The Solid Waste Agency of Lake County (SWALCO) has diverted tons of waste from landfills by recycling diverse materials like electronics, batteries, paint, and household chemicals since its inception in 1991. Collaborating with 43 municipalities in Lake County, SWALCO credits its success to creativity and education.
35th Anniversary Celebration
During its 35th anniversary event in Gurnee, guests listened to speeches and enjoyed a plant tour. Executive Director Walter Willis emphasized the importance of collaboration with waste haulers. A significant achievement includes integrating food scraps with yard waste for composting, reducing landfill contributions.
“We worked with a hauler to combine food scraps with yard waste,” Willis stated. “This has kept tons of food waste from landfills.”
Growth of a Solid Waste Management Plan
SWALCO is among the newer entities in solid waste management. In 1986, the Illinois General Assembly required comprehensive waste management plans from large municipalities and counties, with Lake County leading the way.
Recycling Coordinator Peter Adrian reflected on the county’s pioneering efforts and the importance of municipal relationships in advancing recycling initiatives.
“Lake County took it seriously,” Willis remarked. “Our focus is to recycle first and trash last, embracing this popular motto.”
Residential and Commercial Recycling
SWALCO achieves residential recycling by partnering with waste haulers. They are also progressing with apartment complexes, though commercial recycling proves challenging. Highwood was the first to implement commercial recycling, followed by Highland Park and several other municipalities. These areas now mandate recycling agreements for businesses.
Educational Efforts to Enhance Recycling
Education plays a crucial role in reducing landfill contributions. For instance, an effort in Waukegan, North Chicago, and Zion minimized improper use of recycling bins. Initial errors were reduced to 150 after outreach efforts.
“More than 800 customers were doing it wrong,” stated Willis, highlighting the improvement by April.
Special Handling for Non-Standard Items
Items like batteries, paint, and clothing cannot go in standard recycling bins. Senior Communications Manager Emily Wachter explains that individuals can bring such items to the Gurnee facility for safe disposal.
“We have a high expansion foam fire suppression system,” Wachter noted, ensuring safe handling of flammable items.
Recycling Coordinator Adrian emphasized specialized handling for electronics and textiles, often involving the IEPA.
“Some items are broken down into raw materials or shredded,” Adrian explained, though about 5% cannot be reused.