From my understanding, Waste Management sorts all the recyclables at their own facility.

I could have misunderstood, though. Wouldn't be the first time.

In regards to exhibit a): Yes.  When I lived in Colorado this was exposed as a racket.  Prove to me that they separate it at the facility.  Why else would there be separate trash containers?  Have you ever been to a wildlife habitat built upon miles and miles of landfill?  That's a whole lotta taxpayer dollars to make things right.  Kinda good but kinda sad. 

b): I can't find anything about it on their website, but yes, SMDC does have a pretty nifty container recycling program.  Next time you get takeout in an enormous styrofoam container, think about how ridiculously wasteful that is.  SMDC's program is pretty cool.  San Francisco just passed a mandatory composting regulation.  Also pretty cool.

c:) FANTASTIC.  Now I can have fresh herb.. er, yeah, herbs!  In the comfort and privacy of my own home!

Hi - 2 things.  WLSSD has inaugurated a policy to make all restaurants, etc., compost.
Some of the larger cities have "single stream" recycling.  It's very slick and the stuff does get sorted at the plant.  But, regardless, WM is the evil empire.