WFHB Bloomington Community Radio
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The looming trade war between China and the United States is causing problems in the international recycling market.
In Bloomington and Monroe County, uncertainty over global trade tariffs have caused government entities to consider charging residents for recycling for the first time.
In response to the Trump administration’s proposed tariffs, which are set to take effect in early July, China is set to impose its own tariffs, many of which would hurt the recycling and scrap metal market. China is a net-importer of recyclable raw materials from the United States. If the proposed tariffs are put in place, demand for recyclables would fall across the U.S
City of Bloomington Public Works Director Adam Wason says that’s lead the city and county to consider charging residents for recycling.
Regardless of whether or not the price for recycled goods stabilizes, Wason says the city will continue to offer recycling, although they’re not quite sure what it could look like. Last week, the Monroe County Solid Waste District announced it will no longer accept plastic bags for recycling. The Solid Waste District says they will still accept other kinds of recyclable plastics.
