Santa Clarita launches diaper recycling program - Municipal Recycling - California - Brief Article

Recycling Today, Nov, 2002

The City of Santa Clarita, Calif., is the first city in the United States to launch a diaper-recycling program.

Working in conjunction with Canada-based Knowaste LLC, the city will administer a six-month pilot program. Roughly 500 participants selected by the city will put used diapers in specially designed plastic bags or curbside bins for pick up.

The Knowaste process will sanitize and recycle the diaper components. The recycled plastic can be used for the production of plastic wood, roof shingles and vinyl wood siding. The long fibrous pulp can be used in wallpaper, shoe insoles and oil filters.

The demonstration program is funded by $250,000 in state funds and matching funds from Santa Clarita. Knowaste will provide $20,000 to the city for public awareness and education.