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President's
Message |
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By Steve
Bale, BIRP President
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here to return to the President's Message Archive.)
 President's Column
BY: Steve Bale, President
Business Industry Recycling Program
BIRP continues to be recognized by legislators and
regulators alike as the industry representative dealing
with litter and recycling. Our office receives calls
weekly from some area of the state wanting information
or asking for help in recycling.
BIRP has purchased recycling bins and provided them to
several areas around the state as part of a program to
promote recycling. This is particularly valuable in
our view because it involves young Kentuckians and is
part of an educational effort to plant the idea of
recycling in their minds.
Our Board will be working on a policy governing these
purchases as we are anticipating that this
program will grow. There are currently 271 high schools
in the state and at any one time, many will be planning
to get involved in the recycling effort.
Additionally, we will be working with the American
Beverage Associaiton as they cooperatively work with the
National Recycling Coalition to promote recycling. The
GREEN attitude is growing in the United States and our
industry is part of that leadership.
Our role as an "umbrella" organization is vital as we
will continue to involve various types of industry in
our efforts. This effort will serve us well as
local and state political officials continue to deal
with this emerging raw materials. We were active this
last session of the General Assembly in working on HB
233 which changed labeling on multi layered plastic
bottles to make them more recyclable. In terms of the
global economy, the price on used PET plastic has risen
to 25 cents per pound. Aluminum is at an all time high.
This new market also provides an opportunity for
individuals and businesses to participate in recycling
so that it comes close to an economic value.
We will also be working with the KBA to survey our
industry groups to determine what their "in-house"
recycling involves. We believe this will provide us
with valuable information which will be useful in coming
months. Be a part of BIRP...let's promote RECYCLING.
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