America Recycles Day, which is recognized nationally on November 15 each year, aims to increase awareness of the economic and environmental benefits of recycling while inspiring consistent and informative recycling habits.
Ahead of Saturday, the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) is reminding South Carolinians of the agency's resources to make recycling simple all year long through its ongoing initiative, Recycle Right SC.
SCDES reports that overall, South Carolina has recycled more than 30.2 million tons of material since fiscal year 2000. That number is the equivalent to more than 4.2 million garbage trucks of waste recycled rather than disposed of at landfills – adding an estimated five years to the life expectancy of landfills statewide.
Agency leaders say they are proud to support America Recycles Day and efforts to prevent pollution and conserve natural resources, which drive significant economic impacts through jobs and industry.
“America Recycles Day recognizes the essential role that recycling plays in helping secure a sustainable future – and we have much to celebrate,” said Myra Reece, director of SCDES. “Recycling is a South Carolina success story. But there is always more work to be done, especially with our state being one of the fastest-growing in the nation.”
South Carolina now has recycling programs in each of its 46 counties, nearly 70 curbside programs, and more than 550 drop-off locations that accept a wide array of commodities. Find yours here.
Also of important note, the state's recycling industry has an estimated $13.5 billion annual economic impact, including more than 40,000 jobs, according to a study done by the College of Charleston.