The recycling component of Cranberry Township’s Collection Connection solid waste collection program, created in 2004, has received a shot of adrenalin. The program, which had been formulated to accomplish a series of initial goals, has been highly successful. However a renewed emphasis on recycling was needed in order to further reduce environmental impact and, eventually, to lower hauler contract pricing, Community Projects Administrator Chelsea Puff explained at the Board of Supervisors May 26 meeting.
The Township’s renewed focus on recycling included updating identity materials for the program, an increased emphasis on education, and a detailed performance tracking system. Elements of the program included a recycling cart upgrade incentive, a series of humorous print ads, a permanent display area in the Municipal Center, promotional banners in Township parks, new child-friendly mascots, new website material, a new party waste container loan program, and an online survey.
Response to the promotion has been favorable, according to Puff with approximately 400 customers taking advantage of the upgrade program. More significant, perhaps, has been the increased recycling tonnage which has reached historic highs most months since the renewed promotion was launched.