Dear Recycle Lady,
Should I remove labels from steel cans before I put them in the recycling bin?
Can Recycler
Dear Can Recycler,
Labels on steel cans do not need to be removed before recycling the cans. The labels are disposed of by the high heat used in the recycling process. However, if the labels are removed, they can be recycled with magazines. Damping the label somewhat when rinsing out the can makes the label removeable. Be sure the can and the label are clean and dry before recycling them.
Dear Recycle Lady,
What is the Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act?
Curious Reader
Dear Curious Reader,
The Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act of 2021 (BFFPPA) was introduced in Congress on March 25, 2021. It has been referred to the Senate Finance Committee and the House Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment. According to www.breakfreefromplastic.org, the bill would reduce throwaway plastics, outline practical strategies for the reduction of plastic and offer solutions to the plastic pollution crisis.
Dear Recycle Lady,
I am beginning to use my reusable shopping bags at the grocery store. Is this worthwhile?
No Single Use Bags
Dear No Single Use Bags,
Yes, using reusable shopping bags is definitely worth the effort. You will be helping to decrease plastic pollution, lessen your carbon footprint, protect wildlife and conserve recourses. It is estimated that the average reusable bag has a lifespan equal to more than 700 single use plastic bags. It takes 10 to 20 years for a plastic bag to disintegrate and break down into small toxic particles. Plus, there are costs to produce and to dispose of single-use bags. The website, www.reusethisbag.com/articles/25-reasons-to-go-reusable, lists 25 reasons to use reusable bags instead of both plastic and paper bags. It’s a great read. Be sure your reusable bag is washed or wiped clean with use.
Good News! Lego has unveiled its first bricks made from recycled plastic bottles and hopes to include the pieces in sets within two years! Every 1-litre plastic bottle used in the process provides enough material for 10, 4” x 2” Lego bricks.
Many thanks to the recyclers who joined us for the Recycling Workshop Friday. We had a great exchange of information on recycling, answered questions and I now have several new questions for this column. The next Recycling Workshop will be Friday, Aug. 20, at the Recycling Center from 10 a.m. to noon. Come join us.
Have questions about recycling, or interesting information about recycling? Send questions or requests to recyclelady@greenbrier-swa.com. Dear Recycle Lady is sponsored jointly by the Greenbrier Recycling Center and Greenworks Recycling.