It’s the beginning of a new year — time to put away the decorations and find homes for the new things we received during the holidays. Here are some tips to reuse and recycle right in 2020.
Wrap Christmas lights around cardboard tubes or a piece of cardboard box to keep them from tangling. Write on the cardboard where the lights were displayed as a reminder for next Christmas. Strand lights that don’t work or are unwanted can be recycled at the Columbus/Bartholomew Recycling Center through Jan. 18 during regular hours.
Did you know tissue paper isn’t recyclable? The fibers are too short for recycling since tissue paper is often made from recycled paper. Repurpose tissue paper by using it to protect ornaments going into storage. Recycle gift wrap that isn’t shiny, metallic or glittery at the Recycling Center through Jan. 18.
Old calendars, greeting cards and envelopes can be recycled. Cards with glitter or foil aren’t recyclable, but can be donated to the Little Red School House at the Recycling Center. Calendars with colorful photos are also appreciated for reuse at the Little Red School House.
Artificial Christmas trees are not recyclable, but cut trees can be recycled at the Yard Waste Site located adjacent to the Recycling Center. Please remove all decorations, including lights, garland and stands. Drop off your cut trees through Jan. 18.
As you put away new possessions, look through closets and cupboards for things that can be donated for reuse to a charity shop or the Reuse Center at the Bartholomew County Landfill. Housewares, books, lawn care equipment, and furniture (no mattresses or stuffed furniture) in good condition are accepted Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Corded electronics can be brought to the Recycling Center or Bartholomew County Landfill. Items primarily composed of glass, ceramic or wood, or items that have been cannibalized, will not be accepted. There is a $20 fee for televisions and monitors. A $20 fee applies for disposal of CFC-containing appliances, which should be taken to the Landfill.
Rechargeable batteries, oil-based paint, antifreeze and fluorescent light bulbs (tube and CFL) are accepted at the Recycling Center Tuesday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For a list of other household hazardous waste items accepted at the Columbus/Bartholomew Recycling Center visit bcswmd.com.
For more information about recycling and waste disposal in Bartholomew County, contact Bartholomew County Solid Waste Management District at 812-376-2614. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest for tips and information on how to “Recycle Right” in 2020.
Jessica Norcross is the education coordinator for the Bartholomew County Solid Waste Management District. Contact her by email at [email protected] or call 812-376-2614 to schedule a tour, program or presentation. Send comments to [email protected].
