Christopher Hailstone has extensive experience with energy management, renewable energy, and electricity delivery. He is also our Utilities expert and provides valuable insights on grid reliability and security. Today, he shares his expertise on recycling and waste management, providing critical information for responsible disposal of various household items, particularly during the spring cleaning season.
Can you tell us a bit about the Stark-Tuscarawas-Wayne Recycling Center and its mission?
The Stark-Tuscarawas-Wayne Recycling Center is dedicated to helping residents responsibly dispose of household items. Our mission is to promote recycling, reduce waste, and educate the community on proper disposal practices to protect the environment.
What are the most common questions you receive during spring cleaning season? Why do people struggle with disposing of items like tires, TVs, appliances, and chemicals?
The most common questions typically revolve around how to dispose of tires, TVs, appliances, and hazardous materials. People struggle with these items because they can’t just throw them in the regular trash or recycling bins; they require special handling and disposal procedures.
Can old TVs, regardless of their condition, be recycled at your center? Are there any special instructions people need to follow when recycling old TVs?
Yes, old TVs can be recycled at our center no matter their condition. There aren’t any special instructions, but we do encourage residents to check in with us if they have any specific concerns or need guidance.
Tires are difficult to recycle. What are the steps people should take to recycle them responsibly? Are there specific locations or facilities where tires should be sent? Are there limitations on the number of tires a person can recycle per year?
To recycle tires responsibly, people should take them to specialized facilities like the Wayne County Health Department, which accepts passenger and light truck tires by appointment. Typically, there’s a limit of 10 tires per person per year. Local tire shops and scrapyards may also accept them.
How should people handle the disposal of household appliances like refrigerators and microwaves? Are there specific procedures or steps they need to follow?
Household appliances like refrigerators and microwaves should be taken to recycling centers like ours. It’s important to remove hazardous materials such as refrigerants before dropping them off. Calling ahead to ensure you’re following the correct procedures is always a good idea.
What hazardous materials can be recycled, and how should they be disposed of? What should people do with materials like lead-based paint and other chemicals? Are there any specific guidelines for recycling batteries?
Hazardous materials like certain pesticides, pool chemicals, and spray paint cans can be recycled at our center. Lead-based paint should be neutralized with kitty litter and disposed of in regular trash. Car batteries and low-acid batteries can be taken to specialized recycling centers, but regular household batteries need to be taken to facilities that handle them specifically.
Why aren’t plastic toys recyclable in most local facilities, and what alternatives do people have for disposing of them? Do you have any suggestions for donating toys that are in good condition?
Plastic toys aren’t recyclable in most local facilities because of the type of plastic used. The best alternative is to donate them if they are in good condition to places like Goodwill or Salvation Army. Otherwise, they will end up in the landfill.
Styrofoam is a common item people inquire about. Can it be recycled, and if not, what should people do with it?
Styrofoam cannot be recycled in our area and should be disposed of with regular trash. We advise people to avoid using it if possible.
Scrap metal seems to be easier to recycle. What type of scrap metals can be accepted for recycling? Are there any contaminants people should watch for before recycling scrap metal?
Scrap metal such as steel, aluminum, and copper can be easily recycled. It’s important to ensure the metals are free of contaminants like plastic or fabric.
Propane tanks require special care for disposal. What should people do to ensure they are recycled safely?
Propane tanks need to be taken to specialized facilities that handle scrap metal or hazardous waste due to their potential for explosion.
Plant shelves and gardening items are frequently asked about. How should people handle their disposal, especially if they are made of mixed materials? Where can people take metal gardening equipment for recycling?
Plant shelves and gardening items made of metal can often be recycled as scrap metal. Items made of mixed materials will typically need to go to the landfill. Local scrap metal recycling centers can take metal gardening equipment.
What advice would you give to someone who is unsure about how to dispose of a particular item?
If you’re unsure about how to dispose of a particular item, the best thing to do is to contact your local recycling center. They can provide guidance and answer any questions you might have.
How can residents in Stark, Tuscarawas, and Wayne counties make an appointment to recycle approved materials?
Residents can make an appointment by visiting timetorecycle.org or calling 330-874-2258. It’s essential to do this to ensure proper disposal and recycling of materials.
Are there any other tips or best practices for responsible disposal of household items during spring cleaning season?
Always check for specific disposal guidelines for different items, and don’t hesitate to reach out to recycling centers for advice. Donate items in good condition if possible to reduce waste.
Where can people find more information or reach out?
People can find more information or reach out by visiting our website timetorecycle.org or by calling our center directly. We’re here to help with any recycling and disposal questions.
