Orange County NC Website
Browse       Search
17 <br /> FecyC ling of newspaper, glass, aluminum, and possibly other <br /> materials such as cardboard, mixed paper, and certain plastics <br /> will conserve resources, reduce pollution, and lengthen the life <br /> of the landfill if it is undertaken on a significant scale. <br /> Background <br /> Although the present recycling program was run economically and <br /> delivered recyclables for a low cost per ton it recieved limited <br /> governmental support. Other. local governments in North Carolina. <br /> notably Durham and Charlotte, have given significant support to <br /> recycling efforts in spite of the fact that these programs will <br /> not make a profit for the city. In Charlotte's case, it is hoped <br /> that recycling of residential solid waste will significantly <br /> reduce the city's waste stream and buy extra time for landfills are about to close. In Durham 's case they support energy <br /> conservation and solar projects throughout the City. <br /> In the coming FY 1986-87, Durham, working through a local non-- <br /> profit corporation, Sunshares Inc in conjunction with ECOS Inc <br /> hopes to collaborate with Orange County 's recycling efforts by <br /> sharing the capital cost of collection equipment.. Their first <br /> Year program costs include only 50% of the cost for a truck, <br /> trailer and forklift. They are anticipating that Orange County <br /> will come forward with a level of commi ttment to recycling <br /> equivalent to theirs. Durham is considering an expenditure. of <br /> $100, 000 to support recycling. <br /> They have also committed to a $60, 000 comprehensive solid waste <br /> study which. will examine all aspects of the future of solid waste <br /> disposal . This is also something which Orange County and its <br /> municipalities need to consider while we still have the. luxury of <br /> a ten year lead time. <br /> Nationwide there is no residential recycling program that makes a <br /> . profit. Some curbside pickup programs have over 70% participation <br /> rates but they are still subsidized by local and state <br /> government. <br /> If we wish to have a sustainable area wide recycling program, <br /> public funds will be required to initiate it and to subsidize its <br /> ongoing operation. It will also require support from community <br /> based groups. The Animal Protection Society has stated that they <br /> would sponsor and publicize recycling programs. The Sierra Club <br /> has also indicated a willingness to be involved in promotion of <br /> recycling in Orange County. With a strong, visible program, <br /> other groups will emerge to work on sponsorship of recylcing, <br /> especially if, as -was the case in Durham and Wake Counties, they <br /> can recieve some benefits from their sponsorship. <br />