Editor's Focus

Who says a region can’t come back?

After some difficult years, the Midwest is benefitting from a stronger economy and thriving steel and scrap recycling industries. A number of new mills are planned, all using the modern steelmaking technology that is making the United States a world leader in steel production again. Cleveland in particular, which got a lot of negative press in the 1970s and 1980s for its economic and environmental problems, now boasts clean waterways, a new ballpark and a healthy industrial sector.

Of course, all regions of the United States are important to the scrap recycling industry, but the Midwest has special significance because of the concentration of steel concerns located there. This month, Recycling Today reports on the state of recycling in the Midwest, and we’re pleased to find it flourishing.

This prosperity extends not only to scrap recyclers but also to the municipal recycling sector, which has gained success in both urban and rural areas, showing both dedication and, in many cases, a great deal of innovation.

With a growing manufacturing infrastructure – steel mills and facilities using post-consumer paper and plastics as feedstock – and a strong recycling network, the Midwest should be able to maintain its economic health for years to come.

On a personal note, despite a strong attachment to the Midwest, my husband and I have moved to North Carolina so he can pursue graduate studies at UNC. Due to modern technology, I am able to telecommute and continue as editor of Recycling Today. Readers and advertisers can reach me at:

P.O. Box 3320

Chapel Hill, N.C. 27515-3320

(919) 942-6839

e-mail address: 102533,3310@compuserve.com

While product releases should continue to go to our Cleveland address, feel free to call or send press releases here to me in North Carolina about any interesting activities your company or recycling program is engaged in. And letters to the editor are always welcome.

Of course, our primary goal will continue to be producing the best recycling business journal available.