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4. Recycling Background: The Energy, Climate Change and Economic Security Act of 2008 ("Act") established a statewide weight -based recycling goal of 75% by 2020. The Act directed the Florida Department of Environmental Protec- tion (DEP) to establish a reporting protocol and directed counties to report annually. The Legislature also estab- lished interim recycling goals: 40% by 2012, 50% by 2014, 60% by 2016 and 70% by 2018. The legislation also provided that large counties (counties over 100,000 in population) not achieving the recycling goals could be di- rected to develop a plan to expand recycling programs. Recently, DEP issued a 2018 report where it acknowledged that while the recycling goal is "aspirational" the cur- rent approach needs significant changes or else Florida's recycling rate will likely fall short of the 2020 goal of 75%. This is because there have been many challenges that inhibit the State of Florida from being able to obtain and sustain the 75% recycling goal including, but not limited to, collection methods, shifts in recycling markets, and new and lighter weight packaging. It is important to note that there has actually been a decrease in Florida's recycling rate from 56% in 2016 to 52% in 2017. In addition to the declining recycling rate, there is a significant new challenge that concerns a decline in the global demand for recycled materials. In January of 2018, China re- stricted its receipt of recycling materials. The referenced restrictions make it no longer financially viable to send recyclable goods to China from the United States. Industry stake holders and scientists are currently discussing ideas for a new program that could lead to improv- ing Florida's recycling efforts at the state and local level. One of the top suggestions is to shift the focus from weight to energy -efficiency. Position: Indian River County BCC SUPPORTS the modification of the State of Florida's existing 2020 75% recycling goal in Section 403.7032, Florida Statutes, to reflect a statewide goal that is based on energy efficiency rather than weight; and OPPOSES any fines or consequences associated with contamination or not meeting the recycling goal. 8 134