HOME RESIDENTS BUSINESS LEISURE GOVERNMENT CALENDAR

Single Stream Pilot Recycling Program

Single Stream users will use one big blue bin for all recyclables instead of smaller bins separated for paper and other recyclables. The wheeled cart is the exact size of the carts currently used for weekly trash disposal (95 gallon) and will be labeled “For Recycling Only.”

Mayor Domenic J. Sarno and the Springfield DPW have announced a pilot program scheduled to begin on Sept. 20th in a section of Springfield's East Forest Park neighborhood. This program is aimed at increasing the rate of recycling by providing residents with the convenience of single-stream recycling. Instead of separating recyclables into two groups, paper and plastic, single-stream recycling will allow residents to mix those items into one cart.

The City of Springfield will carefully study the impact of single stream recycling on the overall recycling rate for those neighborhoods included in the pilot. If successful, the move to single stream recycling will be implemented in phases citywide.

Single Stream Pilot Q & A

What is Single Stream Recycling?

Single Stream recycling refers to a new system that takes the two recycling “streams” collected through the Springfield curbside program — mixed paper and commingled containers — and puts them together in one wheeled cart. The sorting of the recyclables will be done by machines at a processing facility. It is still important to follow the same guidelines applied to the two-bin program, except you put the two streams together.

Why a Pilot?

The City will launch a targeted pilot program to gather information on the potential cost savings of single stream recycling. The area will be measured to determine the increases in recycling and the decrease in rubbish. This will provide valuable information as the City moves forward exploring the single stream option.

Why Single Stream?

Single stream recycling will allow residents in the pilot area to mix recyclable paper, plastic and glass in one cart. This method of curbside recycling is more convenient for residents because it requires no sorting of items. Besides that, it has other advantages:

  • Higher recycling rates. Studies have shown that single stream recycling increases recycling and decreases rubbish. This can amount to a substantial savings for the citizens of Springfield.
  • More recyclables can be collected more efficiently with a larger cart.
  • No heavy lifting. Residents will no longer have to carry blue bins out to the curb. The wheeled cart will be easier for residents and collection crews, limiting worker injury.

When will I get my cart?

The Single Stream Pilot program service will begin with the arrival of your new carts on September 20th.  Residents do not have to be home to accept delivery.

What do I have to do if I am in the Pilot Area?

For the Pilot customer, no action is required. An informational letter will be mailed to all participating households and their carts will be delivered September 20th.  Single Stream starts, as soon as residences receive their 95 gallon cart. Customers should place their recycling cart at the curb every other week with their garbage carts on their usual pickup day.

How do I recycle if I am not in the pilot area?

Residents that are not in the pilot area will have no change in their collection.

Trash Fee:

Page last updated:  Monday, November 22, 2010 08:46 am