KJCT8.com - Grand Junction, Montrose - Weather, News, Sports | Recycling rates up statewide

Recycling rates up statewide

DON COLEMAN
DCOLEMAN@KJCT8.COM

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KJCT) -- Recycling statewide is up nearly 30% as Coloradans become more green-conscious.

Despite a weakened demand for recyclable materials, the rate is going through the roof.

But for many across the state, it costs nothing to recycle, making it that much easier.

But in Mesa County, it does cost money.

$1.75 per month can add up over time, but recyclers say it could be cheaper than your trash plan in the long run.

"You can actually save money on your city's trash bill if you drop down from a 96 gallon container to a 64 gallon container and add recycling,” said Curbside Recycling Education Coordinator Cyndi Albers. “Recycling charge is only $1.75 charge a month.”

Albers says the difference in trash containers is about $2.00, thus saving you about a quarter, overall.

According to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, more than 11 million tons of waste material were generated last year. 35% of that was recyclable.

Curbside Recycling is looking to add capacity to their Grand Junction location, all in hopes of processing nearly 9 million lbs. of material in the future.