The program, called "Philadelphia Recycling Rewards," was kicked off in Strawberry Mansion, and will be rolled out through the rest of the city in 2010.
Residents who sign up to be a part of the program will earn points by putting out their recycling.
Those points can be redeemed through RecycleBank for discounts, gift cards, or charitable contributions.
"Recycling has become a way of life in Philadelphia, but there is more to be done. With the opportunity to get rewarded, I expect every Philadelphian to join their neighbors in recycling." said Mayor Nutter.
Nutter said the program is anticipated to bring the City's recycling diversion rate, the amount of recyclable materials that are diverted away from landfills, to record levels.
Every ton of waste diverted from landfills saves the city about $65.
City residents will be notified when Philadelphia Recycling Rewards will launch in their neighborhood. The roll-out schedule is as follows:
February 2010: North Philadelphia
March 2010: Lower Northeast, Frankford and Logan Sections
April 2010: West and Southwest Philadelphia
May 2010: Center City and South Philadelphia
June 2010: Northeast Philadelphia
July 2010: Northwest Philadelphia
For more information about Philadelphia Recycling Rewards Program, and to sign-up for a rewards account, visit www.PhillyRecyclingPAYS.com or call the Philadelphia Recycling Rewards Customer Affairs Unit at 1-888-769-7960.
