NI 10-30-05

It's not a done deal, of course, but if the proposal to establish a cooperative venture between Northumberland County and Coal Township to implement a countywide recycling program came to pass, the benefits for the entire region would be substantial.

Frankly, Northumberland County is way behind the 8-ball compared to many other counties, neighboring Schuylkill County included, when it comes to recycling. Even though Northumberland County is financially strapped, a robust recycling program need not be out of range if the county took advantage of state grants which are available.
A strong recycling program goes hand-in-hand with economic development. Elimination of illegal dumping and littering improves a community's self-image and physical appearance, making it a more attractive site for locating businesses and industries.

There has been growing (and welcome) emphasis on cleanup of dump sites, but these gallant efforts will come to naught unless government also gives people viable alternatives. Even though the site cleanups and enforcement efforts are effective, there will still be people who want to take the easy way out by dumping in secluded spots.
Recycling can break the cycle of indiscriminate dumping. If it is easier to recycle than to drive to an illegal dumping spot, why would someone not want to recycle? Why discard something if it can be easily recycled for additional productive use?

Recycling is perfectly logical, and certainly more people would buy into the concept if they could drop off the items easily (or have them picked up). Convenience and government promotion are two factors that are vital in the creation of an effective recycling program.

Since Coal Township already has a recycling center, a county recycling program would not have to re-invent the wheel.
County and township officials deserve credit for looking into a recycling partnership. If the partnership comes about, prospects for success would be good, since the state Department of Environmental Resources (DEP) is promoting the idea and is highly supportive.