DNR study compares trash, recycling volumes

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About $64 million worth of plastics are being buried in Wisconsin landfills each year, when they could be recycled instead, according to a new study commissioned by the state DNR.

The agency says it will run a pilot project this spring to expand the recycling of flexible film packaging. DNR Secretary Cathy Stepp says it would be a “win-win” for both the state’s economy and the environment. That’s because the expanded recycling would create more jobs and new opportunities for small-to-medium-sized plastics’ recyclers.

The study said the DNR could improve the economy even more by allowing more plastics to be recycled like clam-shell containers, drink cups, and margarine tubs – in addition to plastic bags and other film-type plastics. The report said Wisconsin employs about 40,000 people in the plastics industry, the eighth-highest total in the nation.

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