Single-stream credited with diversion jump in Conn.

April 25 -- Single-stream recycling is making a difference in Westport, Conn.

Since the town began a single-stream system in July, recyclable collections jumped 167% and will save the town $220,000, according to WestportNow.com.

Between July 2010 and March 2011, 937.26 tons of recyclables were diverted from a waste-to-energy plant, but from July 2011 to March 2012, those numbers increased to 2506.20 tons.

The town gets a $20 rebate for every ton brought to the processing facility in Hartford.

"As suggested by the increased recycling volumes, residents have been very supportive of the new initiative," Public Works Director Steve Edwards told the site.

Contact Waste & Recycling News reporter Vince Bond at vbond@crain.com or 313-446-1653.

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