As of January 1, 2016, all commercial properties in the seven-county metro must have recycling services along with garbage collection. This new law (
Minn. Stat. 115A.151) applies to businesses that have service for four cubic yards or more of trash per week. The requirements states at least three materials types be recycled.
Value of Recycling
Recyclable materials have a significant environmental and economic value. Recycling directly and indirectly supports nearly 37,000 jobs, and the materials have a value of over $250 million. In Minnesota there is a 17 percent state tax on garbage, meaning trashing recyclables can be expensive. Many businesses find recycling good for business, as customers increasingly support companies committed to sustainable practices in their operations.