We regard waste management as an essential
service like clean water, roads and schools. We operate half a dozen
drop-off stations where we charge for recyclables, albeit at half the rate of
trash. Our expenses for recycling are essentially the same as those for
msw mgt. We have a mandatory recycling ordinance, so all the curbside
commercial haulers provide recycling service. They all charge for the
service, most at the same rate as trash. The upshot of this description is
that our recycling rates, both for participation and capture are equal to
districts which provide free recycling service.
I'm not sure of all the implications here, but it seems that
people who will recycle see it as a better option and are willing to put in the
extra effort to collect msw and recyclables separately.
Mike Morrow, Manager
Lamoille Waste District
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