Editorial

City of Cape sees recycling participation on the rise

The participation in recycling in Cape Girardeau continues to increase.

As reported by journalist Samantha Rinehart in a recent Southeast Missourian story, more than 4,300 households now use the recycling system, jumping from 2,800 before a new system was implemented in 2009. A city official roughly estimated 80 percent of households participate in the recycling program monthly.

Before 2009, household residents can place recyclables into green 96-gallon carts, which is emptied by two recycling trucks that operate four days a week. Glass items are not included in this program.

The city's residents seem to be getting used to the system and using it more and more. According to the city, statistics show about 75 percent of all the trash you throw away can be recycled.

The city began offering e-cycling for electronic waste in 2011 through a partnership with Midwest Recycling Center. Some old devices require a fee, but most devices are free to recycle. The city also offers a motor-oil recycling service for individuals.

Recycling makes sense. It's a shame to see so much recyclable materials going to landfills. Consider what you can do to waste less and recycle more.

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