Why is theft of recyclables a problem?

Unfortunately, some people think it’s okay to steal recyclables from blue carts or commercial recycling bins at businesses. Normally the thieves target aluminum and other higher value materials, but may take glass and other items as well. Recycling thieves often leave a mess because they aren’t accountable to anyone.

So, recyclables are being stolen, but you may say “Why should I care?” The answer is this: over time, the value of stolen materials adds up. This represents a loss of revenue for NRWS, which in time could lead to an increase in the collection rates we all pay. For City ratepayers, losing all the revenue from the sale of recyclables would result in an immediate 10-20% rate increase.