Dive Brief:

• City data shows recycling rates in Minneapolis, Minnesota have grown since single-stream recycling was introduced a little over one year ago. 
• In the winter of 2013, 12 recycling employees were injured while on the job. This winter, one injury has been reported so far. 

Dive Insight:

The use of a new collection system is a factor in the reduction of injuries sustained while working. The use of a mechanized arm on the recycling truck has helped cut down on injuries, slips and strains that were more common before, when workers had to carry bags from the curb to load into the truck. Minneapolis has saved over $250,000 on workers compensation since single-stream was implemented. 

There are still more safety improvements that need to be made. Workers still need to be careful when loading recyclables, as dangerous debris is sometimes propelled out of the compactor. Improving safety during extreme cold and while walking in heavy amounts of snow could be improved also.  

Minnesota has been working to increase its sustainability, and is considering a bottle deposit program as one way to improve recycling from its current rate of 45 percent to 80 percent.