Seeking To Double Recycling, State Solicits Public's Advice

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — State officials are soliciting recommendations from the public on ways to boost recycling in Michigan.

Gov. Rick Snyder announced a plan last April to double the state's recycling rate and formed the Governor's Recycling Council to come up with ideas. The council has scheduled a Jan. 14 meeting that will include a public comment period.

The Department of Environmental Quality says about $435 million worth of materials in Michigan that could be recycled ends up trashed each year, partly because of weak markets for recycled commodities and lack of access.

Just 25 of the 83 counties make recycling convenient by providing curbside pickup or what the department considers an adequate number of drop-off sites. Among the plan's goals is providing convenient access statewide by 2017.

"To assist communities beginning a robust recycling effort, the DEQ is offering up to $600,000 during fiscal year 2015" as part of a pollution prevention grant program," the Department of Environmental Quality said in a statement. It said that nonprofit organizations, local and tribal governments, local health departments, municipalities, and regional planning agencies may apply, with an April 1 deadline.

The department holds a webinar Feb. 11 ho help applicants.

The council meeting begins at 1:30 p.m. on Jan. 14 in the ConCon room of Constitution Hall at 525 West Allegan Street. Because seating is limited, those wishing to attend must register by Jan. 12.

Online registration to participate by webinar also is required by then. Register HERE.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.