Mission Statement
The Independent Recyclers Council (IRC) advocates for free market competition for recycling and the use of independent recyclers in meeting State and local recycling goals. IRC helps local governments find ways to harness the forces of the marketplace to maximize recycling and minimize costs of recycling to cities and ratepayers.
IRC Members
IRC is comprised of recyclers, processors, consultants, waste haulers, attorneys and local government officials dedicated to maintaining recycling as an open, competitive industry.
Two factors prompted the creation of the IRC.
First, that one of the unintended consequences of AB939 was to suddenly allow the big garbage monopolies and landfill operators to preclude independent recyclers and potential entrepreneurs from working in their areas by using their extensive lobbying power to create exclusive franchises for previously open markets.
Second, that the increasing use of flow control and franchise mechanisms for recycling purposes has unnecessarily increased recycling costs, while stifling creativity and the development of new and cost-effective recycling strategies. As important, it has reduced competition for recycling services at a time by limiting input by the very industries which have the most experience in recycling - independent recyclers who have no financial stake in waste disposal facilities.
The IRC goals:
Support fee for service recycling by local ordinances
Educate local governments on how independent recyclers can help expand recycling in their communities
Alert independent recyclers and businesses to proposed ordinances and contracts in cities which try to limit competition and fee for service recycling
Encourage independent recyclers and businesses to participate in local decision-making processes
