California recycling increase attributed to new initiatives

California’s recycling rate increased to 65 percent during the first half of 2005, up from the 59 percent rate in all of 2004, according to the Sacramento-based Department of Conservation (DOC). The DOC partially attributes the increase to the organization’s Recycling Starter Kit, which provides schools, businesses and organizations with the elements, such as a recycling bin, to begin recycling programs. According to the DOC, 3,200 businesses and organizations have ordered the kit since its introduction.

California’s efforts have also resulted in an increase in beverage container recycling. According to the DOC, Californians recycled 2.5 billion clear plastic bottles last year.