To capture all of your recyclables, you can create a home recycling center.

Did you know that some of the world’s trash dumps are so big they can be seen from outer space? We have surely become a disposable society; opting for convenience we seldom take time to think about the after effects of our short-term actions. With little effort we can “re-habit” ourselves to support the environment.

Curbside recycling services accept all grades of paper, cardboard, milk cartons and drink boxes, plastic bottles with necks, metal cans, scrap metal to 36” and 40lbs, unbroken glass, and used motor oil stored in see-through containers.

To take advantage of this curbside service, you can start by placing a bin or bag next to your regular trashcan to remind members of your household to separate recyclables.

Be sure to rinse bottles and cans to keep odors and unwanted pests away. When your container is full, empty it into your city-supplied bin.
If you don’t have a city bin, request one or more bins from your local hauler— bins are free and part of your local service.

Once you determine how much room you will need to contain your recyclables, your center can be as simple as using paper bags and cardboard boxes, or you can visit a storage specialty shop, home center, or thrift store to find attractive racks and bins.

If you find that you have a large amount of plastic bottles and cans, you can stomp-compact them for storage room. This is a great job for kids.

Most markets offer a bin to recycle plastic bags, and New Season’s Markets also accept plastic tubs marked 2 & 5 on their bottom.

If you want to step-up your recycling efforts, the Master Recycler Program has “other” plastic round-ups every four months. T hey accept most any clean plastic without number codes, from bread-bag closures to garden furniture.

Once you start collecting these miscellaneous items, you will be amazed at what you are keeping out of the landfill. Please check their site for acceptable items, drop-off locations, and dates.

Metro rotates hazardous waste round-ups every weekend March through November. Hazardous wastes include medications, cleaning supplies, paint, batteries, pesticides, etc. Always save toxic waste in a safe place away from children and pets until you can recycle it.

Packing materials, including peanuts and block Styrofoam, can be saved and taken to any UPS mailing center.


Every effort made to recycle or reuse is a positive investment in our sustainable future.