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Environmental commission survey finds strong support for recycling but cost and access limit participation
Summary
The Environmental Stewardship Commission presented a 567‑response recycling survey showing 95% of respondents support a community recycling service but 85% are dissatisfied with current options.
The Environmental Stewardship Commission (ESC) presented results of a 19‑question recycling survey that drew 567 responses and found broad public interest in a community recycling service, but dissatisfaction with current options and barriers related to cost and access.
Commissioner Joelle Buffa told the council that more than 95% of respondents said having a community‑wide recycling service is important while about 85% reported being dissatisfied with current recycling options. Buffa summarized that 318 respondents said they do not currently recycle, citing lack of curbside service and not knowing where to recycle; 249 respondents reported they do recycle using a mix of drop‑offs, private services, Bisbee or trips to Tucson.
Buffa said the survey suggests outreach and clearer public information would increase recycling participation: many respondents said they do not feel they have enough knowledge to recycle effectively, and roughly 80% indicated they would use a drop‑off center eight miles or more from home if it were available. Cost is a limiting factor: many respondents said they would use drop‑off recycling only if free and reported dissatisfaction with existing paid options.
The ESC proposed short‑term steps such as resuming local glass drop‑off in partnership with Bisbee and posting clearer information (QR codes and “where to recycle” signage) on city web pages and at public facilities. Medium‑term options include partnering with businesses that baled cardboard and studying whether enterprise/residential-fee funds could support drop‑off infrastructure. Long‑term proposals include pursuing grant funding or a feasibility study through ADEQ, The Recycling Partnership or nonprofits and creating incentives to reduce single‑use packaging.
Why it matters: survey results show broad public support for recycling but also underscore funding and logistical barriers. The commission recommended a mix of outreach, partnerships and feasibility work to build a durable program.
Next steps: the ESC asked council whether to include a recycling feasibility study in the city’s strategic plan and recommended short‑term outreach steps; councilors suggested placing clear “recycle” guidance under the city’s trash/refuse web pages and considering volunteer-run drop‑offs in partnership with vendors.
