AUGUSTA (AP) — Maine state officials say recycling laws are helping to keep the environment clean.

The Department of Environmental Protection says it presented data Thursday showing millions of pounds of toxic materials in electronics have been kept from entering landfills and other facilities.

The DEP said laws enacted in 2008 led to the reduction in waste by creating better access to recycling. The laws also required manufacturers to help fund and manage five new programs.

DEP officials said another program to collect old house paint was established last year and could go into effect this year.

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