Cumberland Times-News

Local News

February 17, 2013

Recycling rate climbs in Garrett

From Staff Reports Cumberland Times-News

OAKLAND — Garrett County’s recycling rate has increased by more than 5 percent, the Department of Solid Waste & Recycling announced Friday.

The Maryland Department of the Environment finalized its review of the county’s Maryland Recycling Act tonnage report for calendar year 2011. Garrett County had a recycling rate of 50.93 percent with a waste diversion rate of 51.93 percent. This places Garrett fifth amongst the counties in the state.  

In 2010, the recycling rate was 45.17 percent. County officials believe that the higher recycling rate indicates an economy that is beginning to bounce back with consumers buying more and producing more waste and recycling materials.

“Garrett County Department of Solid Waste & Recycling would like to congratulate the residents and businesses for the improvement in their recycling efforts; everyone has worked hard to achieve the 51 percent recycling rate,” said Kimberly Madigan, recycling coordinator. “However, we will still continue to encourage residents and businesses to not only recycle every day, but also reduce waste at the source,” she said.

 In the 2012 legislative session, the Maryland General Assembly passed House Bill 929: Environment — Recycling Rates and Waste Diversion — Statewide Goals.  In the past, Garrett County was required to divert at least 15 percent of its waste to recycling programs.  H.B. 929 increased Garrett’s rate to at least 20 percent.    

“Now, more than ever, it will be important to keep up with good recycling habits and fast, efficient reporting,” Madigan said.  The tonnage report for calendar year 2012 has been sent out.

Businesses should complete the reports and return to the landfill office at 3118 Oakland Sang Run Road.

Help in completing the tonnage reporting form is available by calling 301-387-0322 or email kmadigan@garrettcounty.org.

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