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A W Company Waste Management Co p y • The most effective recycling programs offer specialized containers for in-home storage of recyclables. The stacking plastic bins included in this proposal are one type of specialized container. We use similar bins in San Jose, California, where we provide weekly curbside recycling service for more than 60,000 homes. They are convenient because they take up little space, facilitate sorting, and are easy to carry to the curb on collection day. The bins also protect glass containers, prevent- ing a safety hazard. The final factor affecting recycling convenience, which is preparation requirements, is almost entirely beyond the control of the cities and contractor. Preparation requirements are almost always dictated by the markets receiving the materials. Fortunately, requirements in Minnesota are reasonable. Currently, newspapers must be bagged or bundled; metal neckrings must be removed from glass containers, and the containers rinsed. In other areas, residents have been inconvenienced by more restrictive requirements. For example, some markets require residents to crush cans or remove paper bales from glass containers. Effective Promotion The most successful recycling programs incorporate a strong marketing • campaign. Motivating people to recycle requires changing attitudes about waste, convenience and lifestyles. Communication efforts for recycling programs are not unlike those for seat belts, or against drunk driving. Recycling programs must be continually promoted to achieve a high level of participation. The promotion should provide residents with an under- standing of the need for recycling, clear instruction on procedures for material preparations, and periodic reports on program status. Because communication is an important feature of a recycling program, recycling services should cooperate with municipalities in developing recycling programs. •