[GreenYes] Why people recycle

[Michele Raymond <michele@raymond.com>]

After surveying the states for 10 years, I am afraid I have to conclude 
that people are still economic animals to some extent.  That is why 
deposits tend to work on bottles, and why pay-per-can improves recycling 
compliance.

I am skeptical you can ever get perfect compliance on curbside 
separation.  They cant get it in Germany, or Alabama, or New York City.

I hate to say this but perhaps in the future, the concept of wet-dry, 
paper,  may make sense.  There is no way consumers can be educated to deal 
with changes in recycling markets.  What if you need PP bottles sorted out 
because of a hot market??  You can't do it with curbside.

While we may be motivated by higher instincts overall -- its something we 
can DO for the environment directly -- those who will separate perfectly 
are a small minority.  Alas.
Cheers





Michele Raymond
Publisher
Recycling Laws International/ State Recycling Laws Update
5111 Berwyn Rd. Ste 115 College Park, MD 20740)
301/345-4237   Fax 345-4768
http://www.raymond.com