The Aluminum Association Applauds Signing of Maryland Recycling Bill

ARLINGTON, Va., May 3, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Yesterday, Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley signed into law a measure that will increase access to recycling in multifamily dwellings.

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Under Maryland law, an apartment building or condominium containing more than ten dwellings is required to have recycling available to residents.

"Recycling is the easiest way for everyone to 'go green' in their daily lives and we applaud those involved in the passage of this law," said Heidi Brock, president of the Aluminum Association.  "Access to recycling in multifamily units has been a regular challenge for recycling experts; this law will certainly increase the recycling rate and the long-term sustainability of Maryland."

The measure was introduced in the House of Delegates by Delegate Stephen W. Lafferty; the Senate companion bill (S 308) was introduced by state Senator Paul G. Pinsky.

Recycling is a vital meaning of saving energy and greenhouse gas emissions.  Aluminum recycling saves 95 percent of the energy and 95 percent of the greenhouse gases associated with primary production.

Increasing recycling access to individuals living in multifamily units directly impacts the recycling rate.  In 2010, 58.1 percent of aluminum cans were recycled, the highest recycling rate of any beverage packaging. 

"The aluminum industry has committed itself to reaching a 75 percent aluminum can recycling rate by 2015," remarked Brock.  "State-based legislative initiatives are one way of achieving this rate but the most direct way is for everyone to do their part and recycle."

The recycling of one aluminum can saves enough energy to power a 36-inch LCD TV for three hours.

The Aluminum Association, based in Arlington, Virginia, works globally to aggressively promote aluminum as the most sustainable and recyclable automotive, packaging and construction material in today's market. The Association represents U.S. and foreign-based primary producers of aluminum, aluminum recyclers and producers of fabricated products, as well as industry suppliers. Member companies operate more than 200 plants in the United States, with many conducting business worldwide.   

James Lewis
703.358.2966
[email protected]

SOURCE The Aluminum Association