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School Supply Reuse Project

Now through the end of October, Washington County is collecting new and gently used school, art and office supplies to be donated to teachers and students. Gather your unwanted supplies and put them to good use.

Visit the School Supply Reuse Project webpage for a list of accepted items and donation drop-off options. Thank you!

All about metal recycling

Recycling metal reduces the need for mining and uses less energy than making new metal from ore. Metals can often be recycled over and over. Aluminum, copper and lithium are popular metals to recycle, and these materials are valuable to recyclers. You can put the following metal items in the mixed recycling bin:

Steel and aluminum cans: Rinse empty cans. Place lids inside the can and squeeze them shut. This prevents lids from getting stuck in the machines.
Small metal items: Put bottle caps, nails, and other metal items (two inches or smaller) in a metal can and squeeze it shut.
Empty aerosol cans: Remove the cap, make sure the can has no more pressure or contents, keep the nozzle on, and do not flatten or puncture the can. (Take full or pressurized cans to a Metro hazardous waste facility or collection event for proper disposal.)
Scrap metal: Items that are mostly metal, like pots, pans or the head of a shovel, can be put in your recycling bin. Remove non-metal parts as best you can.

Find a unique and affordable Halloween

costume by thinking reuse first

Start your search early and explore ideas using keywords like 'reuse,' 'recyclables,' or 'repurpose' on the internet.
Consider thrift shops, swapping with friends, or joining your neighborhood's Buy Nothing group.
Get creative with items you already have. Remember to check the recycling bin for toilet paper rolls, cardboard boxes and other items that could be turned into a costume.
Look for quality pieces and remember to consider accessories to complete the overall look.

It’s almost leaf season

Request an extra yard debris bin from your garbage and recycling collection company.
Drop off leaves at a Clean Water Services leaf collection event.
Use the leaves as natural compost or mulch.
Use the Garbage and Recycling Day tool to find events and drop-off options.

Tips to reduce food waste during your next party

Plan your shopping list and adjust recipes for the number of guests.
Get creative with leftovers and freeze any extra food.
Compost food scraps at home to provide nutrient-rich soil for your garden.

Visit EatSmartWasteLess.com for more tips to prevent food waste.

Use the Garbage and Recycling Day tool

View or print a collection calendar.
Sign up for collection reminders and schedule change alerts.
Find special events and drop-off options.
Download the app on your phone.

Use the Garbage and Recycling Day tool

What to do with things you do not need

Candy wrappers

These are usually made of plastic film that cannot be recycled. You should throw them in the trash, but you can also use them for craft projects.

Cooking oil and grease

Pour grease into cans, let it harden, and throw the can into the trash.

Pumpkins

Roast the seeds of jack-o-lanterns. If you paint your pumpkins instead, you can make a pie or soup in November. Put them in your home compost bin or yard debris cart.

Events calendar

Check out our calendar for upcoming events:

Repair workshops
Recycle+ special collections
Community events

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