Delaware Doubled Recycling Diversion Rate Since 2006

SEATTLE (Waste Advantage): On America Recycles Day, Delaware had a lot to celebrate, including the state’s 44.5 percent recycling diversion rate – 10 percent above the national average – for keeping recyclable materials out of landfills. The diversion rate has almost doubled since 2006, when the Recycling Public Advisory Council (RPAC), Delaware Solid Waste Authority (DSWA) and the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control  (DNREC) started calculating recycling rates in Delaware.

The increase in recycling throughout the state is due, in large part, to significant advances in policy and participation – and it was achieved through a single-stream recycling plan. Delaware’s Universal Recycling Program maximizes recycling benefits and makes it easier to recycle. The system also provides universal recycling services that are cost-effective and convenient, and that promote jobs and economic growth.

“Since Delaware’s Universal Recycling Law was established in 2010, the state has become a national leader in recycling. While we are progressing toward higher recycling rates, more can be done,” said DNREC Secretary Shawn M. Garvin. “In recognition of America Recycles Day, I challenge Delawareans to make the recycling pledge – to learn about what materials are recyclable, to reduce the amount of waste going into landfills by recycling more, and to encourage a family member or friend to become a more active recycler.”

To further recycling in the state, Delawareans are encouraged to:

• Purchase items with post-consumer recycled (PCR) content such as paper products, electronics, promotional materials, and other consumer goods.
• Compost food waste for a boost to your lawn or garden by following DNREC’s backyard composting guide which makes it easy to get started.
• Become a recycling leader at work. DNREC offers the How to Recycle Guide and posters, free waste and recycling assessments and recommendations on starting or expanding recycling programs.

Courtesy: https://wasteadvantagemag.com