Recycling in Delaware
Two entities of the State of Delaware implement programs related to recycling. The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) is the state environmental agency dealing with a wide variety of issues including wildlife, water quality, parks, and pollution. The Delaware Solid Waste Authority (DSWA) operates the three municipal solid waste landfills and also operates several recyclables collection programs.
DNREC Programs
Providing Support to the Recycling Public Advisory Council (RPAC)
The RPAC was established by an Executive Order of the Governor in 2000. The RPAC's charge is to advise the state on recycling matters, with a goal of diverting 51% of the municipal solid waste generated in Delaware. In addition to providing technical and administrative support to the RPAC, DNREC most notably prepares and produces the Annual Report of the RPAC and works with a subcommittee to calculate the yearly measurement of recycling. For more information, visit the RPAC web site or call 302-739-9403.
Administering the Recycling Assistance Grant Program
DNREC takes pride in assisting schools, municipalities, community groups, and non-profit organizations with implementing or improving recycling programs and reducing the amount of waste contributing to our landfills. The program has been around since 2001, and has provided nearly $400,000 in funding thru 2009. More information on the recycling grants can be found online or by calling 302-739-9403.
Education and Outreach
DNREC conducts a variety of outreach activities designed to increase diversion and public awareness. In addition to individual contacts, DNREC participates in public events such as the Earth Day celebrations, the Delaware State Fair, Coast Day, school presentations, and community presentations.
Supporting the Diversion of Yard Waste
DNREC has supported the diversion of yard waste as a significant and effective way to reduce landfilling and increase the recyclables diversion rate. DNREC initiated the ban on yard waste at the Cherry Island Landfill and has supported that through outreach and education. DNREC has also established three community yard waste demonstration sites that divert approximately 7,500 tons of material from the landfill each year.
Pollution Prevention Program
The Pollution Prevention Program was established in the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) by the General Assembly in 1990 as a non-regulatory program to provide assistance to businesses and industrial facilities in identifying and implementing waste reduction opportunities. More information on the Pollution Prevention Program can be found online or by calling 302-739-9909.
General Activities
DNREC is involved in a number of other projects including participation in MACREDO activities, participation in Northeast Recycling Council (NERC) activities, participation in Association of State and Territorial Solid Waste Management Officials (ASTSWMO), participation in EPA initiatives, oversight of the Delaware Beverage Container Law (Bottle Bill), operation of the Beneficial Use Determination Program to manage waste reduction programs with a greater environmental concern, and more. For more information on DNREC’s general activities visit DNREC’s website or call 302-739-9403.
DSWA Programs
Recycle Delaware Drop-off Program
The DSWA operates a voluntary drop-off program for several recyclables. The drop-off program has switched to single-stream collection in early 2008, but locations may also collect items such as oil filters, batteries, and textiles. The DSWA has about 140 drop-off locations statewide.
Curbside Recycling
The DSWA operates a voluntary curbside recycling collection program available statewide. In addition to individual subscriptions, several municipalities and communities have service agreements for community-wide curbside recycling collection. (Curbside recycling programs are also available from some private waste haulers.)
Electronic Goods Recycling Program
The DSWA collects electronic goods at several of its drop-off locations, transfer stations, and landfills. Collection is also available to schools and businesses.
Household Hazardous Waste Program
The DSWA holds several Household Hazardous Waste collection events throughout the state. Residents can properly dispose of hazardous material from their households free of charge.
Yard Waste
The DSWA collects yard waste separately at two of its landfills where it is managed as mulch or compost. The DSWA also offers a curbside yard waste collection program. (Several waste haulers in Northern New Castle County also offer yard waste collection.)
Public Education and Outreach
DSWA outreach programs include classroom presentations, landfill tours, the DSWA website, brochures, educational materials, and its toll-free Citizens’ Response Line. The DSWA also participates in a wide variety of events and holds its own yearly Earth Day event.
For more information on DSWA’s activities visit the DSWA’s website or call 800-404-7080.
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