Do you live in the greater Cape Elizabeth, Maine area? If so, you may soon find that your neighborhood is much cleaner – whether you like it or not!
Thanks to a new ordinance, recycling is now mandatory for residents. And fines will be levied for those who fail to do their environmental part. This solid waste disposal ordinance went into effect Wednesday, July 8th.
The town of Cape Elizabeth recycles about 28% of all household waste. However, the goal is to eventually recycle about 50%, states Town Manager Michael McGovern. And this increased recycling represents big savings for the community – and its residents.
The local government estimates that transporting one ton of residential waste to the incinerator costs about $168; about $600,000 annually. Meanwhile, it only costs about $30 per ton to transport recycled materials to the incinerator. Therefore, by ramping up recycling efforts, Cape Elizabeth can save hundreds of thousands of dollars.
More than a year of discussions led to this decision to enforce recycling efforts. The town is doing everything possible to prepare and educate residents. For instance, a recycling educator has been installed who will be available at the recycling center or transfer station to assist residents.
The town government emphasizes that they don’t want to make things difficult for residents. While this new ordinance states that the non-recycling fine could be at $3,000, residents don’t have to worry about paying such a high amount. Rather, the fines will start at $200, and only increase if repeatedly broken. “Belligerent non-adherence could lead to a fine,” said McGovern. “There’ll be warnings. No one will be fined without a warning,” said McGovern.
And for Cape Elizabeth residents, or anyone else, one simple call or email to DumpsterSource will make the recycling experience much easier. Our trained professionals will come right to your home or business and remove your recyclable materials in Cape Elizabeth or nationwide. Just call (888) 423-8677, Monday through Friday, from 7:00 am EST until 8:00 pm EST. Or, you can reach them online, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
