Moving recycling efforts to the next level
IN THE CITY
by Dana H. Fowler
Athletes in a number of sports often use the phrase “moving to the next level” referring to improving their performance to such a degree that it propels them up to a more difficult level of competition. Recycling may not be a competitive sport, but we hope that after reading this column that you will be able to move to the next level.
First, the basics are these. If you are not recycling, please contact us at 764-2512 and we will be happy to answer your questions about how and what to recycle. We have brochures on both drop-off recycling and curbside recycling and we will make sure you receive a copy, if you would like one. We also offer blue bags free of charge for those who would like to recycle at curbside. The general rule is that if the material is clean, whether it be paper, plastic, or a can, it can be included with your recyclables.
Now for all you hardcore recyclers, this is how you can take your game to the next level using a technique called precycling. Precycling refers to the process of selecting those containers that are recyclable when you purchase an item. Precycling almost always occurs at the grocery store and usually applies to plastic containers. For example, if you are buying ketchup, you will notice that ketchup is packaged in at least two different types of plastic, typically #1 and #7.
You, as a knowledgeable recycler, would know that plastics PET #1 and HDPE #2 are recyclable and that plastics numbered #3, #4, #5, #6, and #7 are not recyclable. You would also know that the plastic code number is located inside the triangle on the bottom of the plastic container. Assuming that brand and price are not factors in your decision of what to buy, you would select the ketchup that is in the PET #1 container because it is recyclable. Precycling is simply purchasing products in containers that you know will be recyclable once they are empty.
Here is a second technique for improving your recycling efforts using precycling. Whenever possible, purchase HDPE #2 containers that have necks. Just like our necks are smaller than our heads and shoulders, a neck is simply a narrowing of the container. Why should you buy HDPE #2 containers with necks? They are recyclable while those #2 containers without necks (known as wide mouths) are not.
I hesitate to even bring up the topic of wide mouths versus necks because it generally creates confusion for the average recycler who thinks that all HDPE #2 containers are recyclable. HDPE #2 wide mouth containers are made totally different from HDPE #2 necked containers. The two plastics have different melting points, which wreaks havoc for plastic recyclers, if the two types of containers are mixed together. If you have a choice, buy HDPE #2 containers that have necks. Don’t waste your time rinsing out wide mouthed butter and yogurt containers because they are considered trash.
Finally, I would like to put a plug in for reusable shopping bags. The reusable cloth shopping bags are great as long as you use them. If you end up with plastic bags, return them to those stores that have collection containers for plastic shopping bags. I bring this up because plastic bags account for the majority of the windblown litter at landfills, which has to be picked up by hand. Every time you use a cloth bag or recycle your plastic shopping bags, you are saving the taxpayer money. Thank you for recycling and be sure to contact us if you have any questions.
Dana H. Fowler, P.E. is the solid waste director for the city of Presque Isle. He can be contacted at 764-2512 or dfowler@presqueisleme.us.
