Here's Why You Shouldn't Put Garden Plastics Into Recycle Bin

WAUKESHA, WI — With garden and landscape season at its peak, Waukesha County is reminding residents to avoid placing used plastic growing pots, plant trays, and plant containers into the trash - and curbside recycling bins.

They are invited to drop these landscaping items off at local garden centers for recycling.

“The curbside recycling program is unable to accept plastic plant containers as these materials are contaminated with dirt and debris,” said Rebecca Mattano, Recycling & Solid Waste Supervisor for Waukesha County in a statement. “Taking the extra effort to properly recycle these materials at local businesses keeps plastics out of landfills and saves more than 60 percent of the energy it takes to make brand new products.”

Many local garden centers offer recycling programs to provide a sustainable option for customers to close the recycling loop, and make a difference.

• List of local businesses with landscape recycling programs
• Acceptable Curbside Recycling Guide: www.waukeshacounty.gov/recycling
• Waukesha County Recycles Mobile App

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