A key goal of the Department is to use recycling as a tool for economic expansion by introducing and promoting programs that create new markets and public demand for recycled products. Some argue for increasing or imposing the processing fee - the fee charged to beverage manufacturers utilizing glass containers to make up the difference between the cost of recycling beverage containers and the value of the individual container's recycled material. Rather, government must establish specific goals and broad parameters, such as minimum recycled content and reduced emissions, and then allow businesses to achieve these goals by determining the most cost-effective methodologies and strategies. Thus, a solid strategy for public policy is to foster demand for recycled-content products so that the value of the recycled material outstrips the cost of recycling. The campaign encourages consumers to complete the recycling process by purchasing products made from recycled materials.
Recycling is the way of the future.
Michael F. Byrne is director of the California Department of Conservation.