As states and local governments pursue higher recycling or diversion goals, the concept of mechanically separating recyclables from garbage is gaining increased interest. Â In response to this interest, the National 91²Ö¿â &; Recycling Association has developed a white paper on the different kinds of materials processing facilities for recyclables, with an emphasis on residential mixed waste processing.
In the paper, the Association notes that it is technology neutral and opposes the use of flow control or other provisions mandating the use of specific waste management and recycling facilities. Â The paper describes several types of processing facilities that differ by the source of the material they are processing. Â These facilities range from materials recovery facilities which process recyclables that are kept separate from waste to residential mixed waste processing facilities which process recyclables that are mixed with waste. Â The paper also looks at the impact of different facilities on recyclables such as metals and paper.
Residential mixed waste processing facilities provide greater access to potentially recyclable materials than does source separation which is dependent on generator participation. Â However, the potentially recyclable materials they process are more contaminated because recyclables are mixed with garbage, making recovery more difficult. Â
For more information, visit .
