SWALCO’s 35th Anniversary: A Recycling Success Story

The Solid Waste Agency of Lake County (SWALCO) has successfully diverted tons of waste from landfills by recycling a variety of items. Since its inception in 1991, SWALCO has focused on recycling electronics, batteries, paint, household chemicals, and more. The agency operates in collaboration with 43 municipalities in Lake County. Walter Willis, SWALCO’s Executive Director, attributes much of this success to creativity and education. These elements are critical as they celebrate their 35th anniversary.

At the anniversary celebration held at the Gurnee facility, guests heard from speakers and enjoyed lunch before touring the plant. Willis spoke about the agency’s cooperative efforts with waste haulers, highlighting how combining food scraps with yard waste has kept meat bones and spoiled vegetables out of landfills. He emphasized their ongoing commitment to making more materials recyclable.

SWALCO had its roots in 1986 when the concept of a solid waste management plan emerged. The Illinois General Assembly soon mandated such plans for larger municipalities and counties. Lake County led the way. Willis highlighted the importance of forming relationships with municipalities to advocate for recycling. He emphasized their motto, “Recycle first, trash last.”

Collaboration with waste haulers facilitates the collection of recyclables from single-family homes. Willis noted that efforts are being made to engage apartment owners, though commercial recycling remains more challenging. Some cities, like Highwood and Highland Park, have mandated commercial recycling. Other towns such as Deerfield, Bannockburn, and Lake Bluff have comprehensive programs. Additionally, Waukegan is testing a pilot program for commercial recycling.

Education plays a significant role in boosting recycling rates. Willis discussed a canvassing initiative in Waukegan, North Chicago, and Zion, which significantly reduced incorrect recycling practices. Before the effort, over 800 residents incorrectly used recycling bins. This number dropped to 150 after educational outreach.

For items unsuitable for recycling bins, such as batteries, paint, and clothing, these can be brought to SWALCO’s Gurnee facility. Specialized machinery removes paint from cans and crushes them for recycling. Emily Wachter, the senior communications manager, detailed the measures taken for flammable items, including a high expansion foam fire suppression system. This system quickly extinguishes fires, preventing harm to marine life.

Peter Adrian, SWALCO’s recycling coordinator, described the meticulous process for recycling items like batteries and electronics. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) supports these efforts, along with third-party vendors. Some collected items are repurposed into raw materials, while others are shredded.

Despite these efforts, about 5% of collected materials end up in landfills because they cannot be recycled. SWALCO continues to innovate and educate, ensuring a greener future for Lake County.