Recycling really is a great idea

March 24, 2003

by Kate Diffenderfer. (Diffenderfer is the program assistant for the Maryland Coastal Bays Foundation).

Concerns over escalating environmental pollution, diminishing natural resources and ever-expanding landfills have resulted in the current trend towards waste minimization. The initial misconception that recycling would be an expensive endeavor with little financial reward has long been dismissed. Recycling uses less energy, emits less air and water pollution, and uses less non-renewable resources. In response to these concerns, many communities have initiated recycling programs. The Town of Ocean City implemented a voluntary recycling program in 1991 to tackle some of its own issues regarding the best ways to dispose of garbage.

Since 1991, Ocean City has been operating the 65th Street Recycling Center and over the years, it has expanded to include seven voluntary 24-hour drop off/recycling bins. In addition to aluminum, the city collects recyclable materials such as glass, plastic, newspapers, corrugated cardboard, office paper, and uncontaminated motor oil and antifreeze.

Curbside recycling for single-family residential homes is also offered and currently serves around 5,000 households. To address the need for condominium curbside recycling, the resort initiated a 'condo-side' recycling program that is available to anyone living in a condo, apartment, or townhouse that would like the service.

While recycling is voluntary for the citizens of Ocean City, businesses must follow mandatory regulations. Recycling glass and aluminum in Ocean City is mandatory under a city ordinance for businesses holding a liquor license allowing on-site consumption. Commercial businesses must also recycle cardboard. Businesses not in compliance with mandatory recycling guidelines can first expect a visit from an Ocean City Recycling staff member for a verbal warning. If compliance is still not met, a formal letter of warning is sent. Businesses not in compliance after both initial warnings are then subject to a fine of $100 per day until compliance is met.

Another important program that Worcester County is involved in is the Mercury Recycling Program, which is headed by the Maryland Department of Environment. This program accepts thermostats and thermometers at its local collection center in Snow Hill at the Worcester County Department of Health. Mercury and other heavy metals, improperly managed, pose danger to humans, wildlife and environmental health.

It is important to remember that even though a successful voluntary recycling program has been initiated, not everyone is recycling and not everyone is aware of its benefits. A large portion of this country's garbage is still relegated to landfills and dumps. Today, new landfill costs have skyrocketed. This expense has translated into additional fees or taxes for the community.

Aside from the fact that available space in existing landfills and for creating new landfills is extremely limited, landfills themselves create new types of waste. As garbage decomposes, moisture filters through it producing a toxic liquid known as leachate. Modern landfills are designed to reduce the amount of moisture that reaches the garbage. Even with treatment, landfills still pose a contamination threat to surface and ground water, which feed your drinking water taps and the coastal bays. Ocean City annually documents the refuge that it has recycled and kept out of our landfills. The Annual Refuge Report for 2002 (July 1, 2001-June 30, 2002) is as follows:

White goods (appliances): 283 tons
Aluminum (mainly cans): 45 tons
Glass: 914 tons
Mixed paper: 398 tons
Cardboard: 1,305 tons
Heavy metals: 100 tons
Plastic: 12 tons
Other (clothes, used oil, etc): 76 tons
Christmas trees: 8.86 tons

The life of a landfill can be extended 20-24 years by meeting a moderate recycling goal. Worcester County set a recycling rate of 35% for 2002. Considering the fiscal and environmental costs involved with constructing
new landfills and the benefits to industry, recycling does make a difference in the coastal bays.

For information on Ocean City's Recycling programs, call (410) 524-5356.

For information on Worcester County's Recycling programs, call (410) 632-3177.

Part of the National Estuary Program, the Maryland Coastal Bays Program is a cooperative effort between Worcester County, Berlin, and Ocean City which have come together to produce the first ever management plan for their bays. Home    |    About Us    |    Contact Us    |    Site Directory Copyright 2003 - Maryland Coastal Bays Program Questions? Email: mcbp@mdcoastalbays.org