Michigan sets the highest recycling record in state history

IRON MOUNTAIN, Mich. (WLUC) – The Dickinson County Waste Processing Facility processes nearly 14 tons of recyclable material every two weeks.

It’s just part of a statewide effort to increase recycling in Michigan.

Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy reports that Michigan residents recycled nearly 700,000 tons of recyclable materials in 2023, setting a new record for the state.

Tracy Purrenhage, recycling specialist at EGLE, says the department has been monitoring rates for nearly a decade.

“We have been monitoring and calculating recycling rates since around 2014 and have observed a steady increase in the recycling rate since then,” said Purrenhage.

Almost all of the recyclables in Dickinson County eventually go to a larger facility in Marquette County. Marquette County is able to process all of these recyclables thanks in part to an EGLE grant of nearly $900,000.

Purrenhage says state funding helps the department meet communities’ recycling needs.

“This has allowed us to partner with communities, counties, programs, nonprofits and businesses to help them improve access to recycling both curbside and through drop-off locations,” Purrenhage said.

Purrenhage says recycling can help Michigan meet other climate goals, such as reducing energy emissions.

“When we recycle, when we choose to accept the material and not bury it in landfills, and when we choose to use it for other purposes, we avoid the energy consumption that occurs in the extraction of raw materials and natural resources,” Purrenhage said.

If recycling continues to increase, EGLE expects Michigan to reach a 30% recycling rate by 2030.

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