(June 13, 2008) — In the Plastics News story “Bottled-water executive calls for a nationwide bottle bill” (May 26, Page 9), Breck Speed hits this problem head on.
The lack of recycling is a worldwide problem — not just one for the United States, but everyone! We should support Speed's efforts and push the higher 10 cent redemption fee — not just for water and sports drink bottles — but every beverage bottle!
I have been in the plastics industry for 20 years, so I know we have the technology. We just need the desire to move on it. The lazy or ignorant people that don't care to recycle could be persuaded when the redemption fees are higher.
I used to live in a condo development many years ago that had trash and recycling bins located in the same garaged outhouse. It would upset me to see other condo owners simply dump all their commingled trash and recyclables into the dumpster without a thought of recycling. Furthermore, these higher deposits would certainly clean up litter.
The industry should support people like Breck Speed and his concern to push forward by contacting some of the obstacles like Coke and Pepsi.
Next time I need to buy bottled water, I know what I'll be looking for on the store shelves.
Mark Mulone
Conair Group Inc.
Cranberry Township, Pa.
