You have probably heard of some of the recycling changes happening with the stricter standards from foreign markets. An explanation of how it can effect local recycling can also be found here. As a result, we've had to adapt our practices to clean up the stream of materials sent to be recycled. Here is more from waste reduction educator, Ellen Ives.
A note to let you know about recent recycling changes: With some global markets no longer accepting recyclables from the U.S., the allowable rate of contamination has greatly decreased, therefore reducing contamination in recyclables is vital. Please implement these changes in your schools. Let me know of any need for staff education, if you have any questions, or if there is some way I can be of assistance as you implement these changes. Thank you for your efforts and attention to this matter.
Ellen Ives
Here's how the recycling changes may effect your school.
(Milk/juice cartons)
Small cartons can be precarious for recycling systems. For some time it was recommended to have custodians bag the milk and juice cartons and put them in the recycle dumpster. We've now found that when you do this, the cartons begin to mold within 24 hours and are then not recyclable. Due to this information, we've changed guidance on this.
Revised disposal practices for cartons
Unless shredded paper is collected by a shredding service and brought directly to the recycling facility, it cannot be recycled. This is the same for curbside residential service as well. It is simply too small to properly go through our sort system and becomes like confetti at the transfer station.
Revised disposal practices for shredded paper
Consult your custodial and classroom recycle guides below for more guidance on recycling.
To reach Ellen Ives from Waste Connections with questions, email her at Ellen.Ives@wasteconnections.com or you can contact Michelle Picinich from Clark County Green Schools at michelle.picinich@clark.wa.gov.
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