2010-03-23_PWETC_Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mr. Goodwin further reviewed the reduced tonnage during 2009, down significantly based on fewer materials being received from consumer due to fewer newspaper and magazine subscriptions, less purchasing of big box items, in addition to changing behaviors and technologies, and lighter volumes of materials being recycled; and assured members that this did not indicate that people were recycling less or fewer people were recycling, just an indication of the materials they were recycling. Mr. Goodwin advised that Roseville's participation, while down approximately four percent (4%), was still high at seventy-eight percent (78%). Mr. Goodwin noted that this could be based on vacant and/or foreclosed properties; and advised that additional research would be available on that trend during 2010. Mr. Goodwin noted that recycling followed economic trends, with manufacturers considering recycled stock as part of their economic viewpoint; and further noted that environmental benefits remained significant in impacts to the planet. Mr. Goodwin further reviewed the ever-changing end markets for recycled materials, and the unique sorting provided by Eureka to ensure the quality of those materials in the market place. Mr. Goodwin noted that tonnage was down in Roseville, with a slight increase seen in the multi-family program, based on education provided to that group, even during the economic downturn. Mr. Goodwin provided recommendations for the coming year in cooperation with City staff to improve the program, including Eureka's participation in National Night Out block parties with their trucks and educational materials available and targeting specific areas in the community with the lowest participation rates based on their studies; additional work with staff and volunteers to review routes needing increased participation; and their intent to participate in several additional community events, including Earth Day and Run for the Roses Event, providing workshops on backyard and worm composting. Discussion among members, staff and Mr. Goodwin included, the number of compartments (2) on trucks with trucks not currently equipped with mechanical compaction; how to encourage manufacturers to make their packaging materials recyclable and marketable in today's market; differences in many items marked "1" or " 2" but not suitable for recycling due to the methods and/or additives used in their manufacture and their actual melting point during the recycling process; and ongoing searches by Eureka for additional markets and tracing materials up the chain to manufacturers seeking changes in their materials. Mr. Goodwin assured members that Eureka was motivated to continue working toward long-term solutions through their company mission, and their commitment to the end result; and encouraged consumers to contact their hot line with specific concerns and/or questions to work toward mutual solutions.