Recycling Program
Definition
A system that collects, processes, and converts waste materials into new products, conserving natural resources and reducing landfill use. Effective recycling programs require convenient collection, clear communication about what’s recyclable, market development for recycled materials, and contamination reduction (keeping non-recyclables out of recycling bins). Recycling creates more jobs per ton than landfilling.
Louisville Context
Louisville Metro provides curbside recycling to all residential customers, collecting paper, cardboard, metal cans, glass bottles, and plastics #1-5 and #7. However, contamination rates are high (20-30%) due to confusion about what’s recyclable and ‘wishcycling’ (throwing questionable items in recycling hoping they’ll be recycled). Louisville has no curbside composting and limited drop-off recycling for items like electronics and hazardous waste.
Why It Matters
Recycling reduces waste going to expensive landfills, conserves resources, and creates local processing and manufacturing jobs. However, contamination (putting wrong items in recycling) increases costs and can cause entire loads to be landfilled. Clear communication and convenient recycling options are essential for program success.
Dave’s Proposal
Dave will improve Louisville’s recycling program through expanded public education about proper recycling, additional drop-off locations for hard-to-recycle items (electronics, batteries, paint), and launching a curbside composting pilot in 5 neighborhoods to test feasibility before citywide expansion. All programs funded within $1.025 billion budget.