![[logo] US EPA](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20081110233155im_/http://www.epa.gov/epafiles/images/logo_epaseal.gif){kind=logo}
The Resource Conservation Challenge (RCC) is a national effort to conserve natural resources and energy by managing materials more efficiently. The goals of the RCC are to:
- Prevent pollution and promote reuse and recycling;
- Reduce priority and toxic chemicals in products and waste; and
- Conserve energy and materials.
EPA identified four national priorities or focus areas for the RCC:
What's Happening
Many businesses and organizations are leading significant efforts for the RCC! Check out the Resource Conservation Challenge Update (28 pp, 3.4MB, about PDF) for more information and to get ideas for how you may get involved.
Cherry Hill Showing the Way on Recycle Day
This Nov. 15 marks the 11th annual America Recycles Day, an opportunity for cities and citizens to re-commit to improving recycling rates and protecting the environment. Cherry Hill, NJ, stands out among communities that are “greening” themselves, and can be a model for others looking to do the same. n 2006, Mayor Bernie Platt began looking at recycling as a way to save money for Cherry Hill. The cost of disposing of trash at landfills and incinerators was rising steeply, and township officials estimated that by using RecycleBank , a program that gives residents financial rewards, based on the amount they recycle, Cherry Hill could save $2 million in disposal fees over five years. More...
- Municipal Solid Waste
EPA has issued a nationwide challenge for consumers, businesses, organizations, and industries to recycle 35% of America's municipal solid waste—commonly known as trash or garbage. Waste is a part of everyone's daily life, from office paper to product packaging. By managing materials and making smart decisions, we can all make an impact. Learn about EPA programs such as Greenscapes, Recycle on the Go, and WasteWise.
- Green Initiatives-Electronics
The quantity of computers, televisions, and other electronic products that we purchase, use, and discard is steadily increasing. EPA is collaborating through national partnerships to address the full life cycle of electronics products, including design, operation, reuse, recycling, and disposal. Do your part by recycling televisions, computers, cell phones, and other electronics through EPA programs such as Plug-In to eCycling.
- Industrial Materials Recycling
Management and recycling of industrial products and materials are key priority areas. While typically not seen by the general public or part of most of our daily lives, these wastes are often generated in large volumes. Learn about EPA initiatives, such as the Coal Combustion Partnership Program, and the recycling and beneficial use of industrial byproducts generated during manufacturing processes.
- Priority and Toxic Chemicals Reduction
While comparatively low in volume, priority and toxic chemicals present potentially hazardous waste. Learn about ways to reduce the amount of hazardous chemicals in products and waste, and make smart upfront decisions with recycling in mind. EPA is working to eliminate or reduce priority chemicals in commercial products, waste streams, and industrial releases through programs like the National Partnership for Environmental Priorities and the Schools Chemical Cleanout Campaign.
The RCC consists of numerous partnerships and collaborations with federal, state, local, and tribal governments; industry organizations; businesses and corporations; and individual citizens. It is through these partnerships that you can get involved and make a difference.