Single-stream recycling
Single-stream (also known as “fully commingled” or "single-sort") recycling refers to a system in which all paper fibers, plastics, metals, and other containers are mixed in a collection truck, instead of being sorted by the depositor into separate commodities (newspaper, paperboard, corrugated fiberboard, plastic, glass, etc.) and handled separately throughout the collection process. In single-stream, both the collection and processing systems are designed to handle this fully commingled mixture of recyclables, with materials being separated for reuse at a materials recovery facility (MRF).[1][2]
Single-stream recycling programs were first developed in several California communities in the 1990s. Subsequently many large and small municipalities across the United States began single-stream programs. As of 2012 there are 248 MRFs operating in the U.S.[3]
Advantages
Proponents of single stream note several advantages:[4]
- Reduced sorting effort by residents may mean more recyclables are placed at the curb and more residents may participate in recycling;[5]
- Reduced collection costs because single-compartment trucks are cheaper to purchase and operate, collection can be automated, and collection routes can be serviced more efficiently;
- Greater fleet flexibility which allows single compartment vehicles to be used for refuse or recycling, providing greater fleet flexibility and reducing the number of reserve vehicles needed. To avoid confusing customers, a large sign or banner is sometimes used to distinguish when a refuse truck is being used for recycling.
- Worker injuries may decrease because the switch to single stream is often accompanied by a switch from bins to cart-based collection.
- Changing to single stream may provide an opportunity to update the collection and processing system and to add new materials to the list of recyclables accepted; and
- More paper grades may be collected, including junk mail, telephone books and mixed residential paper.
Disadvantages
Potential disadvantages of single stream recycling may include:
- Initial capital cost for:
- New carts
- Different collection vehicles
- Upgrading the processing facility
- Processing costs may increase compared to multiple stream systems
- Possible reduced commodity prices due to contamination of paper or plastic[6]
- Increased downcycling of paper, i.e., use of high quality fibers for low-end uses like boxboard because of presence of contaminants;
- Possible increase in residual rates after processing (chiefly because of increased breakage of glass)[7]
- Potential for diminished public confidence if more recyclables are destined for landfill disposal because of contamination or unmarketability.
See also
References
- ↑ City of Chicago, Illinois. Department of Streets and Sanitation. "What is Single Stream Recycling." Accessed 2013-12-09.
- ↑ Montgomery County, Maryland. Division of Solid Waste Services, Rockville, MD (2010). "Comprehensive Solid Waste Management 10 Year Plan: 2009-2019." p. 3-40.
- ↑ de Thomas, Dylan (2013-11-14). "Single Stream in the West." Presentation at Fall 2013 Meeting of Association of Oregon Recyclers, Portland, OR.
- ↑ Connecticut Resources Recovery Authority, Hartford, CT (2013-03-28). "The Facts About Single-Stream Recycling."
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External links
- How It Works: Inside The Machine That Separates Your Recyclables—Popular Science (August 28, 2013)
- Single-Stream Recycling Is Easier for Consumers, but Is It Better?—The Atlantic (September 19, 2014)
