The Recycle Right Coalition is a powerful alliance of leading innovators in the solid waste and recycling industry. With a shared vision, this coalition advocates for policies and principles that aim to unlock California’s enormous potential in achieving waste reduction and addressing climate change.
In recent years, society has undergone a profound awakening to the myths surrounding recycling. Once viewed as a silver bullet solution to our environmental woes, recycling has faced a much-needed reality check in the public eye. People have come to recognize that not all materials are created equal when it comes to recycling, and the process itself is far from perfect. Most people now know the widely shared fact that only 9% of all the plastic we consume actually ends up getting recycled.
The myth of “single-stream recycling” being a panacea has been shattered, as we have come to realize that because of the ever changing make-up of our waste stream, single-stream recycling often results in contamination and inefficient sorting, rendering many materials unrecyclable. Furthermore, the global recycling market’s vulnerabilities have been exposed (thanks to articles like this one from the Atlantic) revealing the importance of reducing waste and reusing items whenever possible.
This knowledge of the state of recycling, now downloaded into many consumers’ minds is “The Great Recycling Awakening” and it is spurring a more critical and informed approach to sustainability. With our society now understanding that the system is and has always been broken, it is emphasizing the need for waste reduction and conscious consumption alongside recycling efforts.
So, what do we do with this new shift in recycling consciousness? The Recycling Partnership is calling this shift a “lack of confidence.” If consumers lack confidence in recycling, the clear next question is, a lack of confidence in who or what? Is it public leaders, the recycling industry, the manufacturers of products? Regardless of who or what is to blame – the loss of confidence in the recycling system creates a void and leaves the public wondering what to do next.
The power of societal awakenings and major shifts in consciousness lies in their potential to pave the way for new leaders who are focused on solutions that will guide us toward a more sustainable future. As society as a whole becomes increasingly aware of the need for change, there is a ripe opportunity for emerging business leaders to step forward with fresh perspectives and innovative solutions. These leaders can harness the collective energy and desire for positive transformation, galvanizing communities and organizations to take meaningful action.
Over the last 7 years supporting innovators in the industry Diversion Strategies has seen the promise of leaders with new ideas and the passion to turn the tide on recycling nay-saying. Leaders like Matanya Horowitz of AMP Robotics, Ryan Begin of Divert Inc, and Chloe Marie Songer and Stuart Ahlum of SuperCircle just to name a few.
By empowering and supporting these new voices, we can tap into the creativity and passion of a diverse generation of leaders who prioritize sustainability, social responsibility, and ethical governance. Together, they can shape policies, inspire grassroots movements, and drive businesses to adopt eco-friendly practices, ultimately steering us on a path towards a more harmonious coexistence with our planet.
Policy makers can play a pivotal role in ensuring that governments support and invest in recycling as a critical component of the circular economy. To achieve this, they must prioritize comprehensive legislation that incentivizes recycling initiatives, encourages investment into proven recycling technologies, and fosters collaboration between public and private sectors.
Effective policies may include disposal taxes that disincentivize landfilling and incineration as a method of managing waste, extended producer responsibility programs, and mandatory recycling targets. Additionally, we should be engaging in international cooperation to harmonize recycling standards and promote global sustainability efforts. By enacting and enforcing policies that promote recycling, policy makers can pave the way for a circular economy, reducing waste, conserving resources, and ultimately benefiting both the environment and the economy.
California, known for its progressive environmental initiatives, has set ambitious goals for waste reduction and combating climate change. The Recycle Right Coalition recognizes the importance of these goals and believes that by working together, we can make a significant impact.
Promoting Sustainable Practices
One of the primary objectives of the Recycle Right Coalition is to promote sustainable practices throughout California. This includes advocating for improved recycling infrastructure, increased access to recycling facilities, and the adoption of innovative technologies that enhance waste management processes.
By encouraging individuals, businesses, and communities to recycle right, we can divert a significant amount of waste from landfills. This not only reduces the burden on our environment but also conserves valuable resources and energy.
Education and Outreach
Another crucial aspect of the Recycle Right Coalition’s work is education and outreach. We believe that by raising awareness and providing accurate information, we can empower individuals to make informed decisions about waste management and recycling.
Through educational campaigns, workshops, and community events, we aim to educate Californians about the importance of recycling, proper sorting techniques, and the environmental benefits of waste reduction. By equipping individuals with the knowledge they need, we can encourage widespread participation and engagement in sustainable practices.
Collaboration and Advocacy
The Recycle Right Coalition recognizes that achieving California’s waste reduction and climate change goals requires collaboration across various sectors. We actively engage with policymakers, businesses, environmental organizations, and community leaders to advocate for policies and principles that support our mission.
By working together, we can influence legislation, develop innovative solutions, and implement effective strategies that drive positive change. Our coalition serves as a unified voice, representing the collective expertise and experience of the solid waste and recycling industry.
Unlocking California’s Potential
California has the potential to become a leader in waste reduction and combating climate change. By harnessing the collective efforts and expertise of the Recycle Right Coalition, we can unlock this potential and create a more sustainable future for all.
Through our advocacy, education, and collaboration, we aim to transform waste management practices, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve resources, and protect the environment. Together, we can make a significant impact and pave the way for a greener, more sustainable California.
Join the Recycle Right Coalition today and be a part of the movement towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.
