I have lived in cities that require the recyclables to be sorted and those that utilize integrated bins (plastics, glass and aluminum in the same bin) and while the later is more work for the waste management company, I think it helps facilitate community members getting involved in the recycling efforts.  People are generally lazy so lessening the work necessary to recycle is a plus.

We have curbside recycling that comes every other week.  I recycle so much that I would prefer every week but, every other week works better for our town financially.  We had to buy our own bins for $6.(which are similar in size to a post office letter carrier bin)  I bought 2 and I fill those and a small garbage can by the time two weeks are up.  And that’s just our co-mingled recyclables.(glass, metal, plastic 1 & 2)  I also use a paper grocery bag to put out all the paper recycling.  And I also recycle just aluminium cans in another bag and take that to Cash for Cans myself!  :)

When I lived in Arizona, the city provided you with two large garbage bins.( the kind on wheels with a lid )  One for regular trash and one for recycling.  Pick ups were on different days.  They took plastic 1, 2 and 6! 

And I think people recycle more if they have a bigger container.  I know people here who fill the small $6 bin and then anything over that they throw out.  It’s sad, but people are lazy.  They need everything spelled out for them when it comes to recycling.

My husband used to live in Oregon and they charged you per bag of trash.  I think that’s the way to go to get people to recycle.

I read recently that the a lot of the glass that is recycled in the “everything” recycling is actually thrown out. When it used to be separated, they were able to use like 95% of it compared to like 70% that they get from the combined recycling. I think this is offset a lot by the convenience though. I take all of my recycling because I found a place that will recycle 6 also. Luckily it is on my way to other things I have to do.

In my opinion, effort leads to effort, so if people are given opportunity, a lot of them will try harder, and maybe learn a little more.

Our County breaks even on glass (recycled separately at 2 drop off locations).  Maybe we should consider leaving the glass out of a co-mingle and encourage glass recycling as is.  I think the glass does very well with bars, restaurants, etc that are trying to cut disposal costs.  I am not sure how many residents recycle their glass (within the incorporated area where garbage pick up is 2X week w/out recycle at this time).

In a recent web cast, it was clear that separate recyclables result more use of the recyclable material (typically) than co-mingled.  But - the costs/ease of collecting are better with the co-mingled.  It is certainly worth weighing all options.  Also, we have constraints in our area because we are rural and farther away from many innovative recycling centers. 

Thanks guys for all the great suggestions to think about!