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Explore our latest coverage of environmental issues, climate change and more.

Sorting Through Vermont's Universal Recycling Law

Tony Talbot / AP
A truck full of recyclables unloads at a transfer station in Montpelier. Starting July 1, recyclables will be banned from landfills.

For many, sorting trash from recyclables and compost comes down to personal preference. With the unanimous 2012 passing of Act 148, or the Universal Recycling Law, this practice is becoming mandatory. The second phase of the eight-year plan to reduce materials sent to landfills goes into effect July 1, and instates compulsory recycling statewide.

We talk to Josh Kelly, materials management section chief at Vermont's Agency of Natural Resources, and Michele Morris, business outreach director at Chittenden Solid Waste District, about Act 148 and the disposal changes you should prepare for starting July 1. We also talk to Pat Austin, president of Austins Rubbish and Roll-off Service, about how implementing this act differs regionally.

Broadcast live on Monday, June 29, 2015, at noon; rebroadcast 7 p.m.

Jane Lindholm is the host, executive producer and creator of But Why: A Podcast For Curious Kids. In addition to her work on our international kids show, she produces special projects for Vermont Public. Until March 2021, she was host and editor of the award-winning Vermont Public program Vermont Edition.
Erin was an assistant producer for Vermont Edition.
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