The article “Council defaults to dual sort recycling” (Sept. 20) revealed serious misunderstandings by Auburn officials of single-stream recycling.

Though dual-stream programs were popular 20 years ago, there are reasons why most of those programs across the country have since been converted to single-stream.

The article stated, “The problem with a single-stream program is that it renders most of the commodities recycled practically worthless.” That is factually incorrect.

Ecomaine, a nonprofit organization with Maine’s only single-stream equipment, is successful every day in separating mixed recyclables into marketable categories of baled material. This past year, revenue from the sale of those recyclables was nearly $4 million.

The statement, “Broken glass from bottles gets mixed in with paper and cardboard, and that reduces their value,” is not the case at ecomaine. We have never had a problem separating glass from paper or cardboard.

The article also stated, “Auburn wouldn’t see any revenue from a single-stream program.” Ecomaine offers revenue-sharing opportunities and we’re currently paying communities $35 per ton for single-stream recyclables. Ecomaine has been offering single-stream for nearly five years to our 40 member communities. All of our recyclables have been sold at the most competitive prices.

We hope city officials will reconsider single-stream recycling. It has proven to reduce costs and increase recycling rates by making it easier for residents, apartments and businesses to participate.

Kevin Roche, Portland

General manager of ecomaine