Portland Introduces New Recycling Carts to Reduce Litter

PORTLAND, Maine - The city of Portland is replacing recycling bins with new covered carts in an effort to reduce litter.
 
The Portland Press Herald reports that residents will receive the two-wheeled carts beginning Aug. 7. City Hall Communications Director Jessica Grondin says the 25,000 containers cost about $1 million.
 
City officials say the new covered carts won't contribute to windblown litter like the uncovered bins did. According to a University of Southern Maine study, recycling bins were responsible for over a ton of litter that ended up on Portland streets.
 
Portland officials say the public response has largely been positive. However, some residents worry about finding space to store the larger containers. Tenants sharing carts has also prompted a response from some landlords.