Wrapping paper, bubble wrap and Christmas lights are just a few items that should “not” go in recycling bins this holiday season. The Kent County Department of Public Works just announced its 2018 Holiday Waste Guide. They’re hoping residents will do the right thing and stay off the “naughty list.”
“Everyone knows there’s the good list and the naughty list for Santa Claus and the same thing goes for recycling. We don’t want you on the naughty list.”
Lauren Westerman is the Resource Recovery Specialist at the Kent County Department of Public Works. They are encouraging county residents to recycle items properly. They’ve even created a 2018 Holiday Waste Guide to help, especially since during the holidays she says that waste increases drastically.
“Almost by 25 percent nationwide. So we do see a big increase in our load at the recycling center. So we’re asking everyone to be aware of what’s going in to their bins both recycling and trash bins. Make sure you’re taking time to reduce your waste, recycle and to donate old items.”
The stats are quite impressive about the high amounts of recycled items.
“By the end of 2018, we estimate we will have that we’ll have recycle 500-thousand Christmas trees worth of paper. Enough aluminum to make 74-thousand table top Menorahs and enough steel to make 53-thousand radio flyer wagons.”
Westerman says they encourage responsible recycling and are asking residents to follow a few do’s and don’ts.
“Do recycle glass bottles and cans you’re regularly using and then, do recycle your Christmas trees at official tree drop off sites and DO NOT recycle artificial Christmas trees. Those have to be donated or thrown into the trash.”
Westerman says when residents add in things on the no no list, it costs workers and residents, time and money to sort through the damaged items. And if you need locations for recycling or the holiday recycling tip list, you can go to reimaginetrash.org.
