Essential eco-info and tips from Monroe County!
| Summer is almost here, which means many residents are firing up their backyard grills, opening up their pools, and preparing for outdoor festivities. While you’re getting ready for the season, keep in mind that some commonly-used items require special handling. Propane tanks should never go in the trash or recycling bin—even when they seem empty. They can spark dangerous fires and explosions in trucks and recycling facilities. The same goes for items like lithium and rechargeable batteries and pool chemicals. Bring them to the ecopark for proper disposal to help keep Monroe County safe, clean, and beautiful all summer long. If you’re planning a cookout or party, keep in mind that disposable plates, straws, colored plastic party cups, and plastic utensils are not recyclable and should go in the trash. Better yet, skip the disposables and choose reusable serving ware to cut down on waste. Summer is full of community events and outdoor fun— and one event you won’t want to miss is the upcoming open house at Mill Seat Landfill. Hosted by WM on Thursday, June 25 from 3:00–7:00 p.m., this family-friendly event offers a behind-the-scenes look at what happens to our garbage after it leaves the curb, including a bus tour of the landfill, information fair, plus free food and beverages. This event is free and no registration is required! This is a unique opportunity to see how modern landfills operate, learn about landfill gas to energy production and environmental protection systems. See more information about all of the events Monroe County educators will be participating in below. Summer Recycling Made Easy Propane & Helium Tanks: Bring expired or used tanks of any size to the ecopark for proper recycling (no appointment required)Refill when possible. DO NOT put in curbside recycling or trash. Batteries: Rechargeable, button, and lithium-ion batteries: accepted at many retailers and at the ecopark (no appointment required) Boat, motorcycle, car, lawn mower, and power riding toy batteries: can be recycled for free at retailers like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, etc. and scrap metal facilities. E-cigarettes and vapes: accepted at the ecopark (no appointment required). DO NOT put in curbside recycling or trash. Plant pots and trays: return to Lowes, participating farmers markets, or donate if in good condition. Plastic party cups and utensils: Paper plates, napkins and paper towels: compost where accepted or trash. Recycle Curbside (once clean and empty): Aluminum foil and trays, plastic iced coffee and soda cups (lids attached, no straws), Plastic & glass bottles, Metal cans, cardboard. Reuse or Trash: NOT recyclable: Hoses, tarps, and pool covers |
| Monroe County Recycling Website |
 Seasonal Reduce & Reuse Tip: Grasscycling! Grasscycling — leaving grass clippings on the lawn after mowing — is an easy way to create a healthier yard while reducing waste. Grass clippings break down quickly and return valuable nutrients and moisture back into the soil, helping lawns stay green and healthy naturally while reducing the need for fertilizer. Grasscycling also saves time since there’s no bagging or disposal required, and it helps keep tons of yard waste out of landfills each year. To grasscycle successfully, keep mower blades sharp, mow when the grass is dry, and simply leave the short clippings on the lawn where they will decompose naturally. Upcoming ecopark Closures The ecopark will be closed on Saturday, July 4th for the holiday; and Saturday, August 8th for the Rochester Air Show. |