Survey finds recycling lacking in Ohio

Recycling Today, March, 2005

A statewide survey conducted by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) finds that more than 60 percent of Ohio's residential and commercial waste can be recycled.

The "What's In Our Garbage? Ohio's Waste Characterization Study" concludes that Ohioans generate and dispose of more cardboard, office paper, newsprint and mixed paper each year than any other items. The study was conducted at 14 landfills and transfer stations, where 460 loads of Ohio-generated waste were examined during the spring and fall of 2003.

Paper made up 41 percent of Ohio's total waste stream by weight, while recyclable plastics constituted 16 percent. Glass and metals also are being disposed of in large quantities.

Data from the study is intended to assist ODNR and recycling program managers to target specific materials for recycling.