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A News Journal editorial on June 11 concerning Senate Bill 225's lack of funding for recycling is an unrealistic view of the Delaware Solid Waste Authority's financial situation and myths perpetuated by DSWA.
DSWA's 2005 assets exceed its liabilities for future landfill responsibilities by nearly $103 million. Its earnings exceed liabilities yearly by more than four times the $3 million tipping fee surcharge removed from S.B. 225. DSWA has the funds to pay for recycling and to help private haulers, recyclers and communities with startup costs.
Residents should not have to pay extra for haulers to pick up recyclables. With two pickups per week, one would be waste and the other recyclables.
Zero waste, or close to it, can be achieved in Delaware, as suggested by two consultants recently brought in by local environmental and community organizations. Neil Seldman of the Institute for Local Self-Reliance in Washington and Richard Anthony of San Diego suggested recycling goals of 25 percent by 2008; 50 percent by 2009; and 75 percent by 2012 in both residential and commercial solid waste as possible here.
Consultants have guided many cities and counties in the United States and all over the world. The recycling markets, although always fluctuating, have never been better.
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