SWACO Trustees Approve Green Economic Incentive Plan
SWACO’s Board of Trustees has approved a plan designed to be an incentive to the recycling industry in Central Ohio. The resolution waives all SWACO fees for those recycling source separated materials. In other words, if a business chooses to separate recyclables for collection (from other trash) in Franklin County or a contiguous county, the SWACO fees on that product would be waived as long as the recyclables collected are processed locally. The action by SWACO could save businesses that collect “source separated recyclables†$9 per ton in fees. Under current state law, recyclables are considered municipal waste and are subject to fees collected on trash. (Any state fees would still be applicable).
“This idea shows how taking care of our environment is also good for the economy,†says SWACO Executive Director Ron Mills. “Our incentive plan will encourage our local recycling industry to expand and help new green businesses get started. I believe the Columbus area can become a model for the country as the industry grows in Central Ohio and creates more and more jobs tied to recycling.â€Â
To qualify from the exemption from SWACO fees, recyclers would have to report the amount of product they collect annually. (SWACO is required to report such information to the Ohio EPA). Also, as the recyclables are processed any residual trash from the processing must be taken to a SWACO transfer station or SWACO’s Franklin County Landfill and is subject to SWACO district rules and fees.
Mills adds, “Recyclables collected by SWACO since the mid 1990’s have increased by over 100%. Local residents and businesses have shown us they are serious about recycling and they want additional options to reduce their environmental footprint. I believe this plan will provide those opportunities and stimulate our economy in the process.â€Â
SWACO serves Columbus and Franklin County, Ohio with innovative waste reduction and recycling projects. We believe today’s throwaways are the foundation for tomorrow.
SWACO provides consumers recycling opportunities throughout Franklin County (Ohio) with 225 recycling drop off-locations, at major sporting and entertainment venues, at Columbus City Schools, The Columbus Arts Festival and other locations. SWACO offers leadership and advice for businesses wishing to begin recycling and waste reduction programs as well. We also operate the Franklin County Landfill, three transfer stations, and other programs. Learn more about SWACO at http://www.swaco.org.
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