Delaware Invites Comments on Mandatory Recycling Proposal

Four public meetings will be held in November to elicit comments on a proposed mandatory curbside recycling program for all Delaware residents. The program was developed by the Recycling Public Advisory Council in cooperation with the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control and the Delaware Solid Waste Authority.

All four public meetings will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. on the following dates:

• Nov. 4 - Dover Sheraton
• Nov. 8 - Rehoboth Convention Center
• Nov. 16 - Carvel State Building
• Nov. 17 - Embassy Suites, Newark

The program's proposed residential recycling rate is expected to increase from the current 12 percent recycling rate to a goal of 30 percent.

Monthly recycling costs are expected to be $3-$7 per household.

Draft recommendations for the program include: collection of the recyclables in a single curbside container, excluding glass; collection of materials through current trash haulers, municipal collection services or self hauler drop-off centers locating throughout the state; and separate collection of yard waste.

Residents would contribute to the success of the program by separating their yard waste and recyclables from their garbage.

Following the public meetings and public comment period, draft legislation will be developed for the next legislation session.

For further information concerning the public meetings, contact the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, (302) 739-3689, or Delaware Solid Waste Authority, 1-800-404-7080.