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In 2006, more than 45% of the Ann Arbor waste stream was either composted or recycled. EPA has recognized Ann Arbor as one of the top recycling and composting communities in the country for having such a high recovery rate.
Source: (for national statistics): U.S. EPA |
What is percentage of waste stream either recycled or composted?
Also called the recovery rate, the percentage of municipal waste stream either recycled or composted reflects that amount of total waste that is not going to the landfill, because it will be recovered through recycling or composting programs. This rate typically does not include household hazardous wastes. Theorectically, as the recovery rate approaches 100%, the City comes closer to reaching its goal of zero waste -- where all used products will be be able to be used to make something new.
How does our personal waste affect our environment?
The 3 R's (Reduce, Reuse, Recycled) were arranged in that order on purpose. The more we reduce our total waste, the less material there is to be maintained, either in a landfill, or composted or recycled. The less we use, the less energy is used as well, and the less natural resources are required to support our way of life. As we continue to consume more and more, our waste stream increases, increasing pressure on natural resources and energy. While recycling and and reusing are both important, cutting our waste stream at the source through reduction is the most effective at protecting the environment overall.
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