When recycling makes sense

Long-time readers of Machine Design may recall an editorial I wrote a few years back about the economics of recycling.

http://community.machinedesign.com/forums/thread/1458.aspx

The last line from that editorial stands out: "....curbside recycling might make sense someday. You'll know that day has come when someone knocks on your door and offers to pay you for your paper and plastic."

That day may be getting closer if the Smart Trash idea gets traction:

http://www.physorg.com/news172418366.html

The thing to note, though, is the economics of the effort are nowhere discussed. Getting paid for your old Pop Tart boxes is a great idea, but not if a ten-cent payment to you results in a one-dollar increase in your taxes or diminishes your buying power by a dollar through larger federal deficits.