Detroit curbside recycling used by only about 10 percent

DETROIT (AP) - A curbside recycling program offered in Detroit since last year is being used by only about 10 percent of residents.

The Detroit Free Press reports (https://on.freep.com/1K4dArO ) the update comes from city officials about the program, which allows homeowners to opt into curbside recycling.

For participants, there’s a one-time cost of $25 for a recycling container. Curbside recycling was introduced along with the city’s shift to privatized trash pickup.

Department of Public Works Director Ron Brundidge says the amount the city pays private waste-haulers for recycling is tied to the number of participating households.

The Michigan Environmental Council and Zero Waste Detroit, a collaborative of more than 20 community and environmental organizations, are accepting contributions to help offset the cost of recycling bins for those city residents who can’t afford them.

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Information from: Detroit Free Press, https://www.freep.com