February 2019: DPW Recycling Newsletter

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Baltimore City Department of Public Works                     ReNews | FEBRUARY 2019

Solid Waste Master Planning

Solid Waste Master Plan

The Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) is rethinking how we manage the City's recycling and trash services. City residents and other stakeholders will have a chance to weigh in on this planning process, the "Less Waste, Better Baltimore: Recycling and Solid Waste Management Master Plan."  During this process, DPW will develop long-term policies and goals to manage how the City disposes of its waste. A report is expected to be completed by the end of 2019. 

DPW is currently in the information gathering phase of creating the Solid Waste Master Plan. This phase of the project includes collecting feedback from stakeholders on how to better manage waste in Baltimore. We'd like to hear from you about your current waste management and recycling habits, level of satisfaction with existing programs, and get some ideas about what you would like to see in the future. Please share your thoughts by filling out the online survey today.

Take the Survey!

 Visit the Less Waste, Better Baltimore webpage


Contain Your Recycling on Windy Days

With some particularly strong winds this winter, let's be sure to keep our recycling contained and our streets clean! It is tempting to contain recyclables in plastic bags, but these are not acceptable collection containers. Here are some tips to keep your recycling from blowing away: 

  • Use a recycling bin with a lid. The bright yellow City bins with lids can be purchased at  five retailers  (see article below). However, bins are not required to recycle. Storage totes or old trash cans with lids can be used as recycling bins, as long as they are labeled "recycling." 
  • Put loose papers and plastic bottles at the bottom of your bin, layering heavier items such as magazines, books, and glass bottles and jars on top. This will prevent lighter items from blowing away.
  • If items are spilling out of your container, use a paper bag or cardboard box to hold extra items. Recyclables are less likely to blow away if they are beneath the rim of your container. 
  • Wait until your container is more than half full before placing it out for collection.
  • Take recycling out the morning of your collection instead of the night before, if possible. Just be sure to have it out by 6 a.m.! 
  • If using a paper bag for your recycling collection, roll down the top and staple it shut to prevent recyclables from blowing out. 

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Are you in need of a recycling bin with a lid? Our 25-gallon bins are available with a lid for $15. These can be purchased at the following locations:

  • DPW's Kane Street Yard, 111 Kane St. (across from Patterson High School)
  • Canton Ace Hardware
  • Federal Hill Ace Hardware
  • Waverly Ace Hardware
  • Falkenhan’s Hardware

More information on recycling bins here

Want to transform a storage tote or old trash can into a recycling bin? Get a free recycling label. Call the DPW Recycling at (410) 396-4511 to request a free sticker. 

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Sustainable Valentine's Day

Show love to your valentine and to the planet with sustainable Valentine’s Day gifts! Follow these simple guidelines to reduce your waste this holiday without skimping on sentiment:

  • Cards without glitter or noisemakers can be recycled, and gift wrap that scrunches (no metallics) can also be recycled. Tissue paper and bows should be trashed. 
  • Gift experiences such as concert tickets or a homemade meal instead of valentine - themed items that will be tossed later.
  • Don't limit your love to only one week! Gift a potted flower or plant that will not wilt immediately like cut flowers.
  • Enjoying a nice bottle of wine for the holiday? Recycle the glass bottle in your curbside container and take the cork to a retailer that recycles them, such as MOM's

 

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Superbowl Winning: Reduce, Recycle, Reuse

No matter which team you root for, everyone wins when we reduce our waste! It is easy and cost effective to reduce, reuse, and recycle at your superbowl party.

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  • Set out recycling containers for cans, bottles, and cups
  • Reuse decorations or skip them completely! The focus will be on the food and the game, most guests won't miss the decor!
  • Utilize reusable servings trays for snacks
  • Skip disposables and use reusable cups, plates, and silverware
  • Remind guests to put napkins and soiled recyclables in the trash

Holiday Reminder: Presidents Day

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Please note that Presidents Day on Monday, Feb. 18 is an observed City Holiday. Offices and Citizen Convenience Centers will be closed. Mechanical street sweeping will NOT take place, and street sweeping parking restrictions will NOT be in effect. Routine services and bulk collections are not scheduled for this day. 

 


FAQ: Are Pizza Boxes Recyclable?

Yes, clean pizza boxes can be recycled. Some grease is okay, but if they are too soiled they should go in the trash. Oftentimes, the top is able to be ripped off and recycled when the bottom is trashed. 

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Recycle Coach: Never Miss Your Recycling Day

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With Recycle Coach recycling in Baltimore City is even easier! This free app is available to help take the guesswork out of trash and recycling collection days. 

With Recycle Coach, residents can:

  • Stay organized with custom curbside collection and events calendars
  • Receive weekly reminders for recycling and trash collections
  • Make smarter decisions about recycling

Learn How to Use the RecycleCoach Application 


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