Comparative Analysis Of Recycling Programs In The Southeastern United States

In South Carolina there is an established recycling cluster, and research has shown that an increase in the recycling rate in South Carolina will lead to a direct boost in the overall economy of South Carolina. In order to increase the amount of recycling in the state, more information on tactics for accomplishing such a task were needed. EngenuitySC, an economic development firm which works on boosting the economy in South Carolina, currently has a focus on the South Carolina recycling industry. This research of recycling economies in other southeastern states was conducted and the information was gathered to benchmark recycling. Then the steps that would be most economically advantageous if implemented were selected to be advised. While South Carolina has better recycling statistics than many other southeastern states, with a current rate of 31.8%, a much better percentage is desired. The research conducted was for the purpose of looking outside of South Carolina to see what other states have done in the area of both laws and regulations in attempts to increase their own recycling. Then all the data on other states’ recycling were taken and the different strategies that showed the most success once employed were pulled out. In conclusion it was found that South Carolina can improve its recycling the most through a few different tactics: a pay-as-you-throw program, bans on certain materials from landfills, and expansions of current incentive programs for individuals and companies