Battle Moves for Dealing with the National Sword

30 Aug 2017

Resource Recycling reported last month that China will be banning imports of recovered mixed paper, as well as recycled PET, PE, PVC, and PS, textiles and vanadium slag - woudl be baneed from import into the country later this year.

Many in the industry feel the ban would have a devastating impact on recycling on a global scale, others feel more optimistic as the ban may drive more materials to remain stateside and further bolster domestic market development here in the U.S.

Regardless, the uncertainty of what is to come has many fearing the worst. Below are some tips and tools from The Recycling Partnership in dealing with China's National Sword.

1. Maintain a level head. Focus on the fundamentals in good times and bad, and your program will be stronger and more resilient.
2. Keep your friends close. Clear, frequent communication with your MRF will help you anticipate market challenges and ensure you’re on the same page regarding material mix, quality, and resident communication.
3. Quality counts. No matter the market situation, you’re better off with a clean recycling stream. Low contamination rates keep processing costs down and heighten marketability of materials. Use these 6 steps to keep contamination in check.
4. Stay the course. Recycling is a highly appreciated public service that delivers powerful environmental benefits and reduces dependence on costly disposal. Keep your residents recycling and maximize the capacity of your program. Click here for free graphics to engage your public.
 
As with any market-based industry, cycles come and go. Stay tuned for more tips and tools to weather the lows and stretch out the highs.