Calling all Floridians with Innovative Recycling Ideas

Florida has a new statewide recycling goal and the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is asking residents and visitors to join in to help reach it. The 2008 Energy Bill signed by Governor Charlie Crist establishes a new statewide recycling goal of 75 percent to be achieved by 2020. DEP is directed to develop a program to achieve this goal and submit it to the Legislature for approval by January 1, 2010.

The first public meeting to focus on the 75 percent recycling goal is scheduled in Orlando on September 22, 2008. The public is encouraged to attend to share ideas and exchange information about increasing recycling efforts to divert more waste from landfills. Public input is critical to the success in achieving this ambitious goal and any new and innovative approaches that address existing waste streams are welcome.

DEP has established a Web site, http://www.dep.state.fl.us/waste/recyclinggoal75, for the new recycling goal which also includes additional details about the September 22 public meeting and agenda. Please check this site often for updated news and documents as this endeavor unfolds. To share suggestions on how Florida can achieve the 75 percent recycling goal, interested parties should plan on attending this very important upcoming meeting, as well as future public meetings. Comments can also be submitted to the Web site, emailed to Recycling.Goal@dep.state.fl.us or mailed to the Department of Environmental Protection, M.S. 4570, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400. The Department is eager to hear any ideas for this vital and revolutionary endeavor.

Florida’s New Recycling Goal Public Meeting
Orlando City Hall, Council Chambers
400 South Orange Avenue
September 22, 2008
1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.