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Curbside Recycling In The Presence Of Alternatives

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  • TIMOTHY K. M. BEATTY
  • PETER BERCK
  • JAY P. SHIMSHACK

Abstract

We measure the extent to which curbside access affects quantity recycled. We use novel data to distinguish between new recycling and material diverted from other recycling modes. We find that the marginal impact of expanding curbside programs on total recycled quantities is small, in part because curbside programs significantly cannibalize returns from drop‐off recycling centers. Failure to account for cannibalization from other modes may substantially overestimate the benefits of curbside programs. We conclude with simple cost‐effectiveness comparisons. Results suggest that incremental expansion of curbside access may not be cost‐effective. (JEL Q53, Q58, H72)

Suggested Citation

  • Timothy K. M. Beatty & Peter Berck & Jay P. Shimshack, 2007. "Curbside Recycling In The Presence Of Alternatives," Economic Inquiry, Western Economic Association International, vol. 45(4), pages 739-755, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:ecinqu:v:45:y:2007:i:4:p:739-755
    DOI: 10.1111/j.1465-7295.2007.00055.x
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • Q53 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Air Pollution; Water Pollution; Noise; Hazardous Waste; Solid Waste; Recycling
    • Q58 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Environmental Economics: Government Policy
    • H72 - Public Economics - - State and Local Government; Intergovernmental Relations - - - State and Local Budget and Expenditures

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