)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year		—			—			39			—			39

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$	—		$	—		$	32		$	—		$	32

(c)	Cash receipts and payments of WM and WM Holdings are transacted by Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries.


	WM(d)			WM Holdings(d)			Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries(d)			Eliminations			Consolidated
Year Ended December 31, 2015
Cash flows from operating activities:
Consolidated net income	$	753		$	1,245		$	1,288		$	(2,534	)	$	752
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries, net of tax provision		(1,245	)		(1,289	)		—			2,534			—
Other adjustments		492			44			1,210			—			1,746

Net cash provided by operating activities		—			—			2,498			—			2,498

Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired		—			—			(554	)		—			(554	)
Capital expenditures		—			—			(1,233	)		—			(1,233	)
Proceeds from divestitures of businesses and other assets (net of cash divested)		—			—			145			—			145
Net receipts from restricted trust and escrow accounts and other, net		—			—			34			—			34

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		—			—			(1,608	)		—			(1,608	)

Cash flows from financing activities:
New borrowings		—			—			2,337			—			2,337
Debt repayments		—			—			(2,764	)		—			(2,764	)
Premiums paid on early extinguishment of debt		—			—			(555	)		—			(555	)
Common stock repurchase program		—			—			(600	)		—			(600	)
Cash dividends		—			—			(695	)		—			(695	)
Exercise of common stock options		—			—			77			—			77
Other, net		—			—			45			—			45
(Increase) decrease in intercompany and investments, net		(1,235	)		—			1,235			—			—

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		(1,235	)		—			(920	)		—			(2,155	)

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents		—			—			(3	)		—			(3	)

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		(1,235	)		—			(33	)		—			(1,268	)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year		1,235			—			72			—			1,307

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$	—		$	—		$	39		$	—		$	39

(d)	Cash receipts and payments of WM and WM Holdings are transacted by Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries. We have revised the prior year presentation to reflect all relevant cash flow activities in the Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries column.


	WM(e)			WM Holdings(e)			Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries(e)			Eliminations			Consolidated
Year Ended December 31, 2014
Cash flows from operating activities:
Consolidated net income	$	1,298		$	1,510		$	1,110		$	(2,580	)	$	1,338
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries, net of tax provision		(1,510	)		(1,070	)		—			2,580			—
Other adjustments		212			(440	)		1,221			—			993

Net cash provided by operating activities		—			—			2,331			—			2,331

Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired		—			—			(35	)		—			(35	)
Capital expenditures		—			—			(1,151	)		—			(1,151	)
Proceeds from divestitures of businesses and other assets (net of cash divested)		—			—			2,253			—			2,253
Net receipts from restricted trust and escrow accounts and other, net		—			—			(72	)		—			(72	)

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		—			—			995			—			995

Cash flows from financing activities:
New borrowings		—			—			2,817			—			2,817
Debt repayments		—			—			(3,568	)		—			(3,568	)
Common stock repurchase program		—			—			(600	)		—			(600	)
Cash dividends		—			—			(693	)		—			(693	)
Exercise of common stock options		—			—			93			—			93
Other, net		—			—			(121	)		—			(121	)
(Increase) decrease in intercompany and investments, net		1,235			—			(1,235	)		—			—

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		1,235			—			(3,307	)		—			(2,072	)

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents		—			—			(5	)		—			(5	)

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		1,235			—			14			—			1,249
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year		—			—			58			—			58

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$	1,235		$	—		$	72		$	—		$	1,307

(e)	Cash receipts and payments of WM and WM Holdings are transacted by Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries. We have revised the prior year presentation to reflect all relevant cash flow activities in the Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries column.

New Accounting Standards Pending Adoption (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
New Accounting Standards Pending Adoption (Unaudited)	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract]
New Accounting Standards Pending Adoption (Unaudited)	24. New Accounting Standards Pending Adoption (Unaudited) Income Taxes — In October 2016, the FASB issued amended authoritative guidance associated with the timing of recognition of income taxes for intra-entity transfers of assets other than inventory. The amended guidance requires the recognition of income taxes when the transfer of the asset occurs, which replaces current U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”) that defers the recognition of income taxes until the transferred asset is sold to a third party or otherwise recovered through use. The amended guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018, with early adoption permitted. We are in the process of assessing the provisions of this amended guidance; however, we currently do not expect that the adoption of this amended guidance will have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Statement of Cash Flows — In August 2016, the FASB issued amended authoritative guidance associated with the classification of certain cash receipts and cash payments in the statement of cash flows. In November 2016, the FASB issued additional guidance on the presentation of restricted cash and cash equivalents in the statement of cash flows. The objective of both amendments was to reduce existing diversity in practice. The amended guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018, with early adoption permitted. We are in the process of assessing the provisions of this amended guidance; however, we currently do not expect that the adoption of this amended guidance will have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Financial Instrument Credit Losses — In June 2016, the FASB issued amended authoritative guidance associated with the measurement of credit losses on financial instruments. The amended guidance replaces the current incurred loss impairment methodology of recognizing credit losses when a loss is probable, with a methodology that reflects expected credit losses and requires consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable information to assess credit loss estimates. The amended guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2020, with early adoption permitted beginning January 1, 2019. We are assessing the provisions of the amended guidance and evaluating the timing and impact on our consolidated financial statements. Stock Compensation — In March 2016, the FASB issued amended authoritative guidance associated with stock-based compensation as part of its simplification initiative to reduce the cost and complexity of compliance with GAAP, while maintaining or improving the usefulness of the information provided. The amended guidance changes both the accounting and financial reporting for certain income tax impacts of stock-based compensation. All excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies will be required to be recognized as an income tax benefit or provision rather than as a component of equity. The guidance also provides for changes in the calculation of forfeitures related to the expense of stock-based compensation. The amended guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2017. The adoption of this amended guidance will not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Leases — In February 2016, the FASB issued amended authoritative guidance associated with lease accounting. The amended guidance requires the recognition of lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet for those leases with terms in excess of 12 months and currently classified as operating leases. The disclosure of key information about leasing arrangements will also be required. The amended guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2019, with early adoption permitted. We are assessing the provisions of the amended guidance and evaluating the timing and impact on our consolidated financial statements and disclosures. Financial Instruments — In January 2016, the FASB issued amended authoritative guidance associated with the recognition and measurement of financial assets and liabilities. The amended guidance will require certain equity investments that are not consolidated to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income rather than as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income. The amended guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018, with early adoption permitted. We are assessing the provisions of the amended guidance and evaluating the timing and impact on our consolidated financial statements. Revenue Recognition — In May 2014, the FASB issued amended authoritative guidance associated with revenue recognition. The amended guidance requires companies to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. Additionally, the amendments will require enhanced qualitative and quantitative disclosures regarding customer contracts. The amended guidance associated with revenue recognition is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018. The amended guidance may be applied retrospectively for all periods presented (“full retrospective method”) or retrospectively with the cumulative effect of initially applying the amended guidance recognized at the date of initial adoption (“modified retrospective method”). To assess the impact of the standard, we utilized internal resources to lead the implementation effort and supplemented them with external resources. Our internal resources read the amended guidance, attended trainings and consulted with non-authoritative groups to assist with interpretation of the amended guidance. Surveys were sent to and returned by all operating segments to assess the potential impact of the amended guidance and to tailor specific procedures to evaluate the potential impact. Based on the results of these surveys, we judgmentally selected a sample of contracts based on size and specifically identified contract traits that could be accounted for differently under the amended guidance. We also selected a representative sample of contracts to corroborate the survey results. We have completed our preliminary review of all contracts and are in the process of compiling and summarizing the results to determine whether additional review and analysis is necessary. Based on our work to date, we believe we have identified all material contract types and costs that may be impacted by this amended guidance. We expect to quantify and disclose the expected impact, if any, of adopting this amended guidance in the third quarter Form 10-Q. While we are still evaluating the impact of the amended guidance, we currently do not expect it to have a material impact on operating revenues. Upon adoption of the amended guidance, we anticipate recognizing an asset from the capitalization of sales incentives as contract acquisitions costs. Under the amended guidance, sales incentives will be capitalized and amortized over the expected life of the customer relationship. Currently, the Company expenses approximately $65 million in sales incentives annually. As noted above, we are still evaluating other possible impacts on our consolidated financial statements, including potential changes in the classification of certain revenue streams currently reported on a gross basis and on our disclosures. The Company is also currently planning to adopt the amended guidance using the modified retrospective method as of January 1, 2018.

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

WASTE MANAGEMENT, INC.

SCHEDULE II — VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

(In Millions)


	Balance Beginning of Year		Charged to Income		Accounts Written Off/Use of Reserve			Balance End of Year
2014 — Reserves for doubtful accounts(a)	$	34	$	42	$	(45	)	$	31
2015 — Reserves for doubtful accounts(a)	$	31	$	36	$	(42	)	$	25
2016 — Reserves for doubtful accounts(a)	$	25	$	42	$	(43	)	$	24
2014 — Merger and restructuring accruals(b)	$	14	$	82	$	(51	)	$	45
2015 — Merger and restructuring accruals(b)	$	45	$	15	$	(47	)	$	13
2016 — Merger and restructuring accruals(b)	$	13	$	4	$	(10	)	$	7

(a)	Includes reserves for doubtful accounts receivable and notes receivable.

(b)	Included in “Accrued liabilities” in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. These accruals represent employee severance and benefit costs and transitional costs.

Adoption of New Accounting Standards and Reclassifications (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract]

Adoption of New Accounting Standards

Adoption of New Accounting Standards

Debt Issuance Costs — In April 2015, and as subsequently amended, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued amended authoritative guidance associated with debt issuance costs which were previously presented as assets related to recognized debt liabilities. The amended guidance requires that debt issuance costs, other than those costs related to line of credit arrangements, be presented on the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the related debt liability, which is similar to the presentation for debt discounts and premiums. This guidance was effective for the Company on January 1, 2016. The Company’s adoption of this guidance was applied retrospectively and resulted in a reclassification of $52 million of such costs in our Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2015.

Consolidation — In February 2015, the FASB issued amended authoritative guidance associated with consolidation. The amended guidance makes changes to existing consolidation requirements associated with the analysis a reporting entity must perform to determine whether it should consolidate certain types of legal entities, including limited partnerships and variable interest entities. The guidance was effective for the Company on January 1, 2016. The Company’s adoption of this guidance did not impact our consolidated financial statements.

Reclassifications

Reclassifications

When necessary, reclassifications have been made to our prior period financial information in order to conform to the current year presentation.

Principles of Consolidation

Principles of Consolidation

Estimates and Assumptions

Estimates and Assumptions

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Concentrations of Credit Risk

Concentrations of Credit Risk

Accounts and Other Receivables

Accounts and Other Receivables

Parts and Supplies

Parts and Supplies

Landfill Accounting

Landfill Accounting

Final Capping, Closure and Post-Closure Costs — Following is a description of our asset retirement activities and our related accounting:

•

We apply the following guidelines in determining a landfill’s remaining permitted and expansion airspace:

•

Personnel are actively working on the expansion of an existing landfill, including efforts to obtain land use and local, state or provincial approvals;

•

We have a legal right to use or obtain land to be included in the expansion plan;

•

There are no significant known technical, legal, community, business, or political restrictions or similar issues that could negatively affect the success of such expansion; and

•

Financial analysis has been completed based on conceptual design, and the results demonstrate that the expansion meets Company criteria for investment.

Environmental Remediation Liabilities

Environmental Remediation Liabilities

•

Management’s judgment and experience in remediating our own and unrelated parties’ sites;

•

Information available from regulatory agencies as to costs of remediation;

•

The number, financial resources and relative degree of responsibility of other PRPs who may be liable for remediation of a specific site; and

•

The typical allocation of costs among PRPs, unless the actual allocation has been determined.


	Years Ended December 31,
	2016			2015			2014
Charge (reduction) to operating expenses	$	(2	)	$	(2	)	$	10
Risk-free discount rate applied to environmental remediation liabilities and recovery assets		2.5	%		2.25	%		2.00	%

Property and Equipment (exclusive of landfills, discussed above)

Property and Equipment (exclusive of landfills, discussed above)

The estimated useful lives for significant property and equipment categories are as follows (in years):


	Useful Lives
Vehicles — excluding rail haul cars		3 to 10
Vehicles — rail haul cars		10 to 20
Machinery and equipment — including containers		3 to 30
Buildings and improvements		5 to 40
Furniture, fixtures and office equipment		3 to 10

Leases

Leases

Acquisitions

Acquisitions

We generally recognize assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations, including contingent assets and liabilities, based on fair value estimates as of the date of acquisition.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Long-Lived Asset Impairments

Long-Lived Asset Impairments

Goodwill — At least annually, and more frequently if warranted, we assess the goodwill of our reporting units for impairment using Level 3 inputs.

Refer to Note 13 for information related to impairments recognized during the reported periods.

Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets Other Than Goodwill — At least annually, and more frequently if warranted, we assess indefinite-lived intangible assets other than goodwill for impairment.

Restricted Trust and Escrow Accounts

Restricted Trust and Escrow Accounts

Investments in Unconsolidated Entities

Investments in Unconsolidated Entities


	2016		2015
Equity method investments	$	173	$	186
Cost method investments		147		174

Investments in unconsolidated entities	$	320	$	360

Foreign Currency

Foreign Currency

Derivative Financial Instruments

Derivative Financial Instruments

•

Insured and Self-Insured Claims

Insured and Self-Insured Claims

Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition

Capitalized Interest

Capitalized Interest

Income Taxes

Income Taxes

Contingent Liabilities

Contingent Liabilities

Supplemental Cash Flow Information

Supplemental Cash Flow Information


Cash paid during the years ended December 31 (in millions):	2016		2015		2014
Interest, net of capitalized interest and periodic settlements from interest rate swap agreements	$	375	$	384	$	461
Income taxes		442		419		758

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Summary of Impacts of Revisions to the Risk-Free Discount Rate Applied to Environmental Remediation Liabilities and Recovery Assets

The following table summarizes the impacts of revisions in the risk-free discount rate applied to our environmental remediation liabilities and recovery assets during the reported periods (in millions) and the risk-free discount rate applied as of each reporting date:


	Years Ended December 31,
	2016			2015			2014
Charge (reduction) to operating expenses	$	(2	)	$	(2	)	$	10
Risk-free discount rate applied to environmental remediation liabilities and recovery assets		2.5	%		2.25	%		2.00	%

Schedule of Estimated Useful Lives for Significant Property and Equipment Categories

The estimated useful lives for significant property and equipment categories are as follows (in years):


	Useful Lives
Vehicles — excluding rail haul cars		3 to 10
Vehicles — rail haul cars		10 to 20
Machinery and equipment — including containers		3 to 30
Buildings and improvements		5 to 40
Furniture, fixtures and office equipment		3 to 10

Summary of Equity and Cost Method Investments

The following table summarizes our equity and cost method investments as of December 31 (in millions):


	2016		2015
Equity method investments	$	173	$	186
Cost method investments		147		174

Investments in unconsolidated entities	$	320	$	360

Schedule of Supplemental Cash Flow Information

Supplemental Cash Flow Information


Cash paid during the years ended December 31 (in millions):	2016		2015		2014
Interest, net of capitalized interest and periodic settlements from interest rate swap agreements	$	375	$	384	$	461
Income taxes		442		419		758

Landfill and Environmental Remediation Liabilities (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Text Block [Abstract]

Liabilities for Landfill and Environmental Remediation Costs

Liabilities for landfill and environmental remediation costs are presented in the table below (in millions):


	December 31, 2016						December 31, 2015
	Landfill		Environmental Remediation		Total		Landfill		Environmental Remediation		Total
Current (in accrued liabilities)	$	119	$	28	$	147	$	112	$	31	$	143
Long-term		1,457		218		1,675		1,406		178		1,584

	$	1,576	$	246	$	1,822	$	1,518	$	209	$	1,727

Changes to Landfill and Environmental Remediation Liabilities

The changes to landfill and environmental remediation liabilities for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2016 are reflected in the table below (in millions):


	Landfill			Environmental Remediation
December 31, 2014	$	1,443		$	235
Obligations incurred and capitalized		61			—
Obligations settled		(71	)		(30	)
Interest accretion		89			3
Revisions in estimates and interest rate assumptions(a)(b)		(11	)		5
Acquisitions, divestitures and other adjustments(d)		7			(4	)

December 31, 2015	$	1,518		$	209
Obligations incurred and capitalized		59			—
Obligations settled		(91	)		(24	)
Interest accretion		91			3
Revisions in estimates and interest rate assumptions(a)(b)(c)		(1	)		58

December 31, 2016	$	1,576		$	246

(a)	The amount reported for our landfill liabilities includes a decrease of approximately $18 million for 2015 and $11 million for 2016, related to our year-end annual review of landfill final capping, closure and post-closure obligations.

(b)

(c)	The amount reported in 2016 for our landfill liabilities includes an increase of $13 million due to acceleration of the expected timing of closure and post-closure activities for a landfill. See Note 13 for further discussion of the impairment charge related to this landfill.

(d)	The amount reported for our 2015 landfill liabilities include an increase of approximately $18 million as a result of our acquisition of Deffenbaugh Disposal, Inc. (“Deffenbaugh”).

Property and Equipment (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment at December 31 consisted of the following (in millions):


	2016			2015
Land	$	608		$	592
Landfills		14,276			13,772
Vehicles		4,433			4,257
Machinery and equipment		2,639			2,499
Containers		2,469			2,426
Buildings and improvements		2,667			2,546
Furniture, fixtures and office equipment		1,010			993

		28,102			27,085
Less accumulated depreciation of tangible property and equipment		(8,812	)		(8,495	)
Less accumulated amortization of landfill airspace		(8,340	)		(7,925	)

	$	10,950		$	10,665

Depreciation and Amortization Expense Including Amortization Expense for Assets Recorded as Capital Leases

Depreciation and amortization expense, including amortization expense for assets recorded as capital leases, was comprised of the following for the years ended December 31 (in millions):


	2016		2015		2014
Depreciation of tangible property and equipment	$	773	$	760	$	834
Amortization of landfill airspace		428		409		380

Depreciation and amortization expense	$	1,201	$	1,169	$	1,214

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Other Intangible Assets

Our other intangible assets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 were comprised of the following (in millions):


	Customer and Supplier Relationships			Covenants Not-to- Compete			Licenses, Permits and Other			Total
December 31, 2016:
Intangible assets	$	835		$	59		$	123		$	1,017
Less accumulated amortization		(342	)		(31	)		(53	)		(426	)

	$	493		$	28		$	70		$	591

December 31, 2015:
Intangible assets	$	658		$	51		$	119		$	828
Less accumulated amortization		(270	)		(35	)		(46	)		(351	)

	$	388		$	16		$	73		$	477

Debt (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Components of Debt


	2016		2015
$2.25 billion revolving credit facility, maturing July 2020 (weighted average interest rate of 1.9% at December 31, 2016)	$	426	$	20
Commercial paper program		—		—
Other letter of credit facilities, maturing through December 2018		—		—
Canadian term loan and revolving credit facility, maturing March 2019 (weighted average effective interest rate of 2.1% at December 31, 2016 and 2.2% at December 31, 2015)		239		84
Senior notes maturing through 2045, interest rates ranging from 2.40% to 7.75% (weighted average interest rate of 4.6% at December 31, 2016 and 4.7% at December 31, 2015)		6,033		6,050
Tax-exempt bonds maturing through 2045, fixed and variable interest rates ranging from 0.7% to 5.7% (weighted average interest rate of 1.8% at December 31, 2016 and 1.9% at December 31, 2015)		2,304		2,447
Capital leases and other, maturing through 2055, interest rates up to 12%		308		328

	$	9,310	$	8,929
Current portion of long-term debt		417		253

	$	8,893	$	8,676

Summary of Requirements of Financial Covenants Contained in Revolving Credit Facilities

The following table summarizes the most restrictive requirements of these financial covenants (all terms used to measure these ratios are defined by the facilities):


Interest coverage ratio		> 2.75 to 1
Total debt to EBITDA		< 3.50 to 1

Income Taxes (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Provision for Income Taxes

Our provision for income taxes consisted of the following for the years ended December 31 (in millions):


	2016			2015			2014
Current:
Federal	$	443		$	192		$	414
State		88			50			61
Foreign		38			36			56

		569			278			531

Deferred:
Federal		57			43			(89	)
State		17			(17	)		(33	)
Foreign		(1	)		4			4

		73			30			(118	)

Provision for income taxes	$	642		$	308		$	413

U.S. Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate Reconciled to Effective Rate

The U.S. federal statutory income tax rate is reconciled to the effective income tax rate for the years ended December 31 as follows:


	2016			2015			2014
Income tax expense at U.S. federal statutory rate		35.00	%		35.00	%		35.00	%
Federal tax credits		(3.08	)		(5.49	)		(3.21	)
Taxing authority audit settlements and other tax adjustments		(0.53	)		(2.67	)		(1.59	)
State and local income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit		3.31			3.20			1.77
Tax impact of impairments		0.80			0.23			0.46
Tax impact of divestitures		0.26			(0.34	)		(7.89	)
Tax rate differential on foreign income		(0.63	)		(0.99	)		(0.46	)
Other		0.10			0.17			(0.47	)

Provision for income taxes		35.23	%		29.11	%		23.61	%

Income Before Income Taxes Showing Domestic and Foreign Source

For financial reporting purposes, income before income taxes by source for the years ended December 31 was as follows (in millions):


	2016		2015		2014
Domestic	$	1,681	$	922	$	1,601
Foreign		141		138		150

Income before income taxes	$	1,822	$	1,060	$	1,751

Components of Net Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities)

The components of net deferred tax assets (liabilities) at December 31 are as follows (in millions):


	2016			2015
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss, capital loss and tax credit carry-forwards	$	285		$	280
Landfill and environmental remediation liabilities		116			120
Miscellaneous and other reserves, net		355			373

Subtotal		756			773
Valuation allowance		(292	)		(273	)
Deferred tax liabilities:
Property and equipment		(728	)		(709	)
Goodwill and other intangibles		(1,218	)		(1,182	)

Net deferred tax liabilities	$	(1,482	)	$	(1,391	)

Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Amount of Gross Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Including Accrued interest

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits, including accrued interest is as follows (in millions):


	2016			2015			2014
Balance at January 1	$	71		$	42		$	49
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year		19			18			9
Additions based on tax positions of prior years		4			21			2
Accrued interest		2			2			1
Reductions for tax positions of prior years		(7	)		(1	)		—
Settlements		—			(3	)		(11	)
Lapse of statute of limitations		(7	)		(8	)		(8	)

Balance at December 31	$	82		$	71		$	42

Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]

Individually Significant Multiemployer Pension Plans

The following table outlines our participation in Multiemployer Pension Plans considered to be individually significant (dollar amounts in millions):


	EIN/Pension Plan Number		Pension Protection Act Reported Status(a)				FIP/RP Status(b),(c)		Company Contributions(d)						Expiration Date of Collective Bargaining Agreement(s)
Pension Fund	EIN/Pension Plan Number		2016		2015		FIP/RP Status(b),(c)		2016		2015		2014		Expiration Date of Collective Bargaining Agreement(s)
Automotive Industries Pension Plan		EIN: 94-1133245; Plan Number: 001		Critical and Declining		Critical		Implemented	$	1	$	1	$	1		Various dates through 6/30/2018

Distributors Association Warehousemen’s Pension Trust		EIN: 94-0294755; Plan Number: 002		Critical as of 5/31/2015		Critical as of 5/31/2014		Implemented		1		1		1		4/7/2018

Local 731 Private Scavengers and Garage Attendants Pension Trust Fund		EIN: 36-6513567; Plan Number: 001		Not Endangered or Critical as of 9/30/2015		Endangered as of 9/30/2014		Implemented		7		7		6		9/30/2018

Suburban Teamsters of Northern Illinois Pension Plan		EIN: 36-6155778; Plan Number: 001		Endangered		Critical		Implemented		3		2		3		Various dates through 9/30/2017

Teamsters Local 301 Pension Plan		EIN: 36-6492992; Plan Number: 001		Not Endangered or Critical		Not Endangered or Critical		Not Applicable		2		1		1		9/30/2018

Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan		EIN: 91-6145047; Plan Number: 001		Not Endangered or Critical		Not Endangered or Critical		Not Applicable		25		24		24		Various dates through 12/31/2019

Western Pennsylvania Teamsters and Employers Pension Plan		EIN: 25-6029946; Plan Number: 001		Critical		Critical		Implemented		1		1		1		12/31/2016; 90-day extension with agreements currently under negotiation

									$	40	$	37	$	37

Contributions to other Multiemployer Pension Plans										7		6		7


Total contributions to Multiemployer Pension Plans(e)									$	47	$	43	$	44

(a)

(b)	The “FIP/RP Status” column indicates plans for which a Funding Improvement Plan (“FIP”) or a Rehabilitation Plan (“RP”) is either pending or has been implemented.

(c)

(d)	The Company was listed in the Form 5500 of the Multiemployer Pension Plans considered to be individually significant as providing more than 5% of the total contributions for each of the following plans and plan years:


		Year Contributions to Plan Exceeded 5% of Total Contributions (as of Plan’s Year End)
Distributors Association Warehousemen’s Pension Trust		5/31/2015 and 5/31/2014
Local 731 Private Scavengers and Garage Attendants Pension Trust Fund		9/30/2015 and 9/30/2014
Suburban Teamsters of Northern Illinois Pension Plan		12/31/2015 and 12/31/2014
Teamsters Local 301 Pension Plan		12/31/2015 and 12/31/2014

(e)	Total contributions to Multiemployer Pension Plans excludes contributions related to withdrawal liabilities discussed below.

Multiemployer Pension Plans and Year with Employer's Total Contribution Greater Than 5%

(d)	The Company was listed in the Form 5500 of the Multiemployer Pension Plans considered to be individually significant as providing more than 5% of the total contributions for each of the following plans and plan years:


		Year Contributions to Plan Exceeded 5% of Total Contributions (as of Plan’s Year End)
Distributors Association Warehousemen’s Pension Trust		5/31/2015 and 5/31/2014
Local 731 Private Scavengers and Garage Attendants Pension Trust Fund		9/30/2015 and 9/30/2014
Suburban Teamsters of Northern Illinois Pension Plan		12/31/2015 and 12/31/2014
Teamsters Local 301 Pension Plan		12/31/2015 and 12/31/2014

At the date the financial statements were issued, Forms 5500 were not available for the plan years ended in 2016.

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Changes to Net Insurance Liabilities

The changes to our net insurance liabilities for the three years ended December 31, 2016 are summarized below (in millions):


	Gross Claims Liability			Receivables Associated with Insured Claims(a)			Net Claims Liability
Balance, December 31, 2013	$	590		$	(197	)	$	393
Self-insurance expense (benefit)		135			(9	)		126
Cash (paid) received		(128	)		23			(105	)

Balance, December 31, 2014		597			(183	)		414
Self-insurance expense (benefit)		169			(39	)		130
Cash (paid) received		(123	)		4			(119	)

Balance, December 31, 2015		643			(218	)		425
Self-insurance expense (benefit)		71			30			101
Cash (paid) received		(126	)		17			(109	)

Balance, December 31, 2016(b)	$	588		$	(171	)	$	417

Current portion at December 31, 2016	$	133		$	(20	)	$	113
Long-term portion at December 31, 2016	$	455		$	(151	)	$	304

(a)	Amounts reported as receivables associated with insured claims are related to both paid and unpaid claims liabilities.

(b)	We currently expect substantially all of our net claims liability to be settled in cash over the next six years.

Restructuring Costs (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]

Restructuring Charges Pre Tax by Segment

The following table summarizes pre-tax restructuring charges, including employee severance and benefit costs and other charges, for the years ended December 31 (in millions):


	2016		2015		2014
Solid Waste	$	4	$	14	$	10
Corporate and Other		—		1		71
Wheelabrator		—		—		1

	$	4	$	15	$	82

Asset Impairments and Unusual Items (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Unusual or Infrequent Items, or Both [Abstract]

Components of (Income) Expense from Divestitures, Asset Impairments and Unusual Items

The following table summarizes the major components of (income) expense from divestitures, asset impairments and unusual items for the years ended December 31 (in millions):


	2016		2015			2014
(Income) expense from divestitures	$	9	$	(7	)	$	(515	)
Asset impairments		59		89			355
Other		44		—			—

	$	112	$	82		$	(160	)

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Equity [Abstract]

Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)


	Derivative Instruments			Available- for-Sale Securities			Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments			Post- Retirement Benefit Obligation			Total
Balance, December 31, 2013	$	(62	)	$	6		$	208		$	2		$	154
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, net of tax provision (benefit) of $4, $2, $0 and $(8), respectively		6			4			(107	)		(11	)		(108	)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss, net of tax (provision) benefit of $(3), $0, $0 and $0, respectively		(5	)		—			(17	)		(1	)		(23	)

Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)		1			4			(124	)		(12	)		(131	)

Balance, December 31, 2014	$	(61	)	$	10		$	84		$	(10	)	$	23
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, net of tax provision (benefit) of $20, $(1), $0 and $1, respectively		30			(2	)		(164	)		2			(134	)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss, net of tax (provision) benefit of $(14), $0, $0 and $0, respectively		(21	)		—			5			—			(16	)

Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)		9			(2	)		(159	)		2			(150	)

Balance, December 31, 2015	$	(52	)	$	8		$	(75	)	$	(8	)	$	(127	)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, net of tax provision (benefit) of $(4), $3, $0 and $0, respectively		(7	)		5			26			—			24
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss, net of tax (provision) benefit of $12, $0, $0 and $1, respectively		19			—			2			2			23

Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)		12			5			28			2			47

Balance, December 31, 2016	$	(40	)	$	13		$	(47	)	$	(6	)	$	(80	)

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Before Reclassifications Associated with the Effective Portion of Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges


	2016			2015			2014
Forward-starting interest rate swaps	$	—		$	—		$	(8	)
Foreign currency derivatives		(11	)		50			23
Electricity commodity derivatives		—			—			(5	)

Total before tax		(11	)		50			10
Tax (provision) benefit		4			(20	)		(4	)

Net of tax (provision) benefit	$	(7	)	$	30		$	6

Reclassification of Component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Associated with Cash Flow Hedges


	2016			2015			2014			Statement of Operations Classification
Forward-starting interest rate swaps	$	(10	)	$	(12	)	$	(10	)	Interest expense, net
Treasury rate locks		(1	)		(4	)		(1	)	Interest expense, net
Foreign currency derivatives		(20	)		51			27		Other, net
Electricity commodity derivatives		—			—			(8	)	Operating revenues

		(31	)		35			8		Total before tax
		12			(14	)		(3	)	Tax (provision) benefit

Total reclassifications for the period	$	(19	)	$	21		$	5		Net of tax

Capital Stock, Dividends and Common Stock Repurchase Program (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]

Share Repurchases under Common Stock Repurchase Programs

The following is a summary of our share repurchases under our common stock repurchase program for the years ended December 31:


	2016(a)	2015(b)	2014(c)
Shares repurchased (in thousands)	11,241	14,823	9,569
Weighted average per share purchase price	$60.49	$49.83	$43.89
Total repurchases (in millions)	$725	$600	$600

(a)

(b)	During 2015, we executed and completed two ASR agreements to repurchase $600 million of our common stock. Our “Shares repurchased” also includes 2.8 million shares related to ASR agreements that were executed in 2014, discussed further below.

(c)

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]

Summary of RSUs

Restricted Stock Units — A summary of our RSUs is presented in the table below (units in thousands):


	Units			Weighted Average Per Share Fair Value
Unvested at January 1, 2016		524		$	43.76
Granted		186		$	57.38
Vested		(205	)	$	37.45
Forfeited		(15	)	$	51.17

Unvested at December 31, 2016		490		$	51.32

Summary of PSUs

A summary of our PSUs, at 100% of the targeted amount, is presented in the table below (units in thousands):


	Units			Weighted Average Per Share Fair Value
Unvested at January 1, 2016		1,762		$	52.90
Granted		555		$	79.27
Vested		(664	)	$	48.38
Forfeited		(148	)	$	76.01

Unvested at December 31, 2016		1,505		$	68.98

Summary of Stock Options

A summary of our stock options is presented in the table below (options in thousands):


	Options			Weighted Average Per Share Exercise Price
Outstanding at January 1, 2016		7,507		$	40.80
Granted		1,387		$	56.24
Exercised		(2,645	)	$	37.20
Forfeited or expired		(606	)	$	51.70

Outstanding at December 31, 2016(a)		5,643		$	45.12

Exercisable at December 31, 2016(b)		2,921		$	38.84

(a)	Stock options outstanding as of December 31, 2016 have a weighted average remaining contractual term of 6.9 years and an aggregate intrinsic value of $146 million based on the market value of our common stock on December 31, 2016.

(b)	Stock options exercisable as of December 31, 2016 have an aggregate intrinsic value of $94 million based on the market value of our common stock on December 31, 2016.

Summary of Exercisable Stock Options

Exercisable stock options at December 31, 2016, were as follows (options in thousands):


Range of Exercise Prices	Options		Weighted Average Per Share Exercise Price		Weighted Average Remaining Years
$32.315-$40.00		2,141	$	36.12		4.9
$40.01-$50.00		491	$	41.36		7.2
$50.01-$54.635		289	$	54.64		8.2

$32.315-$54.635		2,921	$	38.84		5.6

Weighted Average Assumptions Used to Value Employee Stock Options Granted

The following table presents the weighted average assumptions used to value employee stock options granted during the years ended December 31 under the Black-Scholes valuation model:


	2016	2015	2014
Expected option life	4.7 years	4.4 years	4.8 years
Expected volatility	18.4%	16.7%	18.4%
Expected dividend yield	2.9%	2.8%	3.6%
Risk-free interest rate	1.3%	1.4%	1.6%

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Common Share Data Used for Computing Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share

Basic and diluted earnings per share were computed using the following common share data for the years ended December 31 (shares in millions):


	2016		2015		2014
Number of common shares outstanding at year-end		439.3		447.2		458.5
Effect of using weighted average common shares outstanding		4.2		5.5		4.1

Weighted average basic common shares outstanding		443.5		452.7		462.6
Dilutive effect of equity-based compensation awards and other contingently issuable shares		3.0		3.2		3.0

Weighted average diluted common shares outstanding		446.5		455.9		465.6

Potentially issuable shares		9.8		10.2		11.3
Number of anti-dilutive potentially issuable shares excluded from diluted common shares outstanding		1.0		2.0		0.4

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis

Our assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis include the following (in millions):


			Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2016 Using
	Total		Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1)		Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)		Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Assets:
Money market funds	$	35	$	35	$	—	$	—
Available-for-sale securities		46		—		46		—
Fixed-income securities		39		—		39		—
Redeemable preferred stock		54		—		—		54

Total assets	$	174	$	35	$	85	$	54


			Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2015 Using
	Total		Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1)		Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)		Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Assets:
Money market funds	$	35	$	35	$	—	$	—
Available-for-sale securities		43		—		43		—
Fixed-income securities		40		—		40		—
Foreign currency derivatives		78		—		78		—
Redeemable preferred stock		47		—		—		47

Total assets	$	243	$	35	$	161	$	47

Acquisitions and Divestitures (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Business Combinations [Abstract]

Schedule of Fair Value Assigned to Other Intangible Assets

The following table presents the fair value assigned to other intangible assets for the Deffenbaugh and SWS acquisitions, respectively, (amounts in millions, except for amortization periods):


	Deffenbaugh				SWS
	Amount		Weighted Average Amortization Periods (in Years)		Amount		Weighted Average Amortization Periods (in Years)
Customer relationships	$	94		15.0	$	160		10.0
Noncompete agreements		—		—		18		5.0
Trade name		6		15.0		4		10.0

Total other intangible assets subject to amortization	$	100		15.0	$	182		9.5

Pro Forma Consolidated Results of Operations


	2016		2015
Operating revenues	$	13,611	$	13,137
Net income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.		1,182		751
Basic earnings per common share		2.67		1.66
Diluted earnings per common share		2.65		1.65

Segment and Related Information (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Reportable Segments

Summarized financial information concerning our reportable segments as of and for the years ended December 31 is shown in the following table (in millions):


	Gross Operating Revenues		Intercompany Operating Revenues(c)			Net Operating Revenues		Income from Operations (d),(e)			Depreciation and Amortization		Capital Expenditures (f)		Total Assets (g),(h)
2016
Solid Waste:
Tier 1	$	5,241	$	(911	)	$	4,330	$	1,430		$	424	$	452	$	6,188
Tier 2		3,391		(620	)		2,771		604			280		295		5,488
Tier 3		5,336		(921	)		4,415		912			440		451		6,571
Other(a)		2,278		(185	)		2,093		(100	)		101		104		1,489

		16,246		(2,637	)		13,609		2,846			1,245		1,302		19,736
Corporate and Other(b)		—		—			—		(550	)		56		45		1,401

Total	$	16,246	$	(2,637	)	$	13,609	$	2,296		$	1,301	$	1,347	$	21,137

2015
Solid Waste:
Tier 1	$	5,083	$	(856	)	$	4,227	$	1,290		$	428	$	382	$	6,098
Tier 2		3,304		(613	)		2,691		629			280		251		5,394
Tier 3		4,898		(813	)		4,085		808			379		412		5,930
Other(a)		2,065		(107	)		1,958		(160	)		94		128		1,701

		15,350		(2,389	)		12,961		2,567			1,181		1,173		19,123
Corporate and Other(b)		—		—			—		(522	)		64		56		1,783

Total	$	15,350	$	(2,389	)	$	12,961	$	2,045		$	1,245	$	1,229	$	20,906

2014
Solid Waste:
Tier 1	$	5,117	$	(834	)	$	4,283	$	1,301		$	408	$	388	$	6,150
Tier 2		3,516		(663	)		2,853		711			287		223		5,648
Tier 3		4,816		(786	)		4,030		787			361		351		5,449
Other(a)		2,191		(76	)		2,115		(400	)		128		134		1,791
Wheelabrator		817		(102	)		715		669			37		11		—

		16,457		(2,461	)		13,996		3,068			1,221		1,107		19,038
Corporate and Other(b)		—		—			—		(769	)		71		74		2,805

Total	$	16,457	$	(2,461	)	$	13,996	$	2,299		$	1,292	$	1,181	$	21,843

(a)

(b)

(c)	Intercompany operating revenues reflect each segment’s total intercompany sales, including intercompany sales within a segment and between segments. Transactions within and between segments are generally made on a basis intended to reflect the market value of the service.

(d)	For those items included in the determination of income from operations, the accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in Note 3.

(e)

(f)	Includes non-cash items. Capital expenditures are reported in our reportable segments at the time they are recorded within the segments’ property and equipment balances and, therefore, may include amounts that have been accrued but not yet paid.

(g)	The reconciliation of total assets reported above to “Total assets” in the Consolidated Balance Sheets is as follows (in millions):


	December 31,
	2016			2015			2014
Total assets, as reported above	$	21,137		$	20,906		$	21,843
Elimination of intercompany investments and advances		(278	)		(539	)		(591	)

Total assets, per Consolidated Balance Sheet	$	20,859		$	20,367		$	21,252

(h)


	Solid Waste
	Tier 1			Tier 2			Tier 3			Other			Total
Balance, December 31, 2014	$	2,178		$	1,795		$	1,662		$	105		$	5,740
Acquired goodwill		27			42			151			105			325
Divested goodwill		—			(6	)		(1	)		—			(7	)
Foreign currency translation		(15	)		(59	)		—			—			(74	)

Balance, December 31, 2015	$	2,190		$	1,772		$	1,812		$	210		$	5,984
Acquired goodwill		11			12			254			3			280
Divested goodwill		—			—			(1	)		—			(1	)
Impairments		—			—			—			(12	)		(12	)
Foreign currency translation		2			10			—			—			12
Other adjustments		—			(2	)		—			(46	)		(48	)

Balance, December 31, 2016	$	2,203		$	1,792		$	2,065		$	155		$	6,215

Reconciliation of Segment Assets to Consolidated Total

The reconciliation of total assets reported above to “Total assets” in the Consolidated Balance Sheets is as follows (in millions):


	December 31,
	2016			2015			2014
Total assets, as reported above	$	21,137		$	20,906		$	21,843
Elimination of intercompany investments and advances		(278	)		(539	)		(591	)

Total assets, per Consolidated Balance Sheet	$	20,859		$	20,367		$	21,252

Changes in Goodwill by Reportable Segment

The following table presents changes in goodwill during 2015 and 2016 by reportable segment (in millions):


	Solid Waste
	Tier 1			Tier 2			Tier 3			Other			Total
Balance, December 31, 2014	$	2,178		$	1,795		$	1,662		$	105		$	5,740
Acquired goodwill		27			42			151			105			325
Divested goodwill		—			(6	)		(1	)		—			(7	)
Foreign currency translation		(15	)		(59	)		—			—			(74	)

Balance, December 31, 2015	$	2,190		$	1,772		$	1,812		$	210		$	5,984
Acquired goodwill		11			12			254			3			280
Divested goodwill		—			—			(1	)		—			(1	)
Impairments		—			—			—			(12	)		(12	)
Foreign currency translation		2			10			—			—			12
Other adjustments		—			(2	)		—			(46	)		(48	)

Balance, December 31, 2016	$	2,203		$	1,792		$	2,065		$	155		$	6,215

Total Revenues by Principal Line of Business

The mix of operating revenues from our major lines of business for the years ended December 31 are as follows (in millions):


	2016			2015			2014
Commercial	$	3,480		$	3,332		$	3,393
Residential		2,487			2,499			2,543
Industrial		2,412			2,252			2,231
Other		423			356			340

Total collection		8,802			8,439			8,507
Landfill		3,110			2,919			2,849
Transfer		1,512			1,377			1,353
Recycling		1,221			1,163			1,370
Other(a)		1,601			1,452			1,561
Wheelabrator		—			—			817
Intercompany(b)		(2,637	)		(2,389	)		(2,461	)

Total	$	13,609		$	12,961		$	13,996

(a)

(b)	Intercompany revenues between lines of business are eliminated within the Consolidated Financial Statements included herein.

Summary of Net Operating Revenues by Segment

Net operating revenues relating to operations in the United States and Puerto Rico, and Canada for the years ended December 31 are as follows (in millions):


	2016		2015		2014
United States and Puerto Rico(a)	$	12,915	$	12,196	$	13,064
Canada		694		765		932

Total	$	13,609	$	12,961	$	13,996

(a)	We sold our Puerto Rico operations in 2014. Refer to Note 19 for additional information.

Summary of Property and Equipment Net of Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization Relating to Operations by Segment


	2016		2015		2014
United States and Puerto Rico(a)	$	10,040	$	9,778	$	9,586
Canada		910		887		1,071

Total	$	10,950	$	10,665	$	10,657

(a)	We sold our Puerto Rico operations in 2014. Refer to Note 19 for additional information.

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data

The following table summarizes the unaudited quarterly results of operations for 2016 and 2015 (in millions, except per share amounts):


	First Quarter			Second Quarter		Third Quarter		Fourth Quarter
2016
Operating revenues	$	3,176		$	3,425	$	3,548	$	3,460
Income from operations		508			611		560		617
Consolidated net income		256			286		304		334
Net income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.		258			287		302		335
Basic earnings per common share		0.58			0.65		0.68		0.76
Diluted earnings per common share		0.58			0.64		0.68		0.75

2015
Operating revenues	$	3,040		$	3,315	$	3,360	$	3,246
Income from operations		440			502		601		502
Consolidated net income (loss)		(131	)		273		337		273
Net income (loss) attributable to Waste Management, Inc.		(129	)		274		335		273
Basic earnings (loss) per common share		(0.28	)		0.60		0.75		0.61
Diluted earnings (loss) per common share		(0.28	)		0.60		0.74		0.61

Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEETS

December 31, 2016


	WM			WM Holdings		Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries			Eliminations			Consolidated
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	—		$	—	$	32		$	—		$	32
Other current assets		5			5		2,334			—			2,344

		5			5		2,366			—			2,376
Property and equipment, net		—			—		10,950			—			10,950
Investments in affiliates		19,924			20,331		—			(40,255	)		—
Advances to affiliates(a)		—			—		13,000			(13,000	)		—
Other assets		14			30		7,489			—			7,533

Total assets	$	19,943		$	20,366	$	33,805		$	(53,255	)	$	20,859


LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Current portion of long-term debt	$	269		$	—	$	148		$	—		$	417
Accounts payable and other current liabilities		81			9		2,287			—			2,377

		350			9		2,435			—			2,794
Long-term debt, less current portion(a)		6,229			304		2,360			—			8,893
Due to affiliates(a)		13,350			128		5,299			(18,777	)		—
Other liabilities		16			—		3,836			—			3,852

Total liabilities		19,945			441		13,930			(18,777	)		15,539
Equity:
Stockholders’ equity		5,297			19,925		20,330			(40,255	)		5,297
Advances to affiliates		(5,299	)		—		(478	)		5,777			—
Noncontrolling interests		—			—		23			—			23

		(2	)		19,925		19,875			(34,478	)		5,320

Total liabilities and equity	$	19,943		$	20,366	$	33,805		$	(53,255	)	$	20,859

(a)

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEETS (Continued)

December 31, 2015


	WM			WM Holdings		Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries			Eliminations			Consolidated
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	—		$	—	$	39		$	—		$	39
Other current assets		3			6		2,297			—			2,306

		3			6		2,336			—			2,345
Property and equipment, net		—			—		10,665			—			10,665
Investments in affiliates(b)		18,557			18,925		—			(37,482	)		—
Advances to affiliates		—			—		12,113			(12,113	)		—
Other assets		23			29		7,305			—			7,357

Total assets	$	18,583		$	18,960	$	32,419		$	(49,595	)	$	20,367


LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Current portion of long-term debt	$	41		$	—	$	212		$	—		$	253
Accounts payable and other current liabilities		83			9		2,165			—			2,257

		124			9		2,377			—			2,510
Long-term debt, less current portion		5,801			304		2,571			—			8,676
Due to affiliates(b)		12,588			76		5,299			(17,963	)		—
Other liabilities		24			—		3,790			—			3,814

Total liabilities		18,537			389		14,037			(17,963	)		15,000
Equity:
Stockholders’ equity		5,345			18,571		18,911			(37,482	)		5,345
Advances to affiliates(b)		(5,299	)		—		(551	)		5,850			—
Noncontrolling interests		—			—		22			—			22

		46			18,571		18,382			(31,632	)		5,367

Total liabilities and equity	$	18,583		$	18,960	$	32,419		$	(49,595	)	$	20,367

(b)

Condensed Consolidating Statements of Operations

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS


	WM			WM Holdings			Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries			Eliminations			Consolidated
Year Ended December 31, 2016
Operating revenues	$	—		$	—		$	13,609		$	—		$	13,609
Costs and expenses		—			—			11,313			—			11,313

Income from operations		—			—			2,296			—			2,296

Other income (expense):
Interest expense, net		(303	)		(20	)		(53	)		—			(376	)
Loss on early extinguishment of debt		(1	)		—			(3	)		—			(4	)
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries, net of tax provision		1,367			1,381			—			(2,748	)		—
Other, net		—			—			(94	)		—			(94	)

		1,063			1,361			(150	)		(2,748	)		(474	)

Income before income taxes		1,063			1,361			2,146			(2,748	)		1,822
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes		(119	)		(8	)		769			—			642

Consolidated net income		1,182			1,369			1,377			(2,748	)		1,180
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests		—			—			(2	)		—			(2	)

Net income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	$	1,182		$	1,369		$	1,379		$	(2,748	)	$	1,182

Year Ended December 31, 2015
Operating revenues	$	—		$	—		$	12,961		$	—		$	12,961
Costs and expenses		—			(1	)		10,917			—			10,916

Income from operations		—			1			2,044			—			2,045

Other income (expense):
Interest expense, net		(298	)		(22	)		(65	)		—			(385	)
Loss on early extinguishment of debt		(500	)		(52	)		(3	)		—			(555	)
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries, net of tax provision		1,245			1,289			—			(2,534	)		—
Other, net		—			—			(45	)		—			(45	)

		447			1,215			(113	)		(2,534	)		(985	)

Income before income taxes		447			1,216			1,931			(2,534	)		1,060
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes		(306	)		(29	)		643			—			308

Consolidated net income		753			1,245			1,288			(2,534	)		752
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests		—			—			(1	)		—			(1	)

Net income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	$	753		$	1,245		$	1,289		$	(2,534	)	$	753

Year Ended December 31, 2014
Operating revenues	$	—		$	—		$	13,996		$	—		$	13,996
Costs and expenses		—			(459	)		12,156			—			11,697

Income from operations		—			459			1,840			—			2,299

Other income (expense):
Interest expense, net		(351	)		(31	)		(84	)		—			(466	)
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries, net of tax provision		1,510			1,070			—			(2,580	)		—
Other, net		—			—			(82	)		—			(82	)

		1,159			1,039			(166	)		(2,580	)		(548	)

Income before income taxes		1,159			1,498			1,674			(2,580	)		1,751
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes		(139	)		(12	)		564			—			413

Consolidated net income		1,298			1,510			1,110			(2,580	)		1,338
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests		—			—			40			—			40

Net income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	$	1,298		$	1,510		$	1,070		$	(2,580	)	$	1,298

Condensed Consolidating Statements of Comprehensive Income

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME


	WM		WM Holdings		Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries			Eliminations			Consolidated
Year Ended December 31, 2016
Comprehensive income	$	1,189	$	1,369	$	1,417		$	(2,748	)	$	1,227
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests		—		—		(2	)		—			(2	)

Comprehensive income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	$	1,189	$	1,369	$	1,419		$	(2,748	)	$	1,229

Year Ended December 31, 2015
Comprehensive income	$	762	$	1,245	$	1,129		$	(2,534	)	$	602
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests		—		—		(1	)		—			(1	)

Comprehensive income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	$	762	$	1,245	$	1,130		$	(2,534	)	$	603

Year Ended December 31, 2014
Comprehensive income	$	1,300	$	1,510	$	977		$	(2,580	)	$	1,207
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests		—		—		40			—			40

Comprehensive income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	$	1,300	$	1,510	$	937		$	(2,580	)	$	1,167

Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS


	WM(c)			WM Holdings(c)			Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries(c)			Eliminations			Consolidated
Year Ended December 31, 2016
Cash flows from operating activities:
Consolidated net income	$	1,182		$	1,369		$	1,377		$	(2,748	)	$	1,180
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries, net of tax provision		(1,367	)		(1,381	)		—			2,748			—
Other adjustments		185			12			1,583			—			1,780

Net cash provided by operating activities		—			—			2,960			—			2,960

Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired		—			—			(611	)		—			(611	)
Capital expenditures		—			—			(1,339	)		—			(1,339	)
Proceeds from divestitures of businesses and other assets (net of cash divested)		—			—			43			—			43
Net receipts from restricted trust and escrow accounts and other, net		—			—			(25	)		—			(25	)

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		—			—			(1,932	)		—			(1,932	)

Cash flows from financing activities:
New borrowings		—			—			3,057			—			3,057
Debt repayments		—			—			(2,682	)		—			(2,682	)
Premiums paid on early extinguishment of debt		—			—			(2	)		—			(2	)
Common stock repurchase program		—			—			(725	)		—			(725	)
Cash dividends		—			—			(726	)		—			(726	)
Exercise of common stock options		—			—			63			—			63
Other, net		—			—			(20	)		—			(20	)
(Increase) decrease in intercompany and investments, net		—			—			—			—			—

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		—			—			(1,035	)		—			(1,035	)

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents		—			—			—			—			—

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		—			—			(7	)		—			(7	)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year		—			—			39			—			39

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$	—		$	—		$	32		$	—		$	32

(c)	Cash receipts and payments of WM and WM Holdings are transacted by Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries.


	WM(d)			WM Holdings(d)			Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries(d)			Eliminations			Consolidated
Year Ended December 31, 2015
Cash flows from operating activities:
Consolidated net income	$	753		$	1,245		$	1,288		$	(2,534	)	$	752
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries, net of tax provision		(1,245	)		(1,289	)		—			2,534			—
Other adjustments		492			44			1,210			—			1,746

Net cash provided by operating activities		—			—			2,498			—			2,498

Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired		—			—			(554	)		—			(554	)
Capital expenditures		—			—			(1,233	)		—			(1,233	)
Proceeds from divestitures of businesses and other assets (net of cash divested)		—			—			145			—			145
Net receipts from restricted trust and escrow accounts and other, net		—			—			34			—			34

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		—			—			(1,608	)		—			(1,608	)

Cash flows from financing activities:
New borrowings		—			—			2,337			—			2,337
Debt repayments		—			—			(2,764	)		—			(2,764	)
Premiums paid on early extinguishment of debt		—			—			(555	)		—			(555	)
Common stock repurchase program		—			—			(600	)		—			(600	)
Cash dividends		—			—			(695	)		—			(695	)
Exercise of common stock options		—			—			77			—			77
Other, net		—			—			45			—			45
(Increase) decrease in intercompany and investments, net		(1,235	)		—			1,235			—			—

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		(1,235	)		—			(920	)		—			(2,155	)

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents		—			—			(3	)		—			(3	)

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		(1,235	)		—			(33	)		—			(1,268	)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year		1,235			—			72			—			1,307

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$	—		$	—		$	39		$	—		$	39

(d)	Cash receipts and payments of WM and WM Holdings are transacted by Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries. We have revised the prior year presentation to reflect all relevant cash flow activities in the Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries column.


	WM(e)			WM Holdings(e)			Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries(e)			Eliminations			Consolidated
Year Ended December 31, 2014
Cash flows from operating activities:
Consolidated net income	$	1,298		$	1,510		$	1,110		$	(2,580	)	$	1,338
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries, net of tax provision		(1,510	)		(1,070	)		—			2,580			—
Other adjustments		212			(440	)		1,221			—			993

Net cash provided by operating activities		—			—			2,331			—			2,331

Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired		—			—			(35	)		—			(35	)
Capital expenditures		—			—			(1,151	)		—			(1,151	)
Proceeds from divestitures of businesses and other assets (net of cash divested)		—			—			2,253			—			2,253
Net receipts from restricted trust and escrow accounts and other, net		—			—			(72	)		—			(72	)

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		—			—			995			—			995

Cash flows from financing activities:
New borrowings		—			—			2,817			—			2,817
Debt repayments		—			—			(3,568	)		—			(3,568	)
Common stock repurchase program		—			—			(600	)		—			(600	)
Cash dividends		—			—			(693	)		—			(693	)
Exercise of common stock options		—			—			93			—			93
Other, net		—			—			(121	)		—			(121	)
(Increase) decrease in intercompany and investments, net		1,235			—			(1,235	)		—			—

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		1,235			—			(3,307	)		—			(2,072	)

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents		—			—			(5	)		—			(5	)

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		1,235			—			14			—			1,249
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year		—			—			58			—			58

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$	1,235		$	—		$	72		$	—		$	1,307

(e)	Cash receipts and payments of WM and WM Holdings are transacted by Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries. We have revised the prior year presentation to reflect all relevant cash flow activities in the Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries column.

Business - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
Business - Additional Information (Detail)	Dec. 31, 2016 Areas
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Number of areas	17

Adoption of New Accounting Standards and Reclassifications - Additional Information (Detail) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($)
Accounting Standards Update 2015-03 [Member]
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Reclassification of debt issuance costs	$ 52

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($) site	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014 USD ($)
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Inflation rate		2.50%	2.50%	2.50%
Number of landfill sites with expansions that require the Chief Financial Officer to approve the inclusion of the unpermitted airspace \| site		3
Environmental remediation reasonably possible additional losses high estimate		$ 120
Environmental remediation liabilities		246
Environmental remediation liabilities that have never been subject to inflation or discounting		$ 90	$ 52
Increase (decrease) in environmental remediation liabilities due to the impacts of inflation and discounting			(3)
Other intangible assets, amortization method		150% declining balance approach or a straight-line basis
Restricted trust and escrow accounts		$ 105	105
Total interest costs		394	407	$ 487
Total capitalized interest costs		9	16	$ 16
Other Receivables [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Receivables related to income tax payments in excess of our provision for income taxes		$ 352	$ 439
Non-compete Covenant [Member] \| Minimum [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Amortizable period of the intangible assets		2 years
Non-compete Covenant [Member] \| Maximum [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Amortizable period of the intangible assets		5 years
Supplier Relationships [Member] \| Customer Relationships [Member] \| Minimum [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Amortizable period of the intangible assets		10 years
Supplier Relationships [Member] \| Customer Relationships [Member] \| Maximum [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Amortizable period of the intangible assets		15 years
Landfill [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Required period to maintain and monitor landfill sites		30 years
Credit adjusted, risk free discount rate applicable to long-term asset retirement obligations		6.00%
Number of landfills sites with expansion \| site		16
Landfill [Member] \| Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Expected credit adjusted, risk free discount rate applied to liabilities incurred	4.00%
Accounts Receivable Net [Member] \| Concentration of Credit Risk [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Maximum accounts receivable from single customer in percentage to total accounts receivable		5.00%	5.00%

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Summary of Impacts of Revisions to the Risk-Free Discount Rate Applied to Environmental Remediation Liabilities and Recovery Assets (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Charge (reduction) to operating expenses	$ (2)	$ (2)	$ 10
Risk-free discount rate applied to environmental remediation liabilities and recovery assets	2.50%	2.25%	2.00%

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Schedule of Estimated Useful Lives for Significant Property and Equipment Categories (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Minimum [Member] \| Vehicles - Excluding Rail Haul Cars [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful Life	3 years
Minimum [Member] \| Vehicles - Rail Haul Cars [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful Life	10 years
Minimum [Member] \| Machinery and Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful Life	3 years
Minimum [Member] \| Building and Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful Life	5 years
Minimum [Member] \| Furniture, Fixtures and Office Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful Life	3 years
Maximum [Member] \| Vehicles - Excluding Rail Haul Cars [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful Life	10 years
Maximum [Member] \| Vehicles - Rail Haul Cars [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful Life	20 years
Maximum [Member] \| Machinery and Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful Life	30 years
Maximum [Member] \| Building and Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful Life	40 years
Maximum [Member] \| Furniture, Fixtures and Office Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful Life	10 years

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Summary of Equity and Cost Method Investments (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Equity method investments	$ 173	$ 186
Cost method investments	147	174
Investments in unconsolidated entities	$ 320	$ 360

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Schedule of Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Interest, net of capitalized interest and periodic settlements from interest rate swap agreements	$ 375	$ 384	$ 461
Income taxes	$ 442	$ 419	$ 758

Landfill and Environmental Remediation Liabilities - Liabilities for Landfill and Environmental Remediation Costs (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Site Contingency [Line Items]
Total, Environmental Remediation	$ 246
Current (in accrued liabilities)	147	$ 143
Long-term	1,675	1,584
Total	1,822	1,727
Landfill [Member]
Site Contingency [Line Items]
Current (in accrued liabilities), Landfill	119	112
Long-term, Landfill	1,457	1,406
Total, Landfill	1,576	1,518	$ 1,443
Environmental Remediation Liabilities [Member]
Site Contingency [Line Items]
Current (in accrued liabilities), Environmental Remediation	28	31
Long-term, Environmental Remediation	218	178
Total, Environmental Remediation	$ 246	$ 209	$ 235

Landfill and Environmental Remediation Liabilities - Changes to Landfill and Environmental Remediation Liabilities (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Environmental Exit Cost [Line Items]
Interest accretion	$ 91	$ 89	$ 88
Ending balance, environmental remediation	246
Landfill [Member]
Environmental Exit Cost [Line Items]
Beginning balance, landfill	1,518	1,443
Obligations incurred and capitalized	59	61
Obligations settled	(91)	(71)
Interest accretion	91	89
Revisions in estimates and interest rate assumptions	(1)	(11)
Acquisitions, divestitures and other adjustments		7
Ending balance, landfill	1,576	1,518	1,443
Environmental Remediation Liabilities [Member]
Environmental Exit Cost [Line Items]
Beginning balance, environmental remediation	209	235
Obligations settled	(24)	(30)
Interest accretion	3	3
Revisions in estimates and interest rate assumptions	58	5
Acquisitions, divestitures and other adjustments		(4)
Ending balance, environmental remediation	$ 246	$ 209	$ 235

Landfill and Environmental Remediation Liabilities - Changes to Landfill and Environmental Remediation Liabilities (Parenthetical) (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Environmental Exit Cost [Line Items]
Risk-free discount rate of the obligations		2.50%	2.25%	2.00%
Increase (Decrease) to operating expenses due to change in discount rate used to estimate the present value of environmental remediation obligations		$ (2)	$ (3)
Increase in cost estimate associated with environmental remediation liability		44
San Jacinto Waste Pits [Member]
Environmental Exit Cost [Line Items]
Increase in cost estimate associated with environmental remediation liability	$ 42	44
Landfill [Member]
Environmental Exit Cost [Line Items]
Increase (decrease) related to year-end review of landfill capping closure and post closure obligations included in landfill liabilities		(11)	(18)
Increase in landfill liabilities related to landfill impairment		$ 13
Increase (Decrease) in landfill liabilities			7
Deffenbaugh Disposal, Inc. [Member] \| Landfill [Member]
Environmental Exit Cost [Line Items]
Increase (Decrease) in landfill liabilities			$ 18

Landfill and Environmental Remediation Liabilities - Additional Information (Detail) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)
Environmental Remediation Obligations [Abstract]
Anticipated payments for currently identified environmental remediation liabilities, in 2017	$ 28
Anticipated payments for currently identified environmental remediation liabilities, in 2018	21
Anticipated payments for currently identified environmental remediation liabilities, in 2019	29
Anticipated payments for currently identified environmental remediation liabilities, in 2020	63
Anticipated payments for currently identified environmental remediation liabilities, in 2021	17
Anticipated payments for currently identified environmental remediation liabilities, after 2021	$ 88

Property and Equipment - Property and Equipment (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment , gross	$ 28,102	$ 27,085
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	(17,152)	(16,420)
Property and equipment, net	10,950	10,665	$ 10,657
Land [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment , gross	608	592
Landfill [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment , gross	14,276	13,772
Vehicles [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment , gross	4,433	4,257
Machinery and Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment , gross	2,639	2,499
Containers [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment , gross	2,469	2,426
Building and Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment , gross	2,667	2,546
Furniture, Fixtures and Office Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment , gross	1,010	993
Tangible Property and Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	(8,812)	(8,495)
Landfill Airspace [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	$ (8,340)	$ (7,925)

Property and Equipment - Depreciation and Amortization Expense Including Amortization Expense for Assets Recorded as Capital Leases (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization expense	$ 1,301	$ 1,245	$ 1,292
Tangible Property and Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization expense	773	760	834
Landfill Airspace [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization expense	428	409	380
Property and Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization expense	$ 1,201	$ 1,169	$ 1,214

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill	$ 6,215	$ 5,984	$ 5,740
Increase in goodwill during the period	231
Amortization expenses for other intangible assets	100	$ 76	$ 78
Indefinite-lived intangible assets	18
Expected amortization expenses related to other intangible assets in 2017	97
Expected amortization expenses related to other intangible assets in 2018	87
Expected amortization expenses related to other intangible assets in 2019	77
Expected amortization expenses related to other intangible assets in 2020	69
Expected amortization expenses related to other intangible assets in 2021	$ 58

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Schedule of Other Intangible Assets (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets	$ 1,017	$ 828
Less accumulated amortization	(426)	(351)
Total	591	477
Customer and Supplier Relationships [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets	835	658
Less accumulated amortization	(342)	(270)
Total	493	388
Covenants Not-to-Compete [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets	59	51
Less accumulated amortization	(31)	(35)
Total	28	16
Licenses Permits and Other [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets	123	119
Less accumulated amortization	(53)	(46)
Total	$ 70	$ 73

Debt - Components of Debt (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt and capital lease obligations	$ 9,310	$ 8,929
Current portion of long-term debt	417	253
Long-term debt, less current portion	8,893	8,676
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt and capital lease obligations	426	20
Canadian Term Loan and Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt and capital lease obligations	239	84
Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt and capital lease obligations	6,033	6,050
Tax-exempt Bonds [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt and capital lease obligations	2,304	2,447
Capital Leases and Other [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt and capital lease obligations	$ 308	$ 328

Debt - Components of Debt (Parenthetical) (Detail) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Capital Leases and Other [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
End period of maturity for debt instrument	Dec. 31, 2055
Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Weighted average interest rate	4.60%	4.70%
End period of maturity for debt instrument	Mar. 01, 2045
Tax-exempt Bonds [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Weighted average interest rate	1.80%	1.90%
End period of maturity for debt instrument	Aug. 01, 2045
Minimum [Member] \| Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate	2.40%
Minimum [Member] \| Tax-exempt Bonds [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate	0.70%
Maximum [Member] \| Capital Leases and Other [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate	12.00%
Maximum [Member] \| Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate	7.75%
Maximum [Member] \| Tax-exempt Bonds [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate	5.70%
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Credit Facility, aggregate capacity	$ 2,250,000,000
Weighted average interest rate	1.90%
Maturity date of credit facility	Jul. 30, 2020
Other Letter of Credit Facilities [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity date of credit facility	Dec. 31, 2018
Canadian Term Loan and Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Weighted average interest rate	2.10%	2.20%
Maturity date of credit facility	Mar. 31, 2019

Debt - Additional Information (Detail)	1 Months Ended				3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
Debt - Additional Information (Detail)	Sep. 30, 2016 USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2016 USD ($)	May 31, 2016 USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2016 CAD ($)	Mar. 31, 2016 USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2016 CAD ($)	Mar. 31, 2015 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016 CAD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016 CAD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015 CAD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Current portion of long-term debt								$ 417,000,000		$ 417,000,000	$ 253,000,000
Outstanding borrowings under credit facility								230,000,000		230,000,000
Debt maturing within twelve months								187,000,000		187,000,000
Tax-exempt bonds subject to re-pricing within next 12 months								473,000,000		473,000,000
Loss on early extinguishment of debt										(4,000,000)	(555,000,000)
Debt and capital lease principal payments in 2017								610,000,000		610,000,000
Debt and capital lease principal payments in 2018								783,000,000		783,000,000
Debt and capital lease principal payments in 2019								432,000,000		432,000,000
Debt and capital lease principal payments in 2020								746,000,000		746,000,000
Debt and capital lease principal payments in 2021								540,000,000		540,000,000
Tax-exempt Bonds [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt maturing within twelve months								126,000,000		126,000,000
Repayment of tax exempt bonds			$ 143,000,000
Proceeds from tax-exempt bonds			143,000,000
Loss on early extinguishment of debt										(3,000,000)
Tax-exempt Bonds [Member] \| Variable Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Variable-rate tax-exempt bonds								$ 491,000,000		$ 491,000,000
2.4% Senior Notes Due May 2023 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument face amount			$ 500,000,000
Interest rate			2.40%
Maturity period			2023-05
2.6% Senior Notes Mature in September 2016 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate	2.60%
Maturity period	2016-09
Net proceeds from issuance of senior notes	$ 496,000,000
Net borrowings (repayments) of senior notes	$ (500,000,000)
Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Loss on early extinguishment of debt							$ (550,000,000)				(552,000,000)
Early extinguishment of high-coupon senior notes							$ 2,000,000,000				$ 2,000,000,000
2016 Canadian Credit Agreement [Member] \| Intercompany Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayment of debt				$ 370,000,000	$ 280,000,000	$ 370,000,000
Canadian Term Loan and Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Outstanding borrowings under credit facility												$ 0	$ 0
Credit Facility, aggregate capacity				$ 50,000,000		50,000,000
Letters of credit outstanding revolving credit facility												$ 0	$ 0
Maturity date of credit facility				Mar. 31, 2019
Minimum [Member] \| Tax-exempt Bonds [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate								0.70%		0.70%		0.70%
Minimum [Member] \| Canadian Term Loan and Credit Facility [Member] \| London Interbank Offered Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Spread rate										0.875%
Maximum [Member] \| Tax-exempt Bonds [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate								5.70%		5.70%		5.70%
Maximum [Member] \| Canadian Term Loan and Credit Facility [Member] \| London Interbank Offered Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Spread rate										1.50%
Cash [Member] \| Tax-exempt Bonds [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayment of tax exempt bonds										$ 146,000,000
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Outstanding borrowings under credit facility								$ 426,000,000		426,000,000
Credit Facility, aggregate capacity								2,250,000,000		2,250,000,000
Outstanding borrowings under credit facility classified as long-term								196,000,000		196,000,000
Letters of credit outstanding revolving credit facility								789,000,000		789,000,000
Credit Facility, remaining capacity								1,035,000,000		$ 1,035,000,000
Maturity date of credit facility										Jul. 30, 2020
Net borrowings (repayments)										$ 406,000,000
Domestic Line of Credit [Member] \| Minimum [Member] \| London Interbank Offered Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Spread rate										0.805%
Domestic Line of Credit [Member] \| Maximum [Member] \| London Interbank Offered Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Spread rate										1.30%
Committed and Uncommitted [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Letters of credit outstanding revolving credit facility								492,000,000		$ 492,000,000
Canadian Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Credit Facility, aggregate capacity				$ 500,000,000		500,000,000
Credit Facility, remaining capacity				90,000,000		90,000,000
Net borrowings (repayments)					(20,000,000)	(27,000,000)		(105,000,000)	$ (139,000,000)
Canadian Term Loan [Member] \| 2016 Canadian Credit Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Net borrowings (repayments)					$ 347,000,000	460,000,000
Non Revolving Term Credit Facility [Member] \| 2016 Canadian Credit Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Credit Facility, aggregate capacity				$ 460,000,000		$ 460,000,000
Commercial Paper [Member] \| Revolving Credit Facility [Member] \| Commercial Paper Program [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Credit Facility, Borrowing Capacity		$ 1,500,000,000
Commercial paper, borrowings								$ 0		$ 0
Commercial Paper [Member] \| Revolving Credit Facility [Member] \| Maximum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt term		397 days

Debt - Summary of Requirements of Financial Covenants Contained in Revolving Credit Facilities (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument Covenant Compliance [Line Items]
Interest Coverage Ratio	2.75
Maximum [Member]
Debt Instrument Covenant Compliance [Line Items]
Debt to EBITDA ratio	3.50

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - Additional Information (Detail)	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2016 USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2014 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015 CAD ($)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Outstanding derivatives			$ 0
Currency Swaps [Member] \| Canada, Dollars
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Notional amount of derivatives for intercompany debt					$ 370,000,000
Foreign Currency Derivatives [Member] \| Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Cash received in termination of foreign exchange cross currency swaps	$ 67,000,000
Expense associated with termination of foreign exchange cross currency swaps	$ 8,000,000
Foreign Currency Derivatives [Member] \| Cash Flow Hedging [Member] \| Long-term other assets [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Foreign currency derivatives, Assets				$ 63,000,000
Foreign Currency Derivatives [Member] \| Cash Flow Hedging [Member] \| Current Other Assets [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Foreign currency derivatives, Assets				15,000,000
Forward Starting Interest Rate Swap [Member] \| Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Deferred losses, net of taxes, related to cash flow hedges included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)			$ 37,000,000	$ 43,000,000
Term of senior notes to amortize deferred losses			10 years
Notional amount of derivatives		$ 175,000,000
Cash paid to settle hedges		$ 36,000,000
Treasury Rate Locks [Member] \| Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Deferred losses scheduled to be reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive into interest expense over next 12 months, pre-tax			$ 10,000,000

Income Taxes - Provision for Income Taxes (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Current:
Federal	$ 443	$ 192	$ 414
State	88	50	61
Foreign	38	36	56
Current total	569	278	531
Deferred:
Federal	57	43	(89)
State	17	(17)	(33)
Foreign	(1)	4	4
Deferred total	73	30	(118)
Provision for income taxes	$ 642	$ 308	$ 413

Income Taxes - U.S. Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate Reconciled to Effective Rate (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income tax expense at U.S. federal statutory rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
Federal tax credits	(3.08%)	(5.49%)	(3.21%)
Taxing authority audit settlements and other tax adjustments	(0.53%)	(2.67%)	(1.59%)
State and local income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit	3.31%	3.20%	1.77%
Tax impact of impairments	0.80%	0.23%	0.46%
Tax impact of divestitures	0.26%	(0.34%)	(7.89%)
Tax rate differential on foreign income	(0.63%)	(0.99%)	(0.46%)
Other	0.10%	0.17%	(0.47%)
Provision for income taxes	35.23%	29.11%	23.61%

Income Taxes - Income Before Income Taxes Showing Domestic and Foreign Source (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Domestic	$ 1,681	$ 922	$ 1,601
Foreign	141	138	150
Income (loss) before income taxes	$ 1,822	$ 1,060	$ 1,751

Income Taxes - Additional information (Detail) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Equity in net losses of unconsolidated entities		$ 44,000,000	$ 38,000,000	$ 53,000,000
Interest expense		376,000,000	385,000,000	466,000,000
Other federal tax credits		14,000,000	15,000,000	13,000,000
Reduction in provision for income taxes due to tax audit settlements		(11,000,000)	(10,000,000)	(12,000,000)
Reduction in provision for income taxes due to state net operating losses and credits		10,000,000	17,000,000	16,000,000
Increase (decrease) to accruals and related deferred taxes		(10,000,000)	(18,000,000)	(24,000,000)
Increase (decrease) in provision for income taxes due to impairments		15,000,000	2,000,000	8,000,000
(Income) expense from divestitures		9,000,000	(7,000,000)	(515,000,000)
Unremitted earnings in foreign subsidiaries		950,000,000
Increase in valuation allowance		19,000,000
Net unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate in future period		69,000,000
Accrued interest		2,000,000	2,000,000	1,000,000
Accrued interest in balance sheet		5,000,000	3,000,000
Unrecognized tax benefits related to accrued liabilities or expense for penalties		0	0	0
Liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits including accrued interest that may be reversed within the next 12 months		7,000,000
Deferred tax assets related to unrecognized tax benefits that may be reversed within the next 12 months		$ 3,000,000
Wheelabrator [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
(Income) expense from divestitures	$ 7,000,000			(519,000,000)
2014 Audit [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Expected time of completion of IRS audits		9 months
2015 Audit [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Expected time of completion of IRS audits		12 months
2016 Audit [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Expected time of completion of IRS audits		18 months
2017 Audit [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Expected time of completion of IRS audits		30 months
Tax Implications [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Hypothetical tax expense (benefit) associated with gain on sale of business		$ (5,000,000)
(Income) expense from divestitures		9,000,000
Tax Implications [Member] \| Wheelabrator [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Hypothetical tax expense (benefit) associated with gain on sale of business			4,000,000	138,000,000
(Income) expense from divestitures			(10,000,000)	(515,000,000)
Federal [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Net operating loss carry-forwards		$ 25,000,000
Operating loss carry-forwards, expiration date		Dec. 31, 2036
Capital loss carry-forward		$ 453,000,000
Capital loss carry-forward, expiration year one		2019
Capital loss carry-forward, expiration year two		2021
State [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Net operating loss carry-forwards		$ 2,000,000,000
Operating loss carry-forwards, expiration date		Dec. 31, 2036
State tax credit carry-forward		$ 24,000,000
Investments Qualifying for Federal Tax Credits [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Equity in net losses of unconsolidated entities		31,000,000	30,000,000	32,000,000
Interest expense		3,000,000	4,000,000	5,000,000
Income tax benefit, including tax credits, from equity method investment		$ 55,000,000	$ 57,000,000	$ 58,000,000

Income Taxes - Components of Net Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities) (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss, capital loss and tax credit carry-forwards	$ 285	$ 280
Landfill and environmental remediation liabilities	116	120
Miscellaneous and other reserves, net	355	373
Subtotal	756	773
Valuation allowance	(292)	(273)
Deferred tax liabilities:
Property and equipment	(728)	(709)
Goodwill and other intangibles	(1,218)	(1,182)
Net deferred tax liabilities	$ (1,482)	$ (1,391)

Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Amount of Gross Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Including Accrued interest (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Balance beginning	$ 71	$ 42	$ 49
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year	19	18	9
Additions based on tax positions of prior years	4	21	2
Accrued interest	2	2	1
Reductions for tax positions of prior years	(7)	(1)
Settlements		(3)	(11)
Lapse of statute of limitations	(7)	(8)	(8)
Balance ending	$ 82	$ 71	$ 42

Employee Benefit Plans - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Employee waiting period after hire to participate in the defined contribution plans		90 days
Employee maximum contribution towards defined contribution plans as percentage of annual compensation		50.00%	25.00%
Employee maximum contribution towards defined contribution plans as percentage of annual incentive plan bonus		80.00%
Employer's match in cash of non-union employee contributions on first specified percentage of eligible compensation		100.00%
First percentage of eligible compensation on which specified percentage of non-union employee contribution is matched by the employer in cash		3.00%
Employer's match in cash of non-union employee contributions on next specified percentage of eligible compensation		50.00%
Next percentage of eligible compensation on which specified percentage of non-union employee contribution is matched by the employer in cash		3.00%
Employer maximum match of non-union employee contribution on eligible compensation		4.50%
Operating, selling, general and administrative expenses for our defined contribution plans		$ 64,000,000	$ 61,000,000	$ 63,000,000
Accrued benefit liabilities for defined benefit pension and other post retirement plans		37,000,000	56,000,000
Contributions to Multiemployer Plan		47,000,000	43,000,000	44,000,000
Multiemployer Health and Welfare Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Contributions to Multiemployer Plan		40,000,000	33,000,000	34,000,000
Withdrawal from Multiemployer Pension Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Charge to "Operating" expenses	$ 55,000,000	0	51,000,000	$ 4,000,000
Pension Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Combined accumulated benefit obligation of pension plans		114,000,000	116,000,000
Plan assets of pension plans		103,000,000	88,000,000
Unfunded benefit obligation		11,000,000	28,000,000
Other Postretirement Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Unfunded benefit obligation		$ 26,000,000	$ 28,000,000

Employee Benefit Plans - Individually Significant Multiemployer Pension Plans (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Total Company Contributions to Individually Significant Plans	$ 40	$ 37	$ 37
Contributions to other Multi Employer Pension Plans	7	6	7
Company Contributions	$ 47	$ 43	44
Automotive Industries Pension Plan [Member]
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
EIN	941133245
Pension Plan Number	001
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Red	Red
FIP/RP Status	Implemented
Expiration date of Collective-Bargaining Agreement	Various dates through 6/30/2018
Company Contributions	$ 1	$ 1	1
Distributors Association Warehousemen's Pension Trust [Member]
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
EIN	940294755
Pension Plan Number	002
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Red	Red
FIP/RP Status	Implemented
Expiration date of Collective-Bargaining Agreement	4/7/2018
Company Contributions	$ 1	$ 1	1
Local 731 Private Scavengers and Garage Attendants Pension Trust Fund [Member]
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
EIN	366513567
Pension Plan Number	001
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Green	Yellow
FIP/RP Status	Implemented
Expiration date of Collective-Bargaining Agreement	9/30/2018
Company Contributions	$ 7	$ 7	6
Suburban Teamsters of Northern Illinois Pension Plan [Member]
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
EIN	366155778
Pension Plan Number	001
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Yellow	Red
FIP/RP Status	Implemented
Expiration date of Collective-Bargaining Agreement	Various dates through 9/30/2017
Company Contributions	$ 3	$ 2	3
Teamsters Local 301 Pension Plan [Member]
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
EIN	366492992
Pension Plan Number	001
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Green	Green
FIP/RP Status	NA
Expiration date of Collective-Bargaining Agreement	9/30/2018
Company Contributions	$ 2	$ 1	1
Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan [Member]
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
EIN	916145047
Pension Plan Number	001
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Green	Green
FIP/RP Status	NA
Expiration date of Collective-Bargaining Agreement	Various dates through 12/31/2019
Company Contributions	$ 25	$ 24	24
Western Pennsylvania Teamsters and Employers Pension Plan [Member]
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
EIN	256029946
Pension Plan Number	001
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	Red	Red
FIP/RP Status	Implemented
Expiration date of Collective-Bargaining Agreement	12/31/2016; 90-day extension with agreements currently under negotiation
Company Contributions	$ 1	$ 1	$ 1

Employee Benefit Plans - Individually Significant Multiemployer Pension Plans (Parenthetical) (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
High end of funded percentage of multiemployer plans in critical status	65.00%
High end of funded percentage of multiemployer plans in endangered status	80.00%
Surcharge percentage during first twelve months on contribution rates for plans certified as endangered, seriously endangered or critical	5.00%
Period for which surcharge is 5% on contribution rates for plans certified as endangered, seriously endangered or critical	12 months
Surcharge percentage after first twelve months on contribution rates for plans certified as endangered, seriously endangered or critical	10.00%
Description of multiemployer defined benefit pension plan	A Multiemployer Pension Plan that has been certified as endangered, seriously endangered or critical may begin to levy a statutory surcharge on contribution rates. Once authorized, the surcharge is at the rate of 5% for the first 12 months and 10% for any periods thereafter. Contributing employers, however, may eliminate the surcharge by entering into a collective bargaining agreement that meets the requirements of the applicable FIP or RP.
Minimum percentage of total contributions provided by the Company relating to multiemployer plans	5.00%
Minimum [Member]
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Projected insolvency period	15 years
Maximum [Member]
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Projected insolvency period	20 years

Employee Benefit Plans - Multiemployer Pension Plans and Year with Employer's Total Contribution Greater Than 5% (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Distributors Association Warehousemen's Pension Trust [Member]
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Year Contributions to Plan Exceeded 5% of Total Contributions (as of Plan's Year End)	5/31/2015 and 5/31/2014
Local 731 Private Scavengers and Garage Attendants Pension Trust Fund [Member]
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Year Contributions to Plan Exceeded 5% of Total Contributions (as of Plan's Year End)	9/30/2015 and 9/30/2014
Suburban Teamsters of Northern Illinois Pension Plan [Member]
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Year Contributions to Plan Exceeded 5% of Total Contributions (as of Plan's Year End)	12/31/2015 and 12/31/2014
Teamsters Local 301 Pension Plan [Member]
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Year Contributions to Plan Exceeded 5% of Total Contributions (as of Plan's Year End)	12/31/2015 and 12/31/2014

Commitments and Contingencies - Additional information (Detail)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2015 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($) site Landfill Homeowners	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014 USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2016 USD ($)
Commitments And Contingencies [Line Items]
Maximum self insurance exposures per incident under general liability insurance program		$ 2,500,000
Maximum self insurance exposures per incident under workers' compensation insurance program		5,000,000
Per incident base deductible under auto liability insurance program		5,000,000
Per incident additional deductible under auto liability insurance		4,800,000
Low end of layer subject to additional deductibles of auto liability insurance		5,000,000
High end of layer subject to additional deductible of auto liability insurance		10,000,000
Rental expense		125,000,000	$ 140,000,000	$ 159,000,000
Minimum contractual payments for operating leases in 2017		109,000,000
Minimum contractual payments for operating leases in 2018		90,000,000
Minimum contractual payments for operating leases in 2019		73,000,000
Minimum contractual payments for operating leases in 2020		62,000,000
Minimum contractual payments for operating leases in 2021		44,000,000
Minimum contractual payments for operating leases thereafter		306,000,000
Estimated minimum purchase obligation in 2017		179,000,000
Estimated minimum purchase obligation in 2018		149,000,000
Estimated minimum purchase obligation in 2019		112,000,000
Estimated minimum purchase obligation in 2020		92,000,000
Estimated minimum purchase obligation in 2021		88,000,000
Estimated minimum purchase obligation in thereafter		336,000,000
Maximum future payments regarding guarantees of unconsolidated entities financial obligations		$ 6,000,000
Approximate number of homeowners' properties adjacent to or near certain of our landfills with agreements guaranteeing market value \| Homeowners		850
Number of landfills adjacent to or near homeowners' properties with agreements guaranteeing market value \| Landfill		22
Number of sites listed on the EPA's NPL for which we have been notified we are a PRP \| site		75
Number of owned sites listed on the EPA's NPL for which we have been notified we are a PRP \| site		15
Number of non-owned sites listed on the EPA's NPL for which we have been notified we are a PRP \| site		60
Increase in cost estimate associated with environmental remediation liability		$ 44,000,000
Approximate percentage of workforce covered by collective bargaining agreements		20.00%
Withdrawal from Multiemployer Pension Plans [Member]
Commitments And Contingencies [Line Items]
Charge to "Operating" expenses	$ 55,000,000	$ 0	51,000,000	$ 4,000,000
WM's Senior Indebtedness [Member]
Commitments And Contingencies [Line Items]
Maturity date of senior indebtedness		2045
WM Holdings Senior Indebtedness [Member]
Commitments And Contingencies [Line Items]
Maturity date of senior indebtedness		2026
Disposal [Member]
Commitments And Contingencies [Line Items]
Purchase agreements expiring through the period		2052
Waste Paper [Member]
Commitments And Contingencies [Line Items]
Purchase agreements expiring through the period		2019
Wheelabrator [Member]
Commitments And Contingencies [Line Items]
Maximum future payments regarding guarantees of unconsolidated entities financial obligations		$ 96,000,000	106,000,000
Operational and financial performance obligations, net liability		11,000,000	$ 13,000,000
Maximum [Member]
Commitments And Contingencies [Line Items]
Dollar threshold for environmental matters requiring disclosure under item 103 of the SEC's Regulation S-K		100,000
Domestic Line of Credit [Member]
Commitments And Contingencies [Line Items]
Credit Facility, aggregate capacity		$ 2,250,000,000			$ 2,250,000,000

Commitments and Contingencies - Changes to Net Insurance Liabilities (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Contingencies And Commitments [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	$ 425	$ 414	$ 393
Self-insurance expense (benefit)	101	130	126
Cash (paid) received	(109)	(119)	(105)
Ending Balance	417	425	414
Current portion at December 31, 2016	113
Long-term portion at December 31, 2016	304
Gross Claims Liability [Member]
Contingencies And Commitments [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	643	597	590
Self-insurance expense (benefit)	71	169	135
Cash (paid) received	(126)	(123)	(128)
Ending Balance	588	643	597
Current portion at December 31, 2016	133
Long-term portion at December 31, 2016	455
Receivables Associated with Insured Claims [Member]
Contingencies And Commitments [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	(218)	(183)	(197)
Self-insurance expense (benefit)	30	(39)	(9)
Cash (paid) received	17	4	23
Ending Balance	(171)	$ (218)	$ (183)
Current portion at December 31, 2016	(20)
Long-term portion at December 31, 2016	$ (151)

Commitments and Contingencies - Changes to Net Insurance Liabilities (Parenthetical) (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Expected time period in years for cash settlement of substantially all recorded obligations associated with insurance liabilities	6 years

Restructuring Costs - Restructuring Charges Pre Tax by Segment (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges, Total	$ 8	$ 4	$ 15	$ 82
Corporate and Other [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges, Total			1	71
Solid Waste [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges, Total		$ 4	$ 14	10
Wheelabrator [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges, Total				$ 1

Restructuring Costs - Additional Information (Detail) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014 Employees	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014 USD ($)
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Pre-tax restructuring charges		$ 8	$ 4	$ 15	$ 82
Pre-tax restructuring charges related to employee severance and benefit costs			$ 2	$ 10	$ 70
Number of employee positions eliminated \| Employees	650

Asset Impairments and Unusual Items - Components of (Income) Expense from Divestitures, Asset Impairments and Unusual Items (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Unusual or Infrequent Items, or Both [Abstract]
(Income) expense from divestitures	$ 9	$ (7)	$ (515)
Asset impairments	59	89	355
Other	44
(Income) expense from divestitures, asset impairments and unusual items	$ 112	$ 82	$ (160)

Asset Impairments and Unusual Items - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended				12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Expense From Divestitures Asset Impairments And Unusual Items [Line Items]
(Income) expense from divestitures, asset impairments and unusual items					$ 112	$ 82	$ (160)
Impairment charges					59	89	355
Increase in cost estimate associated with environmental remediation liability					44
Goodwill impairment charges					12
(Income) expense from divestitures					9	(7)	(515)
Lamp Tracker Reporting Unit [Member]
Income Expense From Divestitures Asset Impairments And Unusual Items [Line Items]
Goodwill impairment charges	$ 10				12
Investment In Majority Owned Organics Company [Member]
Income Expense From Divestitures Asset Impairments And Unusual Items [Line Items]
(Income) expense from divestitures	8				8
Recycling Operations [Member]
Income Expense From Divestitures Asset Impairments And Unusual Items [Line Items]
Impairment charges						18
Goodwill impairment charges							10
Waste Diversion Technology, Renewable Energy, Recycling, and Medical Waste Operations [Member]
Income Expense From Divestitures Asset Impairments And Unusual Items [Line Items]
Impairment charges							73
Investment in Waste Diversion Technology Company [Member]
Income Expense From Divestitures Asset Impairments And Unusual Items [Line Items]
Impairment charge							11
Impairment charge relating to decline in value of minority-owned investment		$ 4			42	5	22
Oil and Gas Well [Member]
Income Expense From Divestitures Asset Impairments And Unusual Items [Line Items]
(Income) expense from divestitures			$ (6)
Impairment of oil and gas producing property to its estimated fair value		$ 70				66	272
Puerto Rico Operations [Member]
Income Expense From Divestitures Asset Impairments And Unusual Items [Line Items]
(Income) expense from divestitures							25
Eastern Canada Area [Member] \| Landfill [Member]
Income Expense From Divestitures Asset Impairments And Unusual Items [Line Items]
(Income) expense from divestitures							(18)
Wheelabrator [Member]
Income Expense From Divestitures Asset Impairments And Unusual Items [Line Items]
(Income) expense from divestitures				$ 7			(519)
Proceeds from divestitures of businesses and other assets (net of cash divested)							$ 155
Western Canada Area [Member] \| Landfill [Member]
Income Expense From Divestitures Asset Impairments And Unusual Items [Line Items]
Impairment charges						$ 5
Western Pennsylvania [Member] \| Landfill [Member]
Income Expense From Divestitures Asset Impairments And Unusual Items [Line Items]
Impairment charges	43				43
San Jacinto Waste Pits [Member]
Income Expense From Divestitures Asset Impairments And Unusual Items [Line Items]
Increase in cost estimate associated with environmental remediation liability	$ 42				$ 44

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Beginning balance	$ (127)	$ 23	$ 154
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, net of tax	24	(134)	(108)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss net of tax	23	(16)	(23)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes	47	(150)	(131)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Ending balance	(80)	(127)	23
Derivative Instruments [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Beginning balance	(52)	(61)	(62)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, net of tax	(7)	30	6
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss net of tax	19	(21)	(5)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes	12	9	1
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Ending balance	(40)	(52)	(61)
Available-for-Sale Securities [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Beginning balance	8	10	6
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, net of tax	5	(2)	4
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes	5	(2)	4
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Ending balance	13	8	10
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Beginning balance	(75)	84	208
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, net of tax	26	(164)	(107)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss net of tax	2	5	(17)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes	28	(159)	(124)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Ending balance	(47)	(75)	84
Post - Retirement Benefit Obligation [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Beginning balance	(8)	(10)	2
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, net of tax		2	(11)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss net of tax	2		(1)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes	2	2	(12)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Ending balance	$ (6)	$ (8)	$ (10)

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Parenthetical) (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss), tax	$ (4)	$ 20	$ 4
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss, tax	12	(14)	(3)
Available-for-Sale Securities [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss), tax	3	(1)	2
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss, tax	0	0	0
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss), tax	0	0	0
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss, tax	0	0	0
Post - Retirement Benefit Obligation [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss), tax	0	1	(8)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss, tax	$ 1	$ 0	$ 0

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Before Reclassifications Associated With the Effective Portion of Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges (Detail) - Derivative Instruments [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss) on derivatives before tax	$ (11)	$ 50	$ 10
Tax (provision) benefit	4	(20)	(4)
Net of tax (provision) benefit	(7)	30	6
Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss) on derivatives before tax			(8)
Foreign Currency Derivatives [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss) on derivatives before tax	$ (11)	$ 50	23
Electricity Commodity Derivatives [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss) on derivatives before tax			$ (5)

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Reclassification of Component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Associated with Cash Flow Hedges (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Other, net									$ (50)	$ (7)	$ (29)
Operating revenues	$ 3,460	$ 3,548	$ 3,425	$ 3,176	$ 3,246	$ 3,360	$ 3,315	$ 3,040	13,609	12,961	13,996
Income (loss) before income taxes									1,822	1,060	1,751
Tax (provision) benefit									(642)	(308)	(413)
Total reclassifications for the period, Net of tax	$ 334	$ 304	$ 286	$ 256	$ 273	$ 337	$ 273	$ (131)	1,180	752	1,338
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] \| Derivative Instruments [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Income (loss) before income taxes									(31)	35	8
Tax (provision) benefit									12	(14)	(3)
Total reclassifications for the period, Net of tax									(19)	21	5
Interest Rate Swaps [Member] \| Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] \| Derivative Instruments [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Interest expense, net									(10)	(12)	(10)
Treasury Rate Locks [Member] \| Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] \| Derivative Instruments [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Interest expense, net									(1)	(4)	(1)
Foreign Currency Derivatives [Member] \| Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] \| Derivative Instruments [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Other, net									$ (20)	$ 51	27
Electricity Commodity Derivatives [Member] \| Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] \| Derivative Instruments [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Operating revenues											$ (8)

Capital Stock, Dividends and Common Stock Repurchase Program - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Nov. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Stock Repurchase Program [Line Items]
Common stock, shares authorized	1,500,000,000		1,500,000,000	1,500,000,000
Common stock, par value	$ 0.01		$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares issued	630,282,461		630,282,461	630,282,461
Common stock, shares outstanding	439,300,000		439,300,000	447,200,000	458,500,000
Preferred stock shares authorized	10,000,000		10,000,000
Preferred stock par value per share	$ 0.01		$ 0.01
Preferred stock shares outstanding	0		0
Cash dividends			$ 726,000,000	$ 695,000,000	$ 693,000,000
Cash dividends declared and paid per common share	$ 0.41		$ 1.64	$ 1.54	$ 1.50
Common stock repurchases			$ 725,000,000	$ 600,000,000	$ 600,000,000
Maximum capital allocated for repurchases of shares	$ 750,000,000		750,000,000
Additional Paid-In Capital [Member]
Stock Repurchase Program [Line Items]
Common stock repurchases			45,000,000	(180,000,000)	$ 180,000,000
Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement (ASR) [Member]
Stock Repurchase Program [Line Items]
Common stock repurchases		$ 225,000,000		$ 600,000,000
Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement (ASR) [Member] \| Additional Paid-In Capital [Member]
Stock Repurchase Program [Line Items]
Common stock repurchases			$ 45,000,000
Dividend Declared [Member]
Stock Repurchase Program [Line Items]
Expected quarterly common stock dividend per share declared	$ 0.425
Dividends Payable, Year	2017		2017

Capital Stock, Dividends and Common Stock Repurchase Program - Share Repurchases under Common Stock Repurchase Programs (Detail) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
Shares repurchased	11,241	14,823	9,569
Weighted average per share purchase price	$ 60.49	$ 49.83	$ 43.89
Total repurchases	$ 725	$ 600	$ 600

Capital Stock, Dividends and Common Stock Repurchase Program - Share Repurchases under Common Stock Repurchase Programs (Parenthetical) (Detail) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	1 Months Ended			12 Months Ended
	Feb. 28, 2017	Nov. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Stock Repurchase Programs [Line Items]
Cash paid for repurchase of common stock				$ 725	$ 600	$ 600
Common stock repurchases				$ 725	$ 600	$ 600
Shares of common stock received under ASR				11,241	14,823	9,569
Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement (ASR) [Member]
Stock Repurchase Programs [Line Items]
Accelerated share repurchase, price per share		$ 63.41
Cash paid for repurchase of common stock			$ 225	$ 725
Common stock repurchases		$ 225			$ 600
Shares of common stock received under ASR		2,800			2,800
Common stock repurchases						$ 600
Subsequent Event [Member] \| Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement (ASR) [Member]
Stock Repurchase Programs [Line Items]
Shares of common stock received under ASR	400
Weighted Average [Member]
Stock Repurchase Programs [Line Items]
Final weighted average per share purchase price during the repurchase period					$ 48.58
Weighted Average [Member] \| Subsequent Event [Member] \| Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement (ASR) [Member]
Stock Repurchase Programs [Line Items]
Final weighted average per share purchase price during the repurchase period	$ 69.43

Stock-Based Compensation - Additional Information (Detail) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Feb. 29, 2016 shares	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($) OfferingPeriods $ / shares shares	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($) $ / shares shares	Dec. 31, 2014 USD ($) $ / shares shares	May 31, 2014 shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Cash proceeds received		$ 63	$ 77	$ 93
Excess tax benefits associated with employee stock plan		$ 28	15	5
2014 Stock Incentive Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares available under employee stock plans \| shares		23,200,000
Maximum number of shares authorized for issuance under stock incentive plan \| shares					23,800,000
2009 Stock Incentive Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares available under employee stock plans \| shares					1,100,000
Employee Stock Incentive Plans [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Increase in annual compensation expense due to employee stock plan		$ 81	64	59
Deferred income tax benefits included in provision for income taxes		32	26	23
Excess tax benefits associated with employee stock plan		28	$ 15	$ 5
Currently unrecognized compensation expense that will be recognized in future periods for unvested RSU, PSU and stock option awards issued and outstanding		$ 51
Weighted average period of under which unrecognized compensation expenses associated with all unvested awards currently outstanding is expected to be recognized		1 year 6 months
Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period		30 days
Price at which employees are able to purchase shares of common stock of company at end of each offering period		85.00%
The number of shares newly issued during the reporting period under the plan \| shares		647,000	786,000	774,000
Shares available under employee stock plans \| shares		2,500,000
Number of offering periods \| OfferingPeriods		2
Increase in annual compensation expense due to employee stock plan		$ 7	$ 6	$ 6
Increase in annual compensation expense due to employee stock plan, net of tax		$ 4	4	4
Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period		3 years
The number of shares newly issued during the reporting period under the plan \| shares		136,000
Total fair market value of vested awards		$ 12	13	3
Vested deferred units outstanding \| shares		69,000
Number of units vested during the year \| shares		205,000
Performance Share Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period		3 years
The number of shares newly issued during the reporting period under the plan \| shares	547,000
Total fair market value of vested awards		$ 50	35	8
Range of performance share units awarded at end of three year period range		0% to 200% of the targeted amount
Range of potential payout percentage of performance share units awarded at end of three year period range		100.00%
Number of units vested during the year \| shares	1,093,000	664,000
Performance Share Units [Member] \| Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Range of potential payout percentage of performance share units awarded at end of three year period range		0.00%
Performance Share Units [Member] \| Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Range of potential payout percentage of performance share units awarded at end of three year period range		200.00%
Performance Share Units [Member] \| First Anniversary [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vested shares issued, percentage of the established target		196.15%
Deferred Units [Member] \| Employee Stock Incentive Plans [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vested deferred units outstanding \| shares		698,000
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Employee stock option description of vesting methods		Vest in 25% increments on the first two anniversaries of the date of grant with the remaining 50% vesting on the third anniversary
Term of options		10 years
Cash proceeds received		$ 63	77	93
Aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercised		$ 67	$ 37	$ 27
Fair value of stock options granted \| $ / shares		$ 6.31	$ 5.56	$ 4.55
Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, fair value assumptions, method used		Black-Scholes option pricing model
Stock Options [Member] \| First Anniversary [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period		12 months
Vested shares issued, percentage of the established target		25.00%
Stock Options [Member] \| Second Anniversary [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period		12 months
Vested shares issued, percentage of the established target		25.00%
Stock Options [Member] \| Third Anniversary [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period		12 months
Vested shares issued, percentage of the established target		50.00%
T S R Performance Shares [Member] \| First Anniversary [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vested shares issued, percentage of the established target		132.88%

Stock-Based Compensation - Summary of RSUs (Detail) - Restricted Stock Units [Member] shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016 $ / shares shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unvested, Units, beginning of year \| shares	524
Granted, Units \| shares	186
Vested, Units \| shares	(205)
Forfeited, Units \| shares	(15)
Unvested, Units, end of year \| shares	490
Unvested, Weighted Average Per Share Fair Value, beginning of year \| $ / shares	$ 43.76
Granted, Weighted Average Per Share Fair Value \| $ / shares	57.38
Vested, Weighted Average Per Share Fair Value \| $ / shares	37.45
Forfeited, Weighted Average Per Share Fair Value \| $ / shares	51.17
Unvested, Weighted Average Per Share Fair Value, end of year \| $ / shares	$ 51.32

Stock-Based Compensation - Summary of PSUs (Detail) - Performance Share Units [Member] - $ / shares shares in Thousands	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Feb. 29, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unvested, Units, beginning of year		1,762
Granted, Units		555
Vested, Units	(1,093)	(664)
Forfeited, Units		(148)
Unvested, Units, end of year		1,505
Unvested, Weighted Average Per Share Fair Value, beginning of year		$ 52.90
Granted, Weighted Average Per Share Fair Value		79.27
Vested, Weighted Average Per Share Fair Value		48.38
Forfeited, Weighted Average Per Share Fair Value		76.01
Unvested, Weighted Average Per Share Fair Value, end of year		$ 68.98

Stock-Based Compensation - Summary of Stock Options (Detail) - Stock Options [Member] shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016 $ / shares shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Outstanding shares, beginning of year \| shares	7,507
Granted, shares \| shares	1,387
Exercised, shares \| shares	(2,645)
Forfeited or expired, shares \| shares	(606)
Outstanding shares, end of year \| shares	5,643
Exercisable shares, end of year \| shares	2,921
Outstanding, Weighted Average Per Share Fair Value, beginning of year \| $ / shares	$ 40.80
Granted, Weighted Average Per Share Fair Value \| $ / shares	56.24
Exercised, Weighted Average Per Share Fair Value \| $ / shares	37.20
Forfeited or expired, Weighted Average Per Share Fair Value \| $ / shares	51.70
Outstanding, Weighted Average Per Share Fair Value, end of year \| $ / shares	45.12
Exercisable, Weighted Average Per Share Fair Value, end of year \| $ / shares	$ 38.84

Stock-Based Compensation - Summary of Stock Options (Parenthetical) (Detail) - Stock Options [Member] $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Weighted average remaining contractual term of stock options outstanding	6 years 10 months 24 days
Aggregate intrinsic value of stock options outstanding based on the market value of company's common stock	$ 146
Aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercisable based on the market value of company's common stock	$ 94

Stock-Based Compensation - Summary of Exercisable Stock Options (Detail) shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016 $ / shares shares
$32.315-$40.00 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock Options Exercisable (in shares) \| shares	2,141
Exercisable, weighted average per share exercise price \| $ / shares	$ 36.12
Weighted average remaining years	4 years 10 months 24 days
$40.01-$50.00 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock Options Exercisable (in shares) \| shares	491
Exercisable, weighted average per share exercise price \| $ / shares	$ 41.36
Weighted average remaining years	7 years 2 months 12 days
$50.01-$54.635 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock Options Exercisable (in shares) \| shares	289
Exercisable, weighted average per share exercise price \| $ / shares	$ 54.64
Weighted average remaining years	8 years 2 months 12 days
$32.315-$54.635 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock Options Exercisable (in shares) \| shares	2,921
Exercisable, weighted average per share exercise price \| $ / shares	$ 38.84
Weighted average remaining years	5 years 7 months 6 days

Stock-Based Compensation - Weighted Average Assumptions Used to Value Employee Stock Options Granted (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Expected option life	4 years 8 months 12 days	4 years 4 months 24 days	4 years 9 months 18 days
Expected volatility	18.40%	16.70%	18.40%
Expected dividend yield	2.90%	2.80%	3.60%
Risk-free interest rate	1.30%	1.40%	1.60%

Earnings Per Share - Common Share Data Used for Computing Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share (Detail) - shares shares in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Number of common shares outstanding at year-end	439.3	447.2	458.5
Effect of using weighted average common shares outstanding	4.2	5.5	4.1
Weighted average basic common shares outstanding	443.5	452.7	462.6
Dilutive effect of equity-based compensation awards and other contingently issuable shares	3.0	3.2	3.0
Weighted average diluted common shares outstanding	446.5	455.9	465.6
Potentially issuable shares	9.8	10.2	11.3
Number of anti-dilutive potentially issuable shares excluded from diluted common shares outstanding	1.0	2.0	0.4

Fair Value Measurements - Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis (Detail) - Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets	$ 174	$ 243
Money Market Funds [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Money market funds	35	35
Available-for-sale Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities	46	43
Fixed-Income Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments	39	40
Redeemable Preferred Stock [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments	54	47
Foreign Currency Derivatives [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Foreign currency derivatives		78
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets	85	161
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] \| Available-for-sale Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities	46	43
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] \| Fixed-Income Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments	39	40
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] \| Foreign Currency Derivatives [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Foreign currency derivatives		78
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets	54	47
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member] \| Redeemable Preferred Stock [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments	54	47
Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total assets	35	35
Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) [Member] \| Money Market Funds [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Money market funds	$ 35	$ 35

Fair Value Measurements - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Carrying value of debt	$ 9,310,000,000		$ 8,929,000,000
Net borrowings	375,000,000
Reported Value Measurement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Carrying value of debt	9,300,000,000		8,900,000,000
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Fair value of debt	9,700,000,000		$ 9,200,000,000
Domestic Line of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility	$ 2,250,000,000	$ 2,250,000,000

Acquisitions and Divestitures - Additional Information (Detail)				3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Jan. 08, 2016 USD ($)	Mar. 26, 2015 USD ($)	Dec. 19, 2014 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2016 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016 USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2016 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2015 USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2015 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($) Business	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($) Business	Dec. 31, 2014 USD ($) Business
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total consideration, net of cash acquired, for business acquisitions closed during the year												$ 604,000,000	$ 646,000,000	$ 32,000,000
Business acquisitions closed during the year, cash payments												581,000,000	537,000,000	26,000,000
Other consideration												23,000,000
Purchase price holdbacks paid for acquisitions closed in current year				$ 16,000,000								16,000,000
Contingent consideration paid for acquisitions closed in previous year												4,000,000	4,000,000	5,000,000
Purchase price holdbacks paid in current period				26,000,000								26,000,000
Allocation of consideration to property and equipment				115,000,000				$ 243,000,000				115,000,000	243,000,000	6,000,000
Allocation of consideration to other intangible assets				212,000,000				145,000,000				212,000,000	145,000,000	9,000,000
Allocation of consideration to goodwill				280,000,000				325,000,000				280,000,000	325,000,000	17,000,000
Total goodwill				6,215,000,000				5,984,000,000				6,215,000,000	5,984,000,000	5,740,000,000
Total operating revenues				3,460,000,000	$ 3,548,000,000	$ 3,425,000,000	$ 3,176,000,000	3,246,000,000	$ 3,360,000,000	$ 3,315,000,000	$ 3,040,000,000	13,609,000,000	12,961,000,000	13,996,000,000
Contingent consideration outstanding				37,000,000				96,000,000				37,000,000	96,000,000
Decrease in contingent consideration												(47,000,000)
Estimated fair value of liability for additional cash payments related to acquisitions								96,000,000					96,000,000	6,000,000
Contingent consideration paid for acquisitions closed in current year													13,000,000	4,000,000
Purchase price holdbacks								13,000,000					13,000,000
Tax deductible, goodwill								166,000,000					166,000,000
Non tax deductible, goodwill								159,000,000					159,000,000
Aggregate sales prices for divestitures of operations												2,000,000	79,000,000	2,090,000,000
(Income) expense from divestitures												9,000,000	(7,000,000)	(515,000,000)
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Credit Facility, aggregate capacity				2,250,000,000								$ 2,250,000,000
Maximum [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Estimated fair value of liability for additional cash payments related to acquisitions								126,000,000					$ 126,000,000	6,000,000
Landfill [Member] \| Eastern Canada Area [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
(Income) expense from divestitures														$ (18,000,000)
Solid Waste [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of business acquired \| Business												30	27	15
Wheelabrator [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total operating revenues														$ 715,000,000
Aggregate sales prices for divestitures of operations			$ 1,950,000,000
(Income) expense from divestitures											$ 7,000,000			(519,000,000)
Cash [Member] \| Eastern Canada Area [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Aggregate sales prices for divestitures of operations														39,000,000
Puerto Rico Operations and Certain Other Collection and Landfill Assets [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Aggregate sales prices for divestitures of operations														80,000,000
(Income) expense from divestitures														25,000,000
Puerto Rico Operations and Certain Other Collection and Landfill Assets [Member] \| Redeemable Preferred Stock [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Aggregate sales prices for divestitures of operations														15,000,000
Puerto Rico Operations and Certain Other Collection and Landfill Assets [Member] \| Cash [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Aggregate sales prices for divestitures of operations														65,000,000
Customer and Supplier Relationships [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Allocation of consideration to other intangible assets				185,000,000				131,000,000				$ 185,000,000	$ 131,000,000	7,000,000
Trade Name [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Allocation of consideration to other intangible assets				4,000,000				6,000,000				4,000,000	6,000,000
Non-compete Covenant [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Allocation of consideration to other intangible assets				$ 23,000,000				$ 8,000,000				23,000,000	$ 8,000,000	$ 2,000,000
Southern Waste Systems [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total consideration, net of cash acquired, for business acquisitions closed during the year	$ 525,000,000
Allocation of consideration to property and equipment	93,000,000
Allocation of consideration to other intangible assets	182,000,000
Total goodwill	250,000,000
Total operating revenues												$ 148,000,000
Southern Waste Systems [Member] \| Trade Name [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Allocation of consideration to other intangible assets	4,000,000
Southern Waste Systems [Member] \| Non-compete Covenant [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Allocation of consideration to other intangible assets	$ 18,000,000
Deffenbaugh Disposal, Inc. [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total consideration, net of cash acquired, for business acquisitions closed during the year		$ 400,000,000
Allocation of consideration to other intangible assets		100,000,000
Allocation of consideration to goodwill		159,000,000
Deffenbaugh Disposal, Inc. [Member] \| Other Assets [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Allocation of consideration to other assets		50,000,000
Deffenbaugh Disposal, Inc. [Member] \| Total Liabilities [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Allocation of consideration to other assets		101,000,000
Deffenbaugh Disposal, Inc. [Member] \| Cash [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Allocation of consideration to cash acquired		15,000,000
Deffenbaugh Disposal, Inc. [Member] \| Property and Equipment [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Allocation of consideration to property and equipment		207,000,000
Deffenbaugh Disposal, Inc. [Member] \| Trade Name [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Allocation of consideration to other intangible assets		$ 6,000,000

Acquisitions and Divestitures - Schedule of Final Allocations of Purchase Price (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Jan. 08, 2016	Mar. 26, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other intangible assets subject to amortization, Amount			$ 212	$ 145	$ 9
Non-compete Covenant [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other intangible assets subject to amortization, Amount			23	8	$ 2
Trade Name [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other intangible assets subject to amortization, Amount			$ 4	$ 6
Deffenbaugh Disposal, Inc. [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other intangible assets subject to amortization, Amount		$ 100
Total other intangible assets subject to amortization, Weighted Average Amortization Periods		15 years
Deffenbaugh Disposal, Inc. [Member] \| Customer Relationships [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other intangible assets subject to amortization, Amount		$ 94
Total other intangible assets subject to amortization, Weighted Average Amortization Periods		15 years
Deffenbaugh Disposal, Inc. [Member] \| Non-compete Covenant [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other intangible assets subject to amortization, Weighted Average Amortization Periods		0 years
Deffenbaugh Disposal, Inc. [Member] \| Trade Name [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other intangible assets subject to amortization, Amount		$ 6
Total other intangible assets subject to amortization, Weighted Average Amortization Periods		15 years
Southern Waste Systems [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other intangible assets subject to amortization, Amount	$ 182
Total other intangible assets subject to amortization, Weighted Average Amortization Periods	9 years 6 months
Southern Waste Systems [Member] \| Customer Relationships [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other intangible assets subject to amortization, Amount	$ 160
Total other intangible assets subject to amortization, Weighted Average Amortization Periods	10 years
Southern Waste Systems [Member] \| Non-compete Covenant [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other intangible assets subject to amortization, Amount	$ 18
Total other intangible assets subject to amortization, Weighted Average Amortization Periods	5 years
Southern Waste Systems [Member] \| Trade Name [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other intangible assets subject to amortization, Amount	$ 4
Total other intangible assets subject to amortization, Weighted Average Amortization Periods	10 years

Acquisitions and Divestitures - Pro Forma Consolidated Results of Operations (Detail) - Deffenbaugh Disposal Inc And Southern Waste Systems [Member] - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Operating revenues	$ 13,611	$ 13,137
Net income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	$ 1,182	$ 751
Basic earnings per common share	$ 2.67	$ 1.66
Diluted earnings per common share	$ 2.65	$ 1.65

Variable Interest Entities - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2000	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Aggregate investment balance		$ 173	$ 186
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests		(2)	(1)	$ 40
Trust Funds for Final Capping Closure Post Closure or Environmental Remediation Obligations [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Carrying value of trusts for which company is not the sole beneficiary		93	93
Variable interest entities primary beneficiary trust fair value assets		95	94
Investment in Refined Coal Facility and Low Income Housing Properties [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Aggregate investment balance		84	110
Investment in Low-Income Housing Properties [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Equity method investments debt balance		$ 57	$ 80
Waste To Energy LLC [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests				$ 39
Waste To Energy LLC [Member] \| Waste To Energy LLC 1 [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Percentage of ownership in LLC's	0.50%
Percentage of variable interest entities owned by other companies	99.50%
Waste To Energy LLC [Member] \| Waste To Energy LLC II [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Percentage of ownership in LLC's	0.25%
Percentage of variable interest entities owned by other companies	99.75%

Segment and Related Information - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016 Areas
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of geographical areas	17
Solid Waste [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of geographical areas	17

Segment and Related Information - Reportable Segments (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues	$ 3,460	$ 3,548	$ 3,425	$ 3,176	$ 3,246	$ 3,360	$ 3,315	$ 3,040	$ 13,609	$ 12,961	$ 13,996
Income from operations	617	$ 560	$ 611	$ 508	502	$ 601	$ 502	$ 440	2,296	2,045	2,299
Depreciation and amortization									1,301	1,245	1,292
Capital Expenditures									1,347	1,229	1,181
Total Assets	20,859				20,367				20,859	20,367	21,252
Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues									16,246	15,350	16,457
Total Assets	21,137				20,906				21,137	20,906	21,843
Intercompany Operating Revenues [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues									(2,637)	(2,389)	(2,461)
Corporate and Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Income from operations									(550)	(522)	(769)
Depreciation and amortization									56	64	71
Capital Expenditures									45	56	74
Total Assets	1,401				1,783				1,401	1,783	2,805
Solid Waste: Tier 1 [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues									4,330	4,227	4,283
Income from operations									1,430	1,290	1,301
Depreciation and amortization									424	428	408
Capital Expenditures									452	382	388
Solid Waste: Tier 1 [Member] \| Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues									5,241	5,083	5,117
Total Assets	6,188				6,098				6,188	6,098	6,150
Solid Waste: Tier 1 [Member] \| Intercompany Operating Revenues [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues									(911)	(856)	(834)
Solid Waste: Tier 2 [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues									2,771	2,691	2,853
Income from operations									604	629	711
Depreciation and amortization									280	280	287
Capital Expenditures									295	251	223
Solid Waste: Tier 2 [Member] \| Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues									3,391	3,304	3,516
Total Assets	5,488				5,394				5,488	5,394	5,648
Solid Waste: Tier 2 [Member] \| Intercompany Operating Revenues [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues									(620)	(613)	(663)
Solid Waste: Tier 3 [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues									4,415	4,085	4,030
Income from operations									912	808	787
Depreciation and amortization									440	379	361
Capital Expenditures									451	412	351
Solid Waste: Tier 3 [Member] \| Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues									5,336	4,898	4,816
Total Assets	6,571				5,930				6,571	5,930	5,449
Solid Waste: Tier 3 [Member] \| Intercompany Operating Revenues [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues									(921)	(813)	(786)
Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues									2,093	1,958	2,115
Income from operations									(100)	(160)	(400)
Depreciation and amortization									101	94	128
Capital Expenditures									104	128	134
Other [Member] \| Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues									2,278	2,065	2,191
Total Assets	1,489				1,701				1,489	1,701	1,791
Other [Member] \| Intercompany Operating Revenues [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues									(185)	(107)	(76)
Wheelabrator [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues											715
Income from operations											669
Depreciation and amortization											37
Capital Expenditures											11
Wheelabrator [Member] \| Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues											817
Wheelabrator [Member] \| Intercompany Operating Revenues [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues											(102)
Operating Group Total [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues									13,609	12,961	13,996
Income from operations									2,846	2,567	3,068
Depreciation and amortization									1,245	1,181	1,221
Capital Expenditures									1,302	1,173	1,107
Operating Group Total [Member] \| Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues									16,246	15,350	16,457
Total Assets	$ 19,736				$ 19,123				19,736	19,123	19,038
Operating Group Total [Member] \| Intercompany Operating Revenues [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross Operating revenues									$ (2,637)	$ (2,389)	$ (2,461)

Segment and Related Information - Reportable Segments (Parenthetical) (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
(Income) expense from divestitures		$ 9	$ (7)	$ (515)
Assets		20,859	20,367	21,252
Goodwill, Beginning balance	$ 5,740	5,984	5,740
Acquired goodwill		280	325
Divested goodwill		(1)	(7)
Foreign currency translation		12	(74)
Goodwill, Ending balance		6,215	5,984	5,740
Impairments		(12)
Other adjustments		(48)
Solid Waste: Tier 1 [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Goodwill, Beginning balance	2,178	2,190	2,178
Acquired goodwill		11	27
Foreign currency translation		2	(15)
Goodwill, Ending balance		2,203	2,190	2,178
Solid Waste: Tier 2 [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Goodwill, Beginning balance	1,795	1,772	1,795
Acquired goodwill		12	42
Divested goodwill			(6)
Foreign currency translation		10	(59)
Goodwill, Ending balance		1,792	1,772	1,795
Other adjustments		(2)
Solid Waste: Tier 3 [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Goodwill, Beginning balance	1,662	1,812	1,662
Acquired goodwill		254	151
Divested goodwill		(1)	(1)
Goodwill, Ending balance		2,065	1,812	1,662
Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Goodwill, Beginning balance	105	210	105
Acquired goodwill		3	105
Goodwill, Ending balance		155	210	105
Impairments		(12)
Other adjustments		(46)
Wheelabrator [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
(Income) expense from divestitures	$ 7			(519)
Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets		21,137	20,906	21,843
Operating Segments [Member] \| Solid Waste: Tier 1 [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets		6,188	6,098	6,150
Operating Segments [Member] \| Solid Waste: Tier 2 [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets		5,488	5,394	5,648
Operating Segments [Member] \| Solid Waste: Tier 3 [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets		6,571	5,930	5,449
Operating Segments [Member] \| Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets		1,489	1,701	1,791
Elimination of Intercompany Investments and Advances [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets		$ (278)	$ (539)	$ (591)

Segment and Related Information - Total Revenues by Principal Line of Business (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues	$ 3,460	$ 3,548	$ 3,425	$ 3,176	$ 3,246	$ 3,360	$ 3,315	$ 3,040	$ 13,609	$ 12,961	$ 13,996
Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues									16,246	15,350	16,457
Operating Segments [Member] \| Commercial [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues									3,480	3,332	3,393
Operating Segments [Member] \| Residential [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues									2,487	2,499	2,543
Operating Segments [Member] \| Industrial [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues									2,412	2,252	2,231
Operating Segments [Member] \| Other Collection [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues									423	356	340
Operating Segments [Member] \| Collection [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues									8,802	8,439	8,507
Operating Segments [Member] \| Landfill [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues									3,110	2,919	2,849
Operating Segments [Member] \| Transfer [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues									1,512	1,377	1,353
Operating Segments [Member] \| Recycling [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues									1,221	1,163	1,370
Operating Segments [Member] \| Other Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues									1,601	1,452	1,561
Operating Segments [Member] \| Wheelabrator [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues											817
Intercompany Operating Revenues [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues									$ (2,637)	$ (2,389)	$ (2,461)

Segment and Related Information - Summary of Net Operating Revenues by Segment (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues	$ 3,460	$ 3,548	$ 3,425	$ 3,176	$ 3,246	$ 3,360	$ 3,315	$ 3,040	$ 13,609	$ 12,961	$ 13,996
United States and Puerto Rico [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues									12,915	12,196	13,064
Canada [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues									$ 694	$ 765	$ 932

Segment and Related Information - Summary of Property and Equipment Net of Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization Relating to Operations by Segment (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Property and equipment, net	$ 10,950	$ 10,665	$ 10,657
United States and Puerto Rico [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Property and equipment, net	10,040	9,778	9,586
Canada [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Property and equipment, net	$ 910	$ 887	$ 1,071

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) - Schedule of Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data (Detail) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Operating revenues	$ 3,460	$ 3,548	$ 3,425	$ 3,176	$ 3,246	$ 3,360	$ 3,315	$ 3,040	$ 13,609	$ 12,961	$ 13,996
Income from operations	617	560	611	508	502	601	502	440	2,296	2,045	2,299
Consolidated net income	334	304	286	256	273	337	273	(131)	1,180	752	1,338
Net income (loss) attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	$ 335	$ 302	$ 287	$ 258	$ 273	$ 335	$ 274	$ (129)	$ 1,182	$ 753	$ 1,298
Basic earnings (loss) per common share	$ 0.76	$ 0.68	$ 0.65	$ 0.58	$ 0.61	$ 0.75	$ 0.60	$ (0.28)	$ 2.66	$ 1.66	$ 2.80
Diluted earnings (loss) per common share	$ 0.75	$ 0.68	$ 0.64	$ 0.58	$ 0.61	$ 0.74	$ 0.60	$ (0.28)	$ 2.65	$ 1.65	$ 2.79

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended					12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
Net pre-tax charges	$ 106,000,000				$ 14,000,000
Positive (Negative) impact on diluted earnings per common share	$ (0.16)	$ (0.10)	$ (0.02)		$ (0.03)
Pre-tax impairment charges						$ 59,000,000	$ 89,000,000	$ 355,000,000
Charge to adjust cost estimate associated with environmental remediation liability						44,000,000
Goodwill impairment charges						12,000,000
(Income) expense from divestitures						9,000,000	(7,000,000)	(515,000,000)
Loss on early extinguishment of debt						(4,000,000)	(555,000,000)
Pre-tax restructuring charges			$ 8,000,000			4,000,000	15,000,000	82,000,000
Lamp Tracker Reporting Unit [Member]
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
Goodwill impairment charges	$ 10,000,000					12,000,000
Investment In Majority Owned Organics Company [Member]
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
(Income) expense from divestitures	8,000,000					8,000,000
Senior Notes [Member]
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
Positive (Negative) impact on diluted earnings per common share					$ (0.74)
Loss on early extinguishment of debt					$ (550,000,000)		(552,000,000)
Early extinguishment of high-coupon senior notes					2,000,000,000		2,000,000,000
Investment in Waste Diversion Technology Company [Member]
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
Net pre-tax charges		$ 45,000,000
Impairment charge relating to decline in value of minority-owned, cost method investment			$ 4,000,000			42,000,000	5,000,000	22,000,000
Landfill [Member] \| Western Canada Area [Member]
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
Pre-tax impairment charges					5,000,000
Oil and Gas Well [Member]
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
Positive (Negative) impact on diluted earnings per common share			$ (0.09)
(Income) expense from divestitures				$ (6,000,000)
Impairment of oil and gas property to its estimated fair value			$ 70,000,000				66,000,000	272,000,000
Withdrawal from Multiemployer Pension Plans [Member]
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
Positive (Negative) impact on diluted earnings per common share				$ (0.07)
Charge to "Operating" expenses				$ 55,000,000		0	$ 51,000,000	4,000,000
Wheelabrator [Member]
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
(Income) expense from divestitures					$ 7,000,000			(519,000,000)
Pre-tax restructuring charges								$ 1,000,000
Wheelabrator [Member] \| Recycling Assets [Member]
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
Net pre-tax charges				$ 6,000,000
Positive (Negative) impact on diluted earnings per common share				$ 0.01
Western Pennsylvania [Member] \| Landfill [Member]
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
Pre-tax impairment charges	43,000,000					43,000,000
San Jacinto Waste Pits [Member]
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
Charge to adjust cost estimate associated with environmental remediation liability	$ 42,000,000					$ 44,000,000

Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements - Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 32	$ 39	$ 1,307	$ 58
Other current assets	2,344	2,306
Total current assets	2,376	2,345
Property and equipment, net	10,950	10,665	10,657
Other assets	7,533	7,357
Total assets	20,859	20,367	21,252
Current liabilities:
Current portion of long-term debt	417	253
Accounts payable and other current liabilities	2,377	2,257
Total current liabilities	2,794	2,510
Long-term debt, less current portion	8,893	8,676
Other liabilities	3,852	3,814
Total liabilities	15,539	15,000
Equity:
Stockholders' equity	5,297	5,345
Noncontrolling interests	23	22
Total equity	5,320	5,367	5,889	6,002
Total liabilities and equity	20,859	20,367
Eliminations [Member]
Current assets:
Investments in affiliates	(40,255)	(37,482)
Advances to affiliates	(13,000)	(12,113)
Total assets	(53,255)	(49,595)
Current liabilities:
Due to affiliates	(18,777)	(17,963)
Total liabilities	(18,777)	(17,963)
Equity:
Stockholders' equity	(40,255)	(37,482)
Advances to affiliates	5,777	5,850
Total equity	(34,478)	(31,632)
Total liabilities and equity	(53,255)	(49,595)
WM [Member]
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents			1,235
Other current assets	5	3
Total current assets	5	3
Investments in affiliates	19,924	18,557
Other assets	14	23
Total assets	19,943	18,583
Current liabilities:
Current portion of long-term debt	269	41
Accounts payable and other current liabilities	81	83
Total current liabilities	350	124
Long-term debt, less current portion	6,229	5,801
Due to affiliates	13,350	12,588
Other liabilities	16	24
Total liabilities	19,945	18,537
Equity:
Stockholders' equity	5,297	5,345
Advances to affiliates	(5,299)	(5,299)
Total equity	(2)	46
Total liabilities and equity	19,943	18,583
WM Holdings [Member]
Current assets:
Other current assets	5	6
Total current assets	5	6
Investments in affiliates	20,331	18,925
Other assets	30	29
Total assets	20,366	18,960
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable and other current liabilities	9	9
Total current liabilities	9	9
Long-term debt, less current portion	304	304
Due to affiliates	128	76
Total liabilities	441	389
Equity:
Stockholders' equity	19,925	18,571
Total equity	19,925	18,571
Total liabilities and equity	20,366	18,960
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	32	39	$ 72	$ 58
Other current assets	2,334	2,297
Total current assets	2,366	2,336
Property and equipment, net	10,950	10,665
Advances to affiliates	13,000	12,113
Other assets	7,489	7,305
Total assets	33,805	32,419
Current liabilities:
Current portion of long-term debt	148	212
Accounts payable and other current liabilities	2,287	2,165
Total current liabilities	2,435	2,377
Long-term debt, less current portion	2,360	2,571
Due to affiliates	5,299	5,299
Other liabilities	3,836	3,790
Total liabilities	13,930	14,037
Equity:
Stockholders' equity	20,330	18,911
Advances to affiliates	(478)	(551)
Noncontrolling interests	23	22
Total equity	19,875	18,382
Total liabilities and equity	$ 33,805	$ 32,419

Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements - Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Long-term debt, less current portion	$ 8,893	$ 8,676
Intercompany loans		5,900
WM [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Long-term debt, less current portion	6,229	$ 5,801
Immaterial Corrections from Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries to WM [Member] \| Tax-exempt Bonds [Member] \| WM [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Long-term debt, less current portion	$ 126

Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements - Condensed Consolidating Statements of Operations (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Operating revenues	$ 3,460	$ 3,548	$ 3,425	$ 3,176	$ 3,246	$ 3,360	$ 3,315	$ 3,040	$ 13,609	$ 12,961	$ 13,996
Costs and expenses									11,313	10,916	11,697
Income from operations	617	560	611	508	502	601	502	440	2,296	2,045	2,299
Other income (expense):
Interest expense, net									(376)	(385)	(466)
Loss on early extinguishment of debt									(4)	(555)
Other, net									(94)	(45)	(82)
Total other income (expense)									(474)	(985)	(548)
Income before income taxes									1,822	1,060	1,751
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes									642	308	413
Consolidated net income	334	304	286	256	273	337	273	(131)	1,180	752	1,338
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests									(2)	(1)	40
Net income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	$ 335	$ 302	$ 287	$ 258	$ 273	$ 335	$ 274	$ (129)	1,182	753	1,298
Eliminations [Member]
Other income (expense):
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries, net of tax provision									(2,748)	(2,534)	(2,580)
Total other income (expense)									(2,748)	(2,534)	(2,580)
Income before income taxes									(2,748)	(2,534)	(2,580)
Consolidated net income									(2,748)	(2,534)	(2,580)
Net income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.									(2,748)	(2,534)	(2,580)
WM [Member]
Other income (expense):
Interest expense, net									(303)	(298)	(351)
Loss on early extinguishment of debt									(1)	(500)
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries, net of tax provision									1,367	1,245	1,510
Total other income (expense)									1,063	447	1,159
Income before income taxes									1,063	447	1,159
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes									(119)	(306)	(139)
Consolidated net income									1,182	753	1,298
Net income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.									1,182	753	1,298
WM Holdings [Member]
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Costs and expenses										(1)	(459)
Income from operations										1	459
Other income (expense):
Interest expense, net									(20)	(22)	(31)
Loss on early extinguishment of debt										(52)
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries, net of tax provision									1,381	1,289	1,070
Total other income (expense)									1,361	1,215	1,039
Income before income taxes									1,361	1,216	1,498
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes									(8)	(29)	(12)
Consolidated net income									1,369	1,245	1,510
Net income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.									1,369	1,245	1,510
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Operating revenues									13,609	12,961	13,996
Costs and expenses									11,313	10,917	12,156
Income from operations									2,296	2,044	1,840
Other income (expense):
Interest expense, net									(53)	(65)	(84)
Loss on early extinguishment of debt									(3)	(3)
Other, net									(94)	(45)	(82)
Total other income (expense)									(150)	(113)	(166)
Income before income taxes									2,146	1,931	1,674
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes									769	643	564
Consolidated net income									1,377	1,288	1,110
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests									(2)	(1)	40
Net income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.									$ 1,379	$ 1,289	$ 1,070

Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements - Condensed Consolidating Statements of Comprehensive Income (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Comprehensive income	$ 1,227	$ 602	$ 1,207
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	(2)	(1)	40
Comprehensive income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	1,229	603	1,167
Eliminations [Member]
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Comprehensive income	(2,748)	(2,534)	(2,580)
Comprehensive income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	(2,748)	(2,534)	(2,580)
WM [Member]
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Comprehensive income	1,189	762	1,300
Comprehensive income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	1,189	762	1,300
WM Holdings [Member]
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Comprehensive income	1,369	1,245	1,510
Comprehensive income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	1,369	1,245	1,510
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Comprehensive income	1,417	1,129	977
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	(2)	(1)	40
Comprehensive income attributable to Waste Management, Inc.	$ 1,419	$ 1,130	$ 937

Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements - Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash flows from operating activities:
Consolidated net income	$ 334	$ 304	$ 286	$ 256	$ 273	$ 337	$ 273	$ (131)	$ 1,180	$ 752	$ 1,338
Other adjustments									1,780	1,746	993
Net cash provided by operating activities									2,960	2,498	2,331
Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired									(611)	(554)	(35)
Capital expenditures									(1,339)	(1,233)	(1,151)
Proceeds from divestitures of businesses and other assets (net of cash divested)									43	145	2,253
Net receipts from restricted trust and escrow accounts and other, net									(25)	34	(72)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities									(1,932)	(1,608)	995
Cash flows from financing activities:
New borrowings									3,057	2,337	2,817
Debt repayments									(2,682)	(2,764)	(3,568)
Premiums paid on early extinguishment of debt									(2)	(555)
Common stock repurchase program									(725)	(600)	(600)
Cash dividends									(726)	(695)	(693)
Exercise of common stock options									63	77	93
Other, net									(20)	45	(121)
Net cash used in financing activities									(1,035)	(2,155)	(2,072)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents										(3)	(5)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents									(7)	(1,268)	1,249
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year				39				1,307	39	1,307	58
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	32				39				32	39	1,307
Eliminations [Member]
Cash flows from operating activities:
Consolidated net income									(2,748)	(2,534)	(2,580)
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries, net of tax provision									2,748	2,534	2,580
WM [Member]
Cash flows from operating activities:
Consolidated net income									1,182	753	1,298
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries, net of tax provision									(1,367)	(1,245)	(1,510)
Other adjustments									185	492	212
Cash flows from financing activities:
(Increase) decrease in intercompany and investments, net										(1,235)	1,235
Net cash used in financing activities										(1,235)	1,235
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents										(1,235)	1,235
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year								1,235		1,235
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year											1,235
WM Holdings [Member]
Cash flows from operating activities:
Consolidated net income									1,369	1,245	1,510
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries, net of tax provision									(1,381)	(1,289)	(1,070)
Other adjustments									12	44	(440)
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]
Cash flows from operating activities:
Consolidated net income									1,377	1,288	1,110
Other adjustments									1,583	1,210	1,221
Net cash provided by operating activities									2,960	2,498	2,331
Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired									(611)	(554)	(35)
Capital expenditures									(1,339)	(1,233)	(1,151)
Proceeds from divestitures of businesses and other assets (net of cash divested)									43	145	2,253
Net receipts from restricted trust and escrow accounts and other, net									(25)	34	(72)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities									(1,932)	(1,608)	995
Cash flows from financing activities:
New borrowings									3,057	2,337	2,817
Debt repayments									(2,682)	(2,764)	(3,568)
Premiums paid on early extinguishment of debt									(2)	(555)
Common stock repurchase program									(725)	(600)	(600)
Cash dividends									(726)	(695)	(693)
Exercise of common stock options									63	77	93
Other, net									(20)	45	(121)
(Increase) decrease in intercompany and investments, net										1,235	(1,235)
Net cash used in financing activities									(1,035)	(920)	(3,307)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents										(3)	(5)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents									(7)	(33)	14
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year				$ 39				$ 72	39	72	58
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$ 32				$ 39				$ 32	$ 39	$ 72

New Accounting Standards Pending Adoption - Additional Information (Detail) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
Annual Sales incentive expenses	$ 65

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Reserves for Doubtful Accounts [Member]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance Beginning of Year	$ 25	$ 31	$ 34
Charged to Income	42	36	42
Accounts Written Off/Use of Reserve	(43)	(42)	(45)
Balance End of Year	24	25	31
Merger and Restructuring Accruals [Member]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance Beginning of Year	13	45	14
Charged to Income	4	15	82
Accounts Written Off/Use of Reserve	(10)	(47)	(51)
Balance End of Year	$ 7	$ 13	$ 45