Michigan sets new recycling record

State officials announced Monday that Michigan residents set a new recycling record for the third year in a row.

The Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy said state residents recycled nearly 23 percent of their trash last year, up from just under 15 percent before 2019.

Officials say diverting landfills by disposing of cardboard, glass, metals and other recyclable materials reduces the state’s greenhouse gas emissions and contributes to Michigan’s economic output.

“When Michiganders recycle cans and bottles, they get money back and support Michigan businesses with the materials they need,” Governor Gretchen Whitmer said in a press release. “We are becoming leaders in recycling and must continue to do better.”

The state has set a goal to recycle 30% of waste by 2029. To expand access to recycling facilities, EGLE is distributing over $5 million in infrastructure improvement grants to local communities.

The funds will be used to finance a number of projects, including building new waste disposal and processing facilities. The City of Lansing will receive $300,000 to purchase a recycling truck and dumpsters for processing commercial waste.

“We know that people in Michigan want to recycle properly, and … we provide them with the means to do so,” EGLE Director Phil Roos said in a press release.