|
|
PUBLIC WORKS & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
Fairfax Recycler Newsletter
|
|
 As the golden rays of summer shine brightly and the aroma of BBQs fills the air, there’s no better time to rekindle our commitment to reducing waste. In this special summer edition of the Fairfax Recycler newsletter, we’re excited to bring you a refreshing collection of tips, updates, and resources to inspire your journey toward waste reduction all while enjoying family gatherings and outdoor fun.
As part of our ongoing efforts to connect, follow us on Facebook and X (formally Twitter) @ffxpublicworks for the latest regulatory updates and invaluable tips on effective waste management.
Let's welcome the season of renewal by embracing sustainable habits and working together towards a cleaner, greener future for Fairfax County and beyond.
 |
|
Fairfax County is updating its 20-Year Solid Waste Management Plan to better reflect the County's zero waste and sustainability goals. In August, we will seek public feedback on the proposed plan strategies. Please check the main Solid Waste website for more information: Click here or scan the QR code. |
Hey, did you know there are free composting drop-off sites?
Food Waste drop-off locations are available at Fairfax County Park Authority farmer's markets. Check out the farmers' market webpage for more locations and start turning your food scrap into rich compost to help our community thrive. Click here for more information.
|
Hey there, lawn aficionados! Are you tired of the same old routine of bagging up those grass clippings after mowing? Well, hold onto your gardening gloves because we're about to dive into the wild world of grasscycling – the coolest trend to hit lawns since, well, sliced bread!
Grasscycling is more than just a trendy lawn care practice – it's a smart and eco-conscious way to maintain your lawn without the hassle of bagging up clippings. Instead of discarding them, you leave them on your lawn, providing a natural source of nutrients and moisture. But the benefits go beyond mere convenience:
-
Environmental Benefits: By returning essential nutrients and moisture to the soil, grasscycling promotes a healthier lawn while also reducing waste. It's a win-win for your yard and the planet.
-
Cost Savings: Say goodbye to excessive watering and expensive fertilizers. Grasscycling helps you save money while still achieving a lush, vibrant lawn.
-
Time Efficiency: Forget about the tedious chore of bagging clippings. Grasscycling saves you time and energy, allowing you to spend more of your precious free time enjoying your outdoor space.
To grasscycle like a pro, follow these tips:
- Ensure your grass is dry and your mower blade is sharp to prevent clumping.
- Set your mower blade height to three inches for optimal grass health.
- Mow regularly, but avoid cutting off more than one-third of the grass blade at a time.
- Let the clippings fall where they may – nature will take care of the rest.
So there you have it, folks – grasscycling is the coolest thing to happen to lawns since the invention of the sprinkler. So why not ditch the bag and join the grasscycling revolution? Your lawn will thank you for it
|
|
|
 |
|
The Solid Waste Management Program (SWMP) is one of many organizations that offer year-round flag disposal programs. SWMP staff collect worn-out flags and ensure they are disposed of respectfully. For more information on disposal locations and educational materials about flag etiquette and proper disposal, follow this link. |
Picnics are a great way to enjoy the outdoors with friends and family, but they can also generate a significant amount of waste. Single-use plastic utensils, plates, cups, and bags are common at picnics, and can be difficult to properly recycle. Instead, consider these tips for planning a waste-free picnic:
• Bring reusable food containers, utensils, plates, and cups.
• Pack food in bulk bins or containers from home. If pre-packaged food is a must, choose items in recyclable or compostable packaging.
• Use cloth napkins and towels.
• Compost leftover food scraps.
• Don’t forget to bring a trash bag, and take the trash home for proper recycling or disposal.
By following these tips, we can have a summer of waste-free picnics that are both fun and waste-free!
|
Newington Collection Operations Facility Crew
Waste and Recycling Workers Week was June 17-21. We want to extend a heartfelt THANK YOU to all the dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to keep our communities clean and green. We received numerous creative entries from residents expressing their gratitude, and it has been truly heartwarming to see the community come together to celebrate our unsung heroes. Here are a few photos of the entries.
Submitted Anonymously: Loves to watch and wave as the waste and recycling crew stops by every week
|
|
|
Photo Submitted by Jefferson Manor Neighborhood
|
|
Photo Submitted by Jefferson Manor Neighborhood
|
|
 Photo Submitted by R.P. & J.P.
Stay calm about recycling! Search our Waste Wizard and learn how & where to dispose of everyday items instead.
Curious about what people most often search for on our Waste Wizard? Our top five items are scrap metal, furniture, mattresses, microwaves, and televisions! See for yourself what to do with these items and more. Click here
|
|
|
|
|
