Against the backdrop of the growing Cherry Island landfill, Governor Jack Markell signed legislation Tuesday, June 8 that will make statewide curbside recycling a reality.
“Making recycling convenient and available to every household in the state now has the ability to become reality,” Markell said in a press release. “This plan, which had bipartisan support, is comprehensive, cost-effective and practical. It’s designed to dramatically increase recycling while reducing burdens on businesses and restraining the cost of waste.”
Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control Secretary Collin O’Mara joined the Governor in thanking the broad statewide coalition that help make the bill a reality.
“Because of the work of so many advocates over the years Delaware will emerge in the coming years as a leader in recycling and not just a follower of the pack. We have the potential to reduce the amount of waste going into the landfill by more than 300,000 tons per year,” O’Mara said.
Senator Dave McBride was the prime sponsor of the bill.
“You know, quitters never win and winners never quit, and we didn’t quit. Many legislators worked very hard over the years to make to make this day come true, and it is very much appreciated that today it is reality,” McBride said.
Representative Mike Mulrooney said the law will serve well the state’s long-term interests.
“This is going to be a good process for Delaware. It is going to save us land, save us millions of dollars in the long term. For Delaware’s future, this needed to get done and we did it,” Mulrooney said.
Aspects of the new plan include:
• Citizens determine if they want to participate - recycling remains optional, not mandatory for residents.
• Municipalities and waste removal companies provide the container and collection.
• Haulers who pick up trash at single-family homes, restaurants, and bars will be required to offer curbside recycling beginning in September of 2011.
• For those who live in an apartment, condo or other multi-family residence, curbside recycling begins in 2013.
• For businesses, other than bars or restaurants, curbside recycling starts in 2014.
