Recycling saves natural resources and reduces pollution, though its actual impact on the environment is eclipsed by its significant positive influence on public opinion and behavior. Recycling has become a habit for most Californians and, as a result of this tangible success, serves as an important catalyst for broader environmental protection initiatives. Five years of innovative public/private partnerships, grassroots campaigns and media relations have helped the California Department of Conservation program achieve its 80 percent recycling rate and collect over 100 billion beverage containers.
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