The Department of Conservation reports that the overall recycling rate in 2004 was 59 percent, an increase of 4 percent from 2003. More than 20 billion CRV containers were sold in the state in 2004. Clear plastic containers increased 30 percent in total volume recycled in 2003 to 2.5 billion containers compared. Glass volume also increased 14 percent to 2 billion containers, while aluminum increased 9 percent to 7.4 billion cans.
The Department of Conservation credits the increase in the recycling rate to a number of things, including a higher California Refund Value that took effect in January 2004.
“The higher refund value had the desired effect of encouraging more people to recycle more containers,” says Mark Murray, executive director of Californians Against Waste, an environmental organization that backed legislation raising the CRV. “The state should be commended for its proactive approach to raising the recycling rate.”
Other factors that contribute to increased recycling are ongoing efforts by the Department of Conservation toward greater public awareness of the need to recycle and better customer service at thousands of privately owned recycling centers in the state. Also, DOC funding to cities and counties and grants to a variety of entities have resulted in more recycling opportunities, and outreach efforts have increased recycling at private businesses like office buildings and restaurants.
California Refund Value is 4 cents on containers less than 24 ounces, 8 cents on containers 24 ounces and larger. Consumers and businesses can find nearby recycling centers by calling 1-800-RECYCLE or visiting http://www.bottlesandcans.com/ and using the zip code-based recycling center locater via the “Where” link. A “Recycling Starter Kit” for businesses is also now available at http://www.bottlesandcans.com/ via the “Start a Recycling Program” link.
Most beverages packaged in aluminum, glass and plastic, such as soft drinks, water, beer, sports drinks, juices and coffee and tea drinks, are included in the CRV program. Among the notable products not included in the program are milk, wine and distilled spirits. Visit http://www.conservation.ca.gov/DOR/CRVinOutList.pdf for a comprehensive list of products subject to CRV.
All aspects of the state’s beverage container recycling program are paid for with unclaimed refunds of CRV beverage containers, at no cost to the state's general fund.