
The recycling program in Atlanta, Georgia, has continued to improve recycling rates, but still lags behind the national recycling rate. | Luisa P Oswalt/Shutterstock
Editor’s Note: Community Spotlight was a feature that appeared in the monthly Resource Recycling print edition for several years until mid-2020. This week, we are reviving it as a periodic feature in the Resource Recycling e-news. Have an idea for a municipal program that should be featured? Email us at [email protected]. Continue Reading


In Vancouver, British Columbia, private-sector backing for recycling collection has freed up resources to tackle ambitious initiatives from local leaders.
The 10th largest city in the country has a diverse population that spans 180 square miles, yet it manages to achieve a 72 percent citywide diversion rate. The director of environmental services for San José says the key to achieving such a rate is simplicity.

Through early implementation of recycling incentives and consistent outreach to involve the public in recycling initiatives, Vancouver, Wash. and its surrounding county have carved out a recycling rate of more than 50 percent over the past two decades.
In the City of Madison, Wis., staying consistently ahead of the curve has led to high diversion and citizen engagement in municipal recycling.
It’s known for its laid back surfing and skating culture, but Santa Monica, Calif. has been serious when it comes to recycling.