SEATTLE (Recycling Monster): Michigan recycled more than 800,000 tons of material last year as the state continues pushing toward long-term climate and waste reduction goals. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy reported that the state’s recycling rate rose to 26% last year, nearly doubling the approximately 14% rate before 2019. Michigan has historically lagged national recycling averages, last calculated at 32% by federal scientists.
State officials consider increasing recycling to be part of Michigan’s broader goal of reaching carbon neutrality by 2050 because it reduces energy use for resource extraction and methane emissions from landfills.
“Millions of Michiganders have greater access to recycling than ever before, and more material than ever is being successfully reclaimed and repurposed in our growing circular economy,” said EGLE Director Phil Roos.
Courtesy: www.wasteadvantagemag.com