WasteNot

PAPER CUPS

Curbside Recycling or Not?

The short answer – no. Paper cups cannot be included in your curbside recycling program. They’re made of paper, so WHY NOT? The used cup has been contaminated with the beverage it held. Additionally, paper cups have a thin plastic lining on the inside and the plastic cannot be separated from the paper at the recycling center.

Your best bet is to use reusable cups!

IN THE COMMUNITY:

FAIRFAX TACKLES CONTAMINATION

In 2019, Fairfax was the District’s target community. In this role, Fairfax and the District created an action plan to reduce bagged recyclables (recyclables secured in a plastic bag) found in the recycling carts. To do so, the community received targeted outreach to stop this contaminant, including a billboard, articles in the community’s newsletters, two mail pieces, and education through public events and community groups.

By conducting cart audits before and after the outreach, Fairfax had a 42% decrease in bagged recyclables.

Want to learn more about this project, read the wrap up report here!

GRANT OPPORTUNITIES IN HAMILTON COUNTY

Hamilton County Recycling and Solid Waste District’s Waste Reduction Innovation Grant is back to assist communities, schools, non-profit organizations, and private sector businesses fund waste reduction programs in Hamilton County. Proposals will be considered for funding as they are received. The District will accept applications until October 16, 2020 at 12:00 p.m., or until funding runs out. For more information, check out the recorded webinar .

Greater Cincinnati Smart Kitchen Initiative offers assistance to reduce pre-consumer food waste and/or donate prepared foods from food service operators in Hamilton County. Participants will receive free technical support and training from experts at Hamilton County Recycling and Solid Waste District and may also receive funds to assist with the purchase of needed equipment.

For other grant opportunities, visit our website .

IN THE COMMUNITY

Residential Recycling Incentive Program

Applications for the Residential Recycling Incentive (RRI) program will be due Friday, February 14, 2020. The RRI grant provides communities in Hamilton County funds for waste reduction projects based on their diversion rate and tons recycled. Your community will receive an email reminder with the application in early January. New to the RRI or want a refresher? We will be hosting a webinar on January 15 ^th at 10 a.m., register here.

THE WASTELESS COOK RECIPE

Cinnamon Sugar Crusts

Family won’t eat their sandwich crusts? No problem. Save them up and try out this tasty treat with those stale crusts rather than putting them in the compost.