Hey Besties,

We wanted to take this opportunity to spread some valuable information on how to properly dispose of waste. We know this stuff gets tricky, especially with different locations having different laws and regulations, but we wanted to make it as simple as possible. That is why we included a simple print out with directions you can post on your fridge!

Download HERE

Recycling:

What you CAN recycle:

Glass, metal & cans, plastics 1-7, cardboard & cartons, paper and newspaper

*ALL materials going into the recycling bin must be clean. AKA wash off any food residue or dirt from plastic food containers, jars, cans, etc. before throwing them in the bin. IF you cannot fully clean the item of waste throw it in the trash. A dirty item can result in the entire recycling bin going to the landfill. *

What you CAN'T recycle:

• Film plastic like plastic wrap, bags, bubble wraps, etc.

• Paper towels, tissues, toilet paper etc.

• Waxed boxes, dirty paper/to-go boxes

• Broken Glass - Must go in trash

• Styrofoam (depends on local laws)

How do I know what type of plastic it is?

The type of plastic is printed normally at the bottom of the container/bottle

Composting:

What to Compost:

• Yard waste; lawn clippings, leaves, weeds, etc.

• Tree branches and shrubs

• Wood & sawdust

• Fruit scrapes

• Vegetable scapes

• Tea bags 

• Paper Towels, napkins, shredded paper/newspaper, 

What NOT to Compost:

• Meats, oils, bones, and grease

• Fish waste

• Dairy

• Animal feces

• Saw dust 

• Coal & Charcoal

• Plastics, metal, or trash 

What if I don't have a yard to compost?

If your home or complex has a green waste bin you can throw your compost in there! If you are in an apartment or living situation where you cant have your own yard compost bin you can use a small bin to throw all your compostable materials and then dump them in the facilities green can! Be sure to use a bin with a lid (it will draw flies) you can purchase indoor compost containers online as well!

 

How do I set up a compost bin in my yard?

1st: Purchase a compost bin or make your own with wire mesh and wood!

2nd: Select a sunny well drained area 

3rd: Prepare the area; loosen the soil under the area you will be placing the bin and put down a thick layer of dry leaves/shredded paper

4th: Start dumping your waste 

You can specially layer your compost bin but as most people use for dumping materials every few days the layering doesn't work for everyone. 

5th: Add soil on top 

6th: Throw your waste in, let it sit, and start turning it so it can turn into fertilizer

I have a yard compost bin, what now?

Once your bin is setup you can throw all your compostable waste into it to turn into fertilizer!

It can take a long time for all the materials to break down so for best practice stir the contents every 10-14 days and add soil on top each time. After 3-4 turns the compost should be ready. Allow the compost to mature for a few months before using. You can then spread the fertilizer out in your yard, use it for gardening, or share with neighbors and friends.

Trash:

What goes in the trash?

• Non-compostable food; meats, oils, dairy, eggs, pizza, pasta, old salad with dressing etc.

• Bio Waste; nails, hair, skin, dirty bandages, diapers, fem hygiene, etc.

• Plastic bags, wrappers, & styrofoam (depends)

• Broken glass, ceramic dishware and pots

• Cleaning waste; floor sweepings, dirty paper towels, etc.

• Dirty recyclable materials (ie dirty food containers, soiled paper, etc.)

• Textiles; clothing, shoes, sheets, towels,ribbons, etc.

ONLY if not able to donate, or repurpose!!!

How to dispose of electronics?

• Sell or donate old/unused electronics

• Trade in; Apple, Best Buy, many other online sites

If broken or damaged

• Take it to a recycler there are many options but an easy one is Best Buy, cellphone providers, local dumps, etc.