When looking at the “progressive” cities that fell for single stream recycling, one must ask a lot of questions, instead of following like sheep. The companies that convinced communities to go single stream had a conflict of interest. A garbage hauling entity loses money if there is less to haul. Serious waste reduction programs, along with recycling drop off centers, could result in reduced revenue for haulers.
How wonderful to see caring citizens win the class action lawsuit in Fort Smith, Arkansas regarding the landfilling, for over two years, of the single stream recycling. Too bad no one sued upon discovering that the single stream recycling, from 14 communities north of Dallas, with total population around 400,000 people, was being landfilled. No one knew?
I cringe when I hear talk of a regional single stream or mixed waste/composting facility for the Chattanooga region. Both kick the can “solutions” will send their mixed up messes elsewhere. Neither inspires waste reduction.
The litter strewn along our roads reflects a culture that doesn’t care. Single stream and mixed waste/composting fit right in with an uncaring culture. Electing the right leadership could result in raising the “caring bar” in many ways.
Louise Mann