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Recycling Program Savings Calculator
Multifamily recycling diverts 20-40% of trash, reducing hauling fees and landfill.
Annual savings
$480
Monthly net savings
$40
Capex payback mo
37.5
How the math works
Trash savings = (monthly × diversion × participation) − service fee.
$3,200 × 25% × 55% − $400 = $440 − $400 = $40 net monthly. Payback 37.5 mo.
How to Use
- Enter monthly trash hauling.
- Enter diversion %.
- Enter recycling service monthly.
- Enter container capex.
- Enter tenant participation %.
- Read annual savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recyclable materials?
Paper: 30-40% of waste stream. Corrugated cardboard: 10-20%. Plastics (PET, HDPE): 8-15%. Glass: 5-10%. Aluminum: 2-5%. Single-stream recycling (all materials in one bin): easier participation but lower material quality. Multi-stream: higher quality + recapture but harder participation. Most multifamily: single-stream with clear signage.
Cost structure?
Recycling service: typically included or slightly higher than trash. Some cities: recycling is landlord responsibility by mandate. Container purchase: $100-500 per building. Signage/education: $200-500 one-time + annual refresh. Tenant penalties: contamination fees $50-200/event for improperly recycled loads. Penalties: can exceed savings if program poorly run.
Participation?
Strong program (education + convenience + separate bins per unit): 60-80% participation. Weak program: 20-40%. Urban/highly-educated tenant base: higher participation. Family/workforce: lower. Programs must: (1) Clear signage at dumpster area, (2) Separate bins in apartment or common area, (3) Regular education newsletters, (4) Easy access, (5) Pickup schedule.
Municipal mandates?
NYC: Local Law 31 (2017): commercial recycling required. Boston: source separation ordinance. Seattle: Zero Waste Strategy. San Francisco: mandatory recycling + composting. Portland: required. Denver: Universal Recycling Ordinance. LA: required for multifamily 5+ units. Non-compliance fines: $250-1,000/violation. Growing nationwide — assume recycling program required soon if not already.
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