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Dear Beyond Recycling Readers,
As summer settles in and temperatures rise, staying cool and hydrated should be a daily priority. Whether you're heading to the park, the beach, or simply enjoying time outdoors, it's also the perfect moment to think about how we can reduce our reliance on single-use plastics. With Plastic Free July just around the corner, now is a great time to take stock of your everyday habits and explore simple swaps that can make a big difference.
One of the easiest—and most impactful ways to reduce single-use plastic is by taking a reusable water bottle wherever you go. Not only does it help you stay refreshed during hot days but it also cuts down on plastic waste from bottled water, which often ends up in landfills or as litter in our streets and waterways.
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For pet owners, collapsible silicone bowls are a convenient way to keep your furry companions hydrated on the go—no plastic bottles or disposable dishes needed.
Planning ahead is key! Toss a refillable bottle, a reusable straw, or a small insulated thermos into your bag before leaving the house. Keep an extra bottle in your car or backpack so you’re never caught off guard. Many public parks, community centers, and even local businesses now offer water refill stations—take advantage of them!
Every small action adds up. By preparing ahead and making conscious choices, we can all play a role in reducing plastic waste—not just in July, but all year long. What reusable swaps will you commit to this summer? We’d love to hear from you, email us at recycling@baltimorecity.gov!
With Gratitude,
The Office of Waste Diversion
Baltimore City Department of Public Works
Celebrate National Upcycling Day on June 24
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Before throwing something away, ask yourself: can it be turned into something new? National Upcycling Day reminds us that waste can still hold value and doesn’t always belong in the trash. Upcycling—transforming old or unwanted items into something useful or beautiful—is a creative and sustainable way to give everyday materials a second life.
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Here are some simple ways to upcycle at home:
- Turn glass jars into storage containers, vases, or lanterns
- Use worn-out t-shirts as cleaning rags or sew them into reusable produce bags
- Transform an old ladder into a bookshelf or plant stand
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Frame scraps of fabric or wallpaper for unique wall art
- Host a craft night or DIY repair session with friends
Upcycling keeps materials out of the landfill and helps you develop a more mindful approach to waste. Share your upcycled creations with us on social media—we’d love to see what you come up with! Don’t forget to tag us @dpwbaltimorecity.
Get Ready for Plastic Free July
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Plastic Free July is a global movement that empowers people to be part of the solution to plastic pollution—so we can have cleaner streets, oceans, and communities. You don’t have to go completely plastic-free to make a difference. Start small and stay consistent!
Here are a few ideas to get started:
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- Swap single-use water bottles for a reusable one
- Use bar soap and shampoo bars to reduce packaging
- Choose loose produce instead of items wrapped in plastic
- Say no to straws, or bring your own reusable straw
- Try reusable silicone food storage bags instead of plastic baggies
- Opt for powdered or refillable cleaning products
Even one change makes a difference—and over time, those changes add up. Join the Plastic Free July challenge and see how many swaps you can make!
Say No to Plastic Bags on July 3
Plastic Bag Free Day is observed each year on July 3 to raise awareness about the impact of single-use plastic bags—and encourage the shift toward sustainable alternatives.
In Baltimore City, single-use plastic bags are already banned at checkout. Still, it's a good time to review your habits and to be sure you’re always prepared:
- Keep a few foldable fabric bags in your car or backpack
- Store a reusable produce bag set in your kitchen or purse
- Bring a cooler bag for groceries that need to stay cold
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Use a basket, backpack, or even a cardboard box as a plastic-free carry option
If you end up with plastic bags from packaged items, be sure to reuse them or take them to a designated plastic film recycling drop-off site—never put them in your curbside recycling bin.
Let’s work together to keep plastic bags out of our waterways and public spaces. Every action counts!
Station North Tool Library Spring Fix-It Fair
On April 12, 2025, DPW partnered with Station North Tool Library to support the Spring Fix-It Fair—the largest Fix-It Fair Station North Tool Library has held to date. Nearly 300 residents came out to breathe new life into old belongings, learn repair skills, and take part in a growing local movement centered on reuse and sustainability.
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The event provided free repairs for household items like clothing, small furniture, bicycles, and electronics, with the help of 84 experienced volunteers. In total, 403 items were brought in, and 333 were successfully fixed—an impressive 83% repair rate that kept over 1,600 pounds of usable materials out of the waste stream.
DPW’s Office of Waste Diversion was on site sharing recycling tips, offering guidance on hard-to-dispose-of items, and launching two new on-site services aimed at further waste reduction:
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Textile Recycling: 597 lbs. collected, with reusable items routed to thrift partners and non-reusable materials processed into insulation and rags.
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Electronics Recycling: 1,800 lbs. collected, with all hazardous components safely handled and valuable materials recovered.
DPW is proud to provide financial and promotional support for events like the Fix-It Fair, which promote waste diversion and community resilience through hands-on engagement. Big thanks to Station North Tool Library and all the volunteers, fixers, and neighbors who came out to make this event such a success!
Turn Empty Glass Bottles Into Garden Helpers
As the summer heat kicks in, it’s not just you and your pets who need to stay hydrated—your plants do too! Instead of tossing that empty glass wine or sparkling water bottle into the recycling bin, give it a second life as a slow-release watering system for your garden.
- Rinse out the bottle thoroughly
- Fill it with water
- Flip it upside down and push the neck into the soil near the base of your plant
The water will gradually seep into the soil, keeping your plants hydrated over time—especially helpful for hot days or while you’re away for the weekend.
This simple trick reduces waste, reuses a common household item, and helps your garden thrive. Cheers to keeping the loop closed and your plants happy!
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Great news! Clean aluminum foil and pans are now accepted in Baltimore City’s recycling program.
To be recycled, aluminum foil and pans must be free of food residue.
Aluminum is highly recyclable and can be turned into new products again and again with minimal energy. Just make sure your foil and pans are clean before placing them in your recycling bin—any food contamination can spoil the recycling process.
Got a messy pan you can’t clean? It’s better to toss it in the trash than risk contaminating a whole load of recyclables.
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Do you have an upcoming sustainable event that you'd like to showcase? Share the details with us at recycling@baltimorecity.gov, and we'll feature it in our newsletter!
Events
Fluid Movement: Dive Into Banned Books - A Water Ballet of Resistance and Joy: Saturday & Sunday, July 26 & 27, 5:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. at Riverside Park Pool. Tickets required.
Baltimore Office of Sustainability Open House: Saturday, June 28, 12 – 4 p.m. at Carroll Park Rec Center 1802 Bayard St. 21223. Register here
Jobs
Job Opportunities with the Department of Public Works
Job Opportunities with Baltimore City Recreation and Parks
Job Opportunities with the State of Maryland
Independence Day, Friday, July 4, 2025, is a city holiday. DPW offices and sanitation yards will be CLOSED. Trash and recycling make up day: Saturday, July 5, 2025.
For all inquiries, residents should call 311.
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