Despite considerable interest and efforts to increase recycling since 1990, data from many states indicate a slowing or even decline in recovery levels. With progress lagging to meet recycling targets, many locales are evaluating the next steps. Growth in recycling in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, which has a goal of 46 percent recycling by 2000, has slowed and begun to stall since 1995. Based on the most recent figures available, the statewide recycling and composting rate in 1996 was 33 percent, and in 1997 it stood at 34 percent. This article summarizes one state's approach to the problem. Since this effort involved more than 50 national and regional experts and professionals in the development of the recommendations, the results also may be useful to other jurisdictions.
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