Dear Editor:

I want to clarify why the Boothbay Region Refuse Disposal District (BRRDD) stopped recycling all plastics and opted to only recycle #2 plastics. First and most importantly, #2 plastics currently sell for $600/ton, mixed plastics $30/ton.

Last year, when we decided to stop taking the mixed plastic, the price was negative $80/ton for mixed verses $450/ton for just #2 plastic. That was not the only factor that led to our decision. We had a tough time finding a market to take the mixed plastic. Most mills that we ship to do not want mixed; they want the #2 plastic. Then we must pay to transport the plastic to the mill once we find someone to take it. The last load of mixed went to New Jersey at a cost of $800.

All trash that comes to the BRRDD does not go to a landfill. It goes to a waste-to-energy plant in Orrington (PERC) and is used to produce power. There is a cost, but the rate is $45/ton instead of $80/ton to recycle it. They have had a very good environmental record for the past 20 plus years.

We have continually had a recycling rate around 60 percent, which is at the top for the state of Maine. The only stuff that goes to a landfill is the CDB container. These items are stuffed furniture, construction material that can’t be recycled, and mattresses. We have cut the amount going to landfill substantially over the last 10-12 years.

We continually look to expand recycling when we can, but try to spend tax dollars wisely. The board of directors is tasked with both financial and environmental decisions that they don’t take lightly. Everyone wants to recycle more, but at what cost. That is the hardest question that the BRRDD faces every day.

In 2013 we had 15,467 tons brought into our facility. Of that amount, only 11 percent (1,700 tons) went to a landfill. Can it get better? Absolutely! As technology evolves I’m sure that number will go down, but we’re not there yet.

The board of directors meets monthly on the second Thursday of every month at 5 p.m. at the transfer station. The public is always welcome.

Steve Lewis, Operations Supervisor
Boothbay Region Refuse Disposal District