Minneapolis single-sort service boosts recycling

Published 10:16 am Wednesday, October 22, 2014

MINNEAPOLIS — The Minneapolis public works committee says residents are recycling at least a quarter more waste following a switch to single-sort recycling.

A public works official said Tuesday the program has been well received by residents since the citywide rollout began in July 2013. It allows residents to mix plastic, glass, paper, cardboard and aluminum in recycling bins. The city had anticipated a 30-60 percent increase under the program.

The city has reduced the amount of incinerated trash by 16 percent, or about 13,500 tons. Processing costs have been less than expected at about $49 per ton this year, rather than $60 to $80 per ton.

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The number of workers’ compensation claims related to recycling collection has decreased. The program allows the city to use trucks with mechanical arms, relieving workers of some tasks.