Throughout the nation, by and large, city garbage problems can be classified as well structured because of the small number of decision makers and policy options. Recycling is becoming more costly because of greater supplies and falling raw materials prices, and this will affect sanitation policy results. With political commitments to recycle at least 50% of garbage, US cities and counties have moved aggressively and cost-effectively and now recycle on average only about 40%. The annual costs per household for moving from 40 to 50% ,have been calculated and well known In Montgomery County, Maryland, which recycles 38% of its garbage, this cost would be $64.66 per year (Day 1997). But the question is whether it is appropriate to charge residents more to reach 50% or, alternatively, to use the money for schools, public safety, recreation, and other recurrent expenditure needs?
The municipal garbage problem might be seen in terms of one or more of the following