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Regional Strategies Recycling A. Introduction RETH INK 6a RECYCLING® Recycling is a significant component of the Region's solid waste management system. The Policy Plan strongly emphasizes recycling, establishing an objective that 60% of all MSW should be recycled in the Region by 2030. The plan repeatedly mentions the importance of recycling in managing waste as a resource because recycling offers the promise of reduced pollution, diminished demand for scarce natural resources, and state and regional economic growth potential. In 2010, the Region recycled 41% of all MSW (not including SCORE source reduction and yard waste credits). The Region's waste generation is expected to grow to an estimated 4.5 million tons by 2030. The costs associated with managing this increased waste will be significant. Ultimately, the Regional Master Plan recognizes the magnitude of the challenging task facing the counties, and it is clear that the 60% recycling objective will not be accomplished without generators and service providers involved in future efforts to improve. SWMCB counties will therefore continue working with their partners to empower generators and service providers so that a collaborative effort maximizes the Region's diversion of recyclable material in the years ahead. As previously mentioned, the SWMCB recognizes that meeting higher recycling objectives will be a challenge. New initiatives must be undertaken to achieve the 60% recycling objective by 2030. First, the development of new markets is extremely important. SWMCB counties believe that the MPCA is positioned to be the governmental entity that aggressively leads market development efforts while working closely with the private sector and the federal government. SWMCB and the counties will then provide policy and regulatory support to the MPCA as those new markets emerge. Second, the SWMCB believes that the private sector is best positioned to introduce new collection techniques and technology to ensure that recycling effectiveness is maximized. The SWMCB therefore looks forward to working with the private sector in coming years to help introduce new, effective technologies to the Region. B. Regional Strategies The SWMCB will: 1. Share research, information, public policy tools and tactics for improving residential and non - residential recycling; 2. Develop model ordinances to encourage a consistent regulatory approach for recycling, as needed; 2011 -2030 Regional Solid Waste Master Plan Approved by the Solid Waste Management Coordinating Board on December 14, 2011 Appendix V Page 37