Flyers describing the program are sent to residents annually. When combined with public education and other techniques to encourage participation, mandatory programs can be extremely effective. Berlin Township, a small New Jersey municipality of 5672, has developed a mandatory program that has frequently resulted in the highest recycling levels in their county and state. In 1990, Berlin was also presented with a national award for their recycling efforts. Through newsletters, informational packets to new residents, and visits to schools Berlin emphasizes recycling as a way that the average citizen can protect the environment and lower local taxes.
Berlin also makes recycling very convenient for residents.
Donations from local businesses who wish to improve their environmental image allow the township to distribute free recycling bins to residents. All recyclable items are placed in a single container, which eliminates the hassle of separating materials, and are collected on the same day as non-recyclable refuse. Economic Incentives Creating economic incentives for citizens to recycle can be another effective way to increase public participation in a recycling program. Since recycling is free, this creates an economic incentive for citizens to reduce the amount of waste they produce by recycling more, thereby saving the local government money in MSW management costs. Local governments frequently document a rapid increase in recycling rates following the establishment of a PAYT program.