Recycling is a great way to reduce our impact on the environment and conserve natural resources. But how much of our recyclables actually get recycled? And what happens to the materials that don't?
In America, the overall recycling recovery rate is 68%. This means that for every 100 tons of waste generated, 68 tons are recycled. However, there is a lot of variation in recycling rates from state to state and city to city.
Atlanta, Georgia has a recycling recovery rate of 38%. This means that for every 100 tons of waste generated, only 38 tons are recycled. The low recycling rate in Atlanta is due to a number of factors, including contamination, lack of education, and limited recycling infrastructure.
One of the biggest problems with recycling in Atlanta is contamination. Contamination occurs when non-recyclable materials are mixed in with recyclables. This can happen for a number of reasons, such as people not knowing what can and cannot be recycled, or people being careless. Contamination can render an entire load of recyclables unrecyclable, which is a waste of resources and money.
Another problem with recycling in Atlanta is lack of education. Many people in Atlanta do not know what can and cannot be recycled. This can lead to people putting non-recyclable materials in their recycling bins, which can contaminate the recycling stream.
Finally, Atlanta has limited recycling infrastructure. Some neighborhoods in Atlanta have different rules regarding what can and cannot be recycled and some lack recycling altogether. Additionally, some recycling centers in Atlanta are not equipped to process all types of recyclables.
There are a number of things that can be done to improve recycling rates in Atlanta. One important step is to educate the public about what can and cannot be recycled. This can be done through public awareness campaigns, school programs, and community events.
Another important step is to improve recycling infrastructure. This includes expanding curbside recycling to all neighborhoods in Atlanta and investing in new recycling centers that can process all types of recyclables. Be Glassy Atlanta was created with materials outside of normal recyclers portfolio to fill the void of conventional recycling. Our glass recycling rate year to date is over roughly 98%. All of our other materials we accept go to our vetted partners to ensure that they have the best chance at being recycled properly and efficiently.
Finally, it is important to reduce contamination. This can be done by providing clear and concise recycling instructions, investing in better sorting technology, and enforcing recycling laws.
By taking these steps, Atlanta can improve its recycling recovery rate and reduce its impact on the environment.
Here are some additional facts about recycling in Atlanta:
The city's recycling program is operated by Waste Management.
Contamination rates in Atlanta are high, with an estimated 41% of recyclables being contaminated.
The city has a goal of increasing its recycling recovery rate to 50% by 2025.
Here are some tips for recycling in Atlanta:
Make sure you know what can and cannot be recycled.
Rinse out food and drink containers before recycling them.
Flatten cardboard boxes.
Recycle electronics at designated collection centers.
Contact your local recycling program for more information.
Commentaires