In Vancouver, British Columbia, private-sector backing for recycling collection has freed up resources to tackle ambitious initiatives from local leaders.
RRS analyzed data from field reports and primary sources as well as experiential data from MRF practices across the U.S.
The findings show that with additional stages of advanced cleaning, glass recovery can yield increases in quantity, as well as tip fee savings and avoided emissions.
In the graphic below, typical MRF glass processing steps are shown in the “Average Performance” column, and more advanced undertakings are shown to the right. At the bottom, we’ve quantified the benefits of utilizing best practices.
Data Corner is compiled monthly by recycling consultancy RRS.
This article originally appeared in the March 2017 issue of Resource Recycling. Subscribe today for access to all print content.
The U.S. experienced a rapid surge in its recycling rate as capacity increased with the growth of curbside recycling programs and construction of materials recovery facilities in the late 1980s to mid-1990s.
However, the last several years have seen the increases in recycling rate level off and stagnate in a development that parallels recent commodity pricing.
While rising commodity prices will to some degree help drive increased recycling, the trends underscore the need to overcome barriers in areas such as access and resident participation.
Note: Commodity revenue numbers represent average prices for typical curbside recyclables receiving by processing facilities in the Pacific Northwest.
Data Corner is compiled monthly by recycling consultancy RRS. Visit recycle.com to learn more.
This article originally appeared in the May 2017 issue of Resource Recycling. Subscribe today for access to all print content.