The Florida Senate

403.7032  Recycling.--

(1)  The Legislature finds that the failure or inability to economically recover material and energy resources from solid waste results in the unnecessary waste and depletion of our natural resources. As the state continues to grow, so will the potential amount of discarded material that must be treated and disposed of, necessitating the improvement of solid waste collection and disposal. Therefore, the maximum recycling and reuse of such resources are considered high-priority goals of the state.

(2)  By the year 2020, the long-term goal for the recycling efforts of state and local governmental entities, private companies and organizations, and the general public is to reduce the amount of recyclable solid waste disposed of in waste management facilities, landfills, or incineration facilities by a statewide average of at least 75 percent. However, any solid waste used for the production of renewable energy shall count toward the long-term recycling goal as set forth in this section.

(3)  The Department of Environmental Protection shall develop a comprehensive recycling program that is designed to achieve the percentage under subsection (2) and submit the program to the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives by January 1, 2010. The program may not be implemented until approved by the Legislature. The program must be developed in coordination with input from state and local entities, private businesses, and the public. Under the program, recyclable materials shall include, but are not limited to, metals, paper, glass, plastic, textile, rubber materials, and mulch. Components of the program shall include, but are not limited to:

(a)  Programs to identify environmentally preferable purchasing practices to encourage the purchase of recycled, durable, and less toxic goods.

(b)  Programs to educate students in grades K-12 in the benefits of, and proper techniques for, recycling.

(c)  Programs for statewide recognition of successful recycling efforts by schools, businesses, public groups, and private citizens.

(d)  Programs for municipalities and counties to develop and implement efficient recycling efforts to return valuable materials to productive use, conserve energy, and protect natural resources.

(e)  Programs by which the department can provide technical assistance to municipalities and counties in support of their recycling efforts.

(f)  Programs to educate and train the public in proper recycling efforts.

(g)  Evaluation of how financial assistance can best be provided to municipalities and counties in support of their recycling efforts.

(h)  Evaluation of why existing waste management and recycling programs in the state have not been better used.

History.--s. 95, ch. 2008-227.