ROOM TO GROW: Time to get serious about recycling
I recently had the opportunity to hear Kevin Barkley, director of the Macon-Bibb County Solid Waste Department, give an update to civic organizations, neighborhood associations and other departments regarding future plans for his department.
We've all heard the news that our landfill is nearing its capacity and will be closed. As a matter of fact, the site discontinued accepting waste at the Walker Road inert landfill as of Aug. 25, and the site must be closed by Feb. 18.
Since the Macon-Bibb consolidation, Barkley has worked to understand where services are duplicated or conversely, lacking. While he and his colleagues have a great deal of work ahead, our community has come to an important juncture in the road.
As our landfill closes (covering waste with two feet of dirt and permanent vegetation), leaders are discussing how we can best move forward. Perhaps it is time for our community to think a little differently.
How about expanding our recycling efforts -- really get serious about them?
The whole notion of recycling can be a game changer. While I'll admit, I'm one of the "feel-good, save-the-earth" kind of folks (and really, deep down, we all should be to some extent), there is a much bigger economic implication here. Yep, money -- did that get your attention? Why pay for someone to buy every piece of waste material that we generate if there are industries that would pay us for recyclables?
Granted, there are ups and downs tied to the recycling market, just as any other, but consider the possibilities. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the recycling industry in South Carolina grew to more than 37,000 employees in 2005 with $6.5 billion in economic impact. This contributed $69 million in state tax revenue.
Did you know that Georgia has one of the largest recycling infrastructures in the nation? More than 130 businesses used recycled materials to produce consumer goods. There are eight paper mills that use 100 percent recycled materials. One third of all plastic bottles (No. 1 PET) recycled in the United States get shipped to Georgia for use in the burgeoning carpet industry. Just up the road, Greensboro is home to Novelis, one of the largest aluminum recyclers in the world.
We use the terms "local" and "sustainable" as we talk about health and food these days. Think about these same ideas in terms of the recycling industry. Since we're located in the center of the state, isn't Macon-Bibb County in a prime location to reap the benefits of the recycling industry?
There are still many discussions to be had and approvals to be gained, but as a larger solid waste plan moves forward, a comprehensive recycling program should be considered. Barkley and his colleagues are available to talk to groups about the Macon-Bibb Solid Waste Plan. I'm quite certain that he'd also be interested in sharing his thoughts about recycling possibilities in our community. Contact him at 478-803-0499.
UPCOMING EVENTS
2016 Master Gardener Extension Volunteer program: Classes will be held each Thursday from Feb. 4-April 21.
Prior gardening experience is not necessary; a heart for community service is! Bibb County residents can contact Kathy at 478-751-6338 or kensley@uga.edu to receive application materials. Houston County residents can contact Teddie at 478-987-2028 or mg@uga.edu. Class fee is $195. Applications are due Dec. 1.
Contact Karol Kelly at karolk@uga.edu.
This story was originally published November 4, 2015 at 10:08 PM with the headline "ROOM TO GROW: Time to get serious about recycling ."