Single Stream Recycling coming to Bristol Township

Single Stream Recycling coming to Bristol Township

The Bristol Township Council has approved a newer, single stream recycling method, replacing the double stream recycling method currently in place in the Township. Single stream recycling makes it easier for Bristol Township residents to recycle household waste and provides increased revenue for the Township.

Beginning June 1, 2011, all collected recyclables will be transferred to Waste Management's new $20 million single stream recycling center in Northeast Philadelphia.

A combination of workers and automated trash separators drives the single stream recycling process. Glass, plastics and paper are separated at one fell swoop.

With the single stream recycling process, all forms of recyclables - glass, paper and plastic can be placed in one recycle bin. Waste Management officials have estimated that recycling tonnage may increase 2 to 3 times over present levels. Increased tonnage means reduced trash being sent to landfills which saves Bristol Township money and also will produce more revenue. As part of the agreement between Waste Management and Bristol Township, profit made from collected recyclables will be split and shared with Bristol Township which is expected to make $45 for each ton of trash collected.

Bristol Township residents are reminded that food waste and broken glass are not recyclable. When flattening cereal, cracker, cookie boxes and the like, residents should remove all food remnants. Pizza boxes are recyclable, but the pizza is not!

The transition to single stream recycling will not cost anything to Bristol Township residents. However, residents' increased recycling efforts may require multiple containers, which the Township has no plans to provide at this time. Bristol Township officials have stated that "Recycling" adhesive labels will be made available.

Single Stream Recycling coming to Bristol Township is good for Bristol Township residents, the Township coffers and the environment. It's a Win-Win-Win for all involved.