As Sioux Falls grows, recycling rates drop

Megan Raposa -

Simplified: Sioux Falls residents are putting more stuff in the landfill and less stuff into the recycling bin, according to data from both the City of Sioux Falls and Millennium Recycling.

Why it matters

  • A recent report from the state Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources shared a 5.3% increase statewide in recycled materials, but that trend has failed to materialize locally.
  • Millennium Recycling President Shannon Dwire said they've seen an 18% drop in recycling over the past decade – during which the five-county area saw a 17% increase in population. So, essentially, more people are creating more waste.
    • That's led to a 40% increase in landfill waste over the same time frame.
  • The reasons for the drop are multi-faceted, Dwire noted, but one factor is the lack of business participation in recycling programs, as well as the lack of city enforcement of its recycling ordinance.
"We know a significant amount of recyclable material is still ending up in the landfill," Dwire said. "If we want to extend the life of our landfill and keep valuable resources in use, we need to get more materials into the recycling system."

Tell me more

Another challenge in increasing the recycling rate is misinformation and doubt from consumers about whether recycling makes any difference, Dwire said. But materials like glass, metal, paper, cardboard, and quality plastics are in high demand and do get recycled.

"We only accept materials that can be reused, and on average, less than 5% of what comes through our doors is actual trash that has to go to the landfill," Dwire said.

Additionally, even though the city has an ordinance requiring businesses to recycle, it falls apart at the enforcement piece. It's unclear who should be in charge of the issue – businesses, haulers, or the city itself.

Meanwhile, many usable materials are going to waste.

"If we don’t increase recycling now, we’ll face higher costs, lost resources, and a landfill that fills up years sooner than planned," Dwire said.

How can I help?

Here are a few tips:

  • Only put accepted materials in the bin. Millennium has a list of dos and don'ts here.
  • Speak up if your apartment, workplace, or a local venue doesn’t recycle. Ask why.
  • Think before you toss. Many items can be reused, donated, or recycled instead of going to the landfill.
  • Be a voice. Let your local elected officials know that recycling matters to you.