By the end of 2012, Hennepin County plans on doubling the rate of recycling in the city of Minneapolis.
This is a lofty goal, considering the current rate sits at only 17 percent.
Part of the reason for this low rate is undoubtedly the difficulty and complexity of the system already in place.
Currently, Minneapolis enforces a seven bin system, which separates cans and aluminum, glass, plastic, newspaper, magazines and cardboard.
In order to double the current recycling rate, Minneapolis is going to have to come up with an easier way to recycle âÄî preferably with fewer bins.
Many of the cities around Minneapolis already use a one- or two-bin system, which would be less confusing and encourage citizens to recycle when they otherwise would not.
Enacting a one- or two-bin system would be especially convenient for students. Students often live in small spaces already, with many people in the same living space. Eliminating most of the bins needed to separate the recycling would free up living space and curb space. Plus, if the recycling system isnâÄôt so complicated, more students will utilize it.
If the city has any hope of reaching a recycling rate of 35 percent by the end of 2012, it will have to make changes to its current policy.
Switching to a one- or two-bin system is a great place to start. From there, the city should evaluate additional options to make the system even better and live up to the countyâÄôs high standards for recycling