Community Support Directly Influences Recycling Rates

New Survey Shows Correlation Between Community Support and Recycling Rates; Lead Batteries Remain Most Recycled Item

According to a new Pew Research Center Survey, a person’s address is one of the biggest factors in determining his or her recycling perceptions. The data shows that the rules, practices and community norms around recycling vary considerably from place to place, and they contribute to dramatically different local recycling levels.

The survey is part of a study covering issues involving climate change, energy and the environment. Good news: The article reiterates 2015 data from the Environmental Protection Agency showing that 99 percent of lead batteries are recycled. That is the highest percentage of any major waste stream.