Current Trends in Recycling
by Gerry Rosenthal
The SJ Conservancy Recycling Committee is just a small part of a growing global effort for a cleaner environment. Over the past two years, since the inception of our Committee, there have been many advancements in science, legislation and community participation.
A perfect example is the growing investment in recycling technologies, such as chemical recycling, which can process materials that are traditionally difficult to recycle, such as mixed plastics and clothing. These technologies are expected to significantly boost recycling rates by making it possible to reclaim materials that would otherwise end up in landfills.
States initiatives are adopting laws which require manufacturers to take responsibility for the entire life cycle of their products, including postconsumer recycling. This shift aims to reduce waste and improve recycling rates by holding producers accountable for the disposal of their products.
There are, however, significant challenges throughout the US and here in NC. Our state’s combined recycling and composting rate is below the national average, indicating a need for substantial reforms.
To combat these challenges, North Carolina is focusing on community involvement and education to encourage better recycling habits among residents. There is also an emphasis on reducing the use of low-value plastics, which have become a significant problem due to their difficulty and cost in recycling.
Legislation and Policy Initiatives: North Carolina is considering various bills to boost recycling and reduce waste. For instance, the proposed **NC Managing Environmental Waste Act of 2023** and the **Litter Reduction Act of 2024** aim to increase recycling rates and reduce the state's reliance on single-use plastics. Such efforts are crucial given that a number of landfills are no longer accepting trash deliveries and others are are expected to reach capacity within the next decade.
These developments underscore the state’s ongoing efforts to improve waste management, but they also reflect the need for stronger policies and greater public participation to make recycling more effective across North Carolina.
We applaud our state and local business efforts to reduce plastics and other waste ending up in landfills and local waterways. Reduce, reuse and recycle are just some of the key elements in achieving our goals. This website provides St James residents with pertinent updates and educational material to assist in this process.
For more detailed information on North Carolina’s 2024 environmental legislation, please click on link; https://environmentamerica.org/ northcarolina/updates/environment-north-carolinas-legislative-prioritiesfor-2024
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