USA – California is set to significantly enhance its recycling capabilities with the introduction of over 250 new recycling sites across 30 counties.
This ambitious expansion is supported by nearly US$70 million in beverage container redemption innovation grants from CalRecycle.
The grants aim to implement advanced recycling methods, including reverse vending machines, mobile recycling units, and bag-drop sites, focusing on underserved counties such as Butte, Imperial, Mendocino, Merced, and Modoc.
Among the grant recipients are supermarket chains Save Mart and Smart & Final, each awarded over US$2 million to install reverse vending machines in 19 counties.
Governor Gavin Newsom emphasized the state’s commitment to transforming recycling systems, stating, “California is taking bold action to transform our recycling systems and reduce the waste filling our landfills and polluting the environment.
“These modernized recycling sites will make it easier for Californians in every corner of the state to help create a more sustainable and resilient future for our communities and the planet.”
California has launched several initiatives to facilitate the recycling of beverage containers and make redemption more accessible for consumers.
Residents can now redeem wine, liquor, and large juice containers for cash. Additionally, new retailer takeback rules, set to commence next year, will expand recycling options in areas lacking recycling centers.
The state has also invested in programs that support recycling infrastructure, innovation, and accessibility throughout California, including further redemption innovation grants and grants for beverage container quality infrastructure and reusable beverage container recycling.
Earlier in 2024, California released draft regulations for the Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act (SB 54).
This nation-leading measure, signed by Governor Newsom, mandates producers to reduce single-use plastic waste and ensure that packaging is recyclable or compostable.
In June 2024, a coalition of plastic film recyclers and reusable bag manufacturers launched the Responsible Recycling Alliance (RRA) in California.
Scotland launches consultation on 25p charge for single-use cups
In a related development, the Scottish Government has initiated a public consultation on the proposed 25p charge for single-use disposable beverage cups.
This initiative is part of the Circular Economy (Scotland) Bill, which was unanimously approved by the parliament in June this year.
The bill aims to reduce consumption and environmental harm by introducing a minimum charge for single-use items.
The consultation, open until 14 November 2024, seeks public input on various aspects of the proposed charge, including its level, scope, and impact on businesses and consumers.
The move aligns with Scotland’s strategic goal to reduce and reuse, with a commitment to implement the charge by the end of 2025.
The usage of single-use disposable beverage cups in Scotland has surged, with an estimated 388.7 million cups used in 2021-22, leading to 5,400 metric tons of waste annually.
The proposed charge is expected to build on the success of the 2014 single-use carrier bag charge, which proved effective in changing consumer behavior.
Net Zero and Energy Acting Cabinet Secretary Gillian Martin emphasized the initiative’s importance, stating, “We want to build on the success of the single-use carrier bag charge introduced in 2014—it demonstrated that a charge can raise awareness, change behavior, and promote responsible consumption.
“A charge for single-use disposable beverage cups will therefore be modeled on this approach, where appropriate, as it will be familiar and is effective.
“I am also committed to implementing this in a way that aligns with our New Deal for Business principles, minimizing any burdens as much as possible while achieving the overall objective of reducing our reliance on single-use items.”
She further noted that the consultation would help develop an approach to drive responsible consumption and reuse as part of Scotland’s broader efforts to build a greener, more sustainable future.
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