Cincinnati Ends Recycling Rewards Program with Recyclebank

Cincinnati and New York-based Recyclebank have ended their current recycling rewards program, and the city plans to launch a new revamped program in the near future.

The city ended the program after deciding the participation rates were disappointing, along with considering program costs, according to a Cincinnati news release.

Cincinnati is revamping the program to meet its original intent, to encourage and reward citizens who recycle. "We will continue to improve access, make recycling easy, and find new ways to incentivize more residents to participate," said Larry Falkin, director of the city's Office of Environmental Quality.

Residents and small businesses in Cincinnati recycled 17, 815 tons in 2012 compared with 12,175 tons in 2008.

Cincinnati has a recycling goal of 25 percent by 2013 and 30 percent by 2015.