---
title: "ARF: Reducing Contamination in Curbside Recycling Programs"
description: A new report developed by SWANA's Applied Research Foundation addresses contamination in curbside programs its effect on costs and safety at MRFs.
---

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# New ARF Report: Reducing Contamination in Curbside Recycling Programs

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A new report developed by the [Solid Waste Association of North America’s](https://swana.org/) (SWANA) [Applied Research Foundation](https://swana.org/resources/research) (ARF) addresses increased contamination in curbside programs, and its effect on costs and safety at material recovery facilities (MRFs).

The ARF report, *Reducing Contamination in Curbside Recycling Programs*, addresses key reasons why residents place contaminants in their recycling bins. A better understanding of what causes these behaviors should enable recycling and sustainability program managers to develop and implement more effective anti-contamination programs.

The report is available free to ARF [Sustainable Materials Management Group](https://swana.org/resources/research/arf-subscribing-partners#SMMG) subscribers. The report will be available for purchase to SWANA members and the general public in March, 2022.

The Executive Summary to this report can be accessed by filling out the Contact Form.

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