RECYCLE RIGHT!

Following simple recycling rules makes program positive, ditching the rules creates a mess

executive director of Butler County’s recycling program.

When items are discarded that are not recyclable it adds significantly to the cost of recycling, and prevents recycling from being available to those who want to recycle the right way. In addition to new recycling bins, there will be new cardboard recycling units - these have slit openings and will easily accept your flattened cardboard boxes.

For those who follow the rules for recycling, these new bins will add a level of aggravation; but the change was needed to thwart those who use the bins inappropriately.

“West Chester Township is happy to make the recycling centers available to the community,” said Tim Franck, Community Services Director for West Chester. “But when the areas are used as dumping sites we all pay. Crews that could be out mowing and taking care of the parks, instead spend their day cleaning up the mess others leave behind.”

West Chester offers three public recycling centers supported by Butler County Recycling & Solid Waste and Rumpke.

Recycling bins accept the following items: aluminum and tin, glass bottles and jars, plastic bottles and jugs, No. 5 plastics (yogurt, margarine tubs), cardboard and paper.

Changes have been rolled out in the recycling drop-off areas. Rumpke replaced the “open lid” recycling units with units that have locked lids. Residents must place their recyclables into one of the round openings, and are not able to access the full recycling dumpster as before. These new bins make recycling a more “thoughtful” process and helps reduce items blowing from the bins.

“The change was made to reduce contamination and prevent nuisance items from getting into the recycling dumpster, things like couches, building materials and carpeting,” said Anne Fiehrer Flaig,

Rumpke empties the recycling bins three times per week. If they are full when you get there, come back another day.

While technically other items are recyclable, ONLY those items listed as accepted can be left behind at West Chester’s recycling centers. Anything else left there or things left outside the bins is considered illegal dumping.

West Chester Township received a $5,000 grant from Duke Energy in 2020 that will be put to use improving signage and education at the designated recycling centers and installing security cameras for added enforcement.

There are many opportunities for getting rid of items not accepted at the recycling centers. There are agencies that accept furniture, electronics, hazardous chemicals and building supplies. There are small dumpsters available for rent as well.

“Those with items to be discarded have the responsibility to discard them responsibly,” Mr. Franck said.

Recycling areas are found at Beckett Park, Keehner Park and the former Activity Center on Cox Road.

Learn more about special recycling opportunities here www.westchesteroh.org/recycling