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 waste management, wildlife, water quality, and parks. 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 originally established by an Executive Order of the Governor in 2000 and, with the passage of Universal Recycling in June 2010, it is now a legislatively recognized council. The RPAC's charge is to advise the state on recycling matters, with a goal of diverting 50% of the municipal solid waste generated in Delaware by 2015 and 60% by 2020. 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 page or call 302-739-9403.
Administering the Universal Recycling Grant and Low Interest Loan Program
DNREC takes pride in assisting schools, municipalities, community groups, private haulers, and non-profit organizations with implementing or improving recycling programs and reducing the amount of waste contributing to our landfills. 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. For more information on DNREC's recycling programs visit the Delaware Recycle's web page.
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 in 2007 and, starting in 2011, the yard waste ban is also in affect at the Central and Southern landfills resulting in a statewide ban on the disposal of yard waste. DNREC also has two community yard waste demonstration sites in northern New Castle County that manage approximately 10,000 tons of yard waste each year.
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, 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 170 drop-off locations statewide.
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 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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