As a nation, we’re recycling only 34% of the 250 million tons of waste we generate, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. We can certainly recycle more and recycle correctly. It all starts with putting more of the correct recyclable items in the correct place.
Bartholomew County residents can properly dispose of up to four tires (pick-up truck-size or smaller, with rims removed), up to two CFC or refrigerant-containing appliances and up to two propane tanks for free on Amnesty Day, Nov. 9. The event will be from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Columbus/Bartholomew Recycling Center located at 720 S. Mapleton St.
There are many environmental and economic benefits of recycling, including saving energy, conserving natural resources and conserving landfill space. Recycling also creates jobs. Through the simple act of recycling (and buying products made with recycled content), we can continue to build momentum for recycled materials that are used to manufacture new products, “giving our garbage another life.”
Sixty professional artists will participate in the 15th annual Déjà Vu Art and Fine Craft Show at The Commons in downtown Columbus. All items in the juried show must be made wholly or in part from scrap or repurposed materials, and show attendees learn that new beauty can be found in worn leather jackets, broken dishes, mismatched silverware, old sweaters, factory waste and hundreds of other items. The show, which runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Nov. 9 has become a premier event in southern Indiana, drawing artists from across the Midwest. Admission to the event, held in celebration of America Recycles Day, is free.
America Recycles Day is the only nationally recognized day and coast-to-coast community-driven awareness campaign dedicated to promoting and celebrating recycling in the United States. It has been held on — and in the weeks leading into — Nov. 15 since 1997.
“America Recycles Day provides a key moment in time to regain momentum for recycling in America, and to help make recycling a daily social norm across the country,” said Brenda Pulley, senior vice president of recycling for Keep America Beautiful. “Let’s get people recycling in every aspect of their lives — at home, at work and on the go!”
Bartholomew County Solid Waste Management District wants to thank county residents for their recycling efforts. On Nov. 15, the first 25 residents to “Get Caught Recycling” at the Columbus/Bartholomew Recycling Center or Bartholomew County Landfill will receive a “thank you” surprise.
For information on recycling options in Bartholomew County visit bcswmd.com.
Jessica Norcross is the education coordinator for the Bartholomew County Solid Waste Management District. Contact her by email at jnorcross@bartholomew.in.gov or call 812-376-2614 to schedule a tour, program or presentation.
