SEATTLE (Recycling Monster): The recently launched curbside recycling program in the City of Minot has been a huge success. In the initial five month period between July and November 2023, it has saved approximately 467.16 tons of material from being disposed in landfills.
According to Christina Wolf, Recycling Coordinator, there has been a steady increase in monthly tonnage. The current participation rate is estimated at around 80%. New residential customers are required to participate in the program compulsorily as the opportunity to opt out has already come to an end in October 2023.
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The City was initially raised concerns about potential high contamination rates. However, contrary to the fears, the contamination rate has been low at 17%. The wet weather had made some materials unacceptable, otherwise the contamination rate would have been much lower at 10%. This is very low, when compared with the national average contamination rate of around 20-30%. The City hopes to further reduce contamination rates by offering continuous education to residents on what and what not to recycle.
The City identified plastic bags and Styrofoam as the biggest contaminants.
Overall, the city’s curbside recycling program has been gaining positive feedback from community members, said Wolf.
