Sioux Falls Goes Green in 2014, Sets New Recycling Record

The city of Sioux Falls deserves a gigantic pat on the back!

We set a record last year for recycling in the city.

Nearly one-fourth of what Sioux Falls trash collectors hauled away in 2014 was sent to recyclers.

The 23.5 percent recycling rate was the highest since the city began monitoring it in 2008. That number exceed the goal the city had set for 2014, which was 21.8 percent.

According to city officials we can chalk up the record year to the public embracing the recycling effort within the community and a heightened focus on sustainability by public works employees.

Public Works Director Mark Cotter says, "The high recycling rate is not only good for the environment, it also can save taxpayers money. If the city can extend the life of its landfill, it will delay the need to develop a new site."

Our mission in 2015 according to Sustainability Coordinator Jessica Lantgen is to match or exceed the 2014 rate.

Source: The Rapid City Journal