415-484-9044

A Modest Proposal to Ban Recycling

A recent New York Times Op-Ed confronted the economics of recycling, asserting that in spite of significant government and media efforts to extol the virtues of recycling, it basically doesn’t make much sense, neither economically nor environmentally. So why even attempt to recycle or compost at all? Let’s just get rid of those blue and green bins altogether.

Who is the Winner of Recycling Cities?

While recycling and composting is still a challenge in some regions, more and more municipalities are becoming motivated to improve their recycling rates with the help of advanced waste reduction technologies such as organic waste pulpers. These new technologies have the advantage of offering even safer treatment and disposal options and providing new sources of renewable energy.

The Unintended Consequences of Good Sustainability Intentions

For many years, I have had to opportunity to work with school districts on a variety of waste reduction and recycling projects. Together, we have calculated the cost of purchasing recycled-content paper, figured out cost saving by using a chipper to process tree trimmings and how to set up classroom and cafeteria recycling/food scrap collection programs. School districts are creative and innovative institutions but can also implement projects that create unintended consequences.

San Diego Sustainability Circle Successes: Moving from Plans to Reality

In November, 2013, seven San Diego-area companies embarked on a six-month journey of sustainability learning, interaction and idea generation. Together, these seven participants generated 176 sustainability initiatives or an average of 25 per company and a combined total of $3.5 million in projected annual savings. Here’s a look at what four of the participants have achieved toward these goals.