Is the Sky the Limit?

The California Integrated Waste Management Board recently announced that the state has achieved an "unprecedented" landfill diversion rate of 58 percent. In all, the state diverts 54 million tons of trash each year for reuse and recycling, according to the board.

From the board's press release:

"The environmental impacts of recycling are astounding. Each year recycling saves enough energy to power 1.4 million California homes, and reduces water pollution by 27,047 tons. Recycling also saves 14 million trees and helps to reduce air pollution by 165,142 tons. All of these efforts are working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an amount equal to taking 3.8 million passenger cars off the highway."

What do you think is a realistic diversion rate for your community?