SEATTLE (Recycling Monster): The City of Sioux Falls has witnessed significant decline in recycling participation since 2018, said the latest data published by the city’s Public Works Department.

According to Mark Cotter, Director of Public Works, the recycling rate hit a peak of 23.4% in 2018. Since then, the rate has witnessed steady decline to 18.7% in 2018. There has been a substantial increase in recycling contamination, especially in multi-family housing and commercial properties. The dip in recycling rate is also attributed to overall lack of knowledge about proper recycling techniques.

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The highest garbage hauler reported 22.9% recycling rate, whereas the lowest hauler had a recycling rate of 16.5%. The recycling rate stood well below the national average recycling rate of 32% in 2022. During the year, the Sioux Falls Regional Landfill received 211,251 tons of municipal solid waste. The latest figures indicate that the recycling rate for 2023 is at 18.7%.

The solid waste planning board had created a task force to study about the recycling efforts being undertaken by the city. It urged the residents to learn the recycling guide and take efforts to spread awareness.