Local towns and Summit County government are considering changes to trash and recycling service. Summit County’s recycling rate is 20%, which means that 80% of the waste we produce is landfilled. Our landfill is slated to close in 2056 if we don’t recycle and compost more.
Pay as You Throw and Universal Recycling are two programs proven to increase recycling. Learn more:
- Watch the recordings of resident or business forums below.
- Visit our list of Frequently Asked Questions on these programs.
- For all inquiries, please send them to info@staging.highcountryconservation.org.
Applies to all commercial entities and HOAs with dumpsters for trash service.
Pay as You Throw vs. Universal Recycling
Pay as You Throw (PAYT)
Applies to those with an individual bin for curbside trash collection
Pay as You Throw incentivizes recycling through a utility model similar to how you pay for electricity– the more trash generated, the more a person pays for service. PAYT applies to residents with curbside trash collection with individual bins/carts (see picture at top of page).
- Recycling service will be included with all trash service.
- Residents will be offered three different bin sizes for trash collection, with the smallest bin costing the least. The new program will provide an economic incentive to waste less and recycle more. In our current system, residents pay a flat rate for trash services with an additional fee for recycling, so there is no incentive to reduce waste.
- Residents will continue to use the same trash/recycling providers that they currently utilize.
- Estimated program start is in early 2023.
Universal Recycling
Applies to all commercial entities and HOAs with dumpsters for trash service
Universal Recycling increases recycling by giving access to recycling to all local residents and businesses. This program will apply to businesses and residents that share dumpsters for trash and/or recycling service. With Universal Recycling, all residents and businesses that have trash collection must also have single-stream recycling service.
- For businesses that have a liquor license – including restaurants and bars – glass recycling collection will also be required. Recycling collection will need to be 50% (by volume) of trash service.
- There will also be additional requirements for public spaces and hotels.
- Estimated program start is early 2023 with a phase-in period during the next 18-24 months.
*Please note: these programs will not apply to residents who do not have trash service at their homes.
