Orangetown, N.Y. – In an era where environmental consciousness is at the forefront of community initiatives, the Orangetown Highway Department has launched an “Everyday Recycling” program that promises not only to enhance local recycling efforts but also to foster significant cost savings and environmental benefits.
The program, detailed in a recently released infographic, underscores the comprehensive approach Orangetown is taking towards recycling. It highlights that town recycling is far from being a mere weekly or fair-based activity, but a daily commitment that encompasses a variety of materials and waste types.
Materials Recycled Daily
The initiative boasts an extensive daily recycling routine. By focusing on materials used in common public works projects such as asphalt, paving, drainage, road repairs, and concrete sidewalk projects, the department recycles existing asphalt and concrete from reconstruction excavations. This practice not only reduces the need for new materials but also mitigates the environmental impact of manufacturing these materials, thereby conserving non-renewable resources.
Cost Savings
One of the significant advantages of this robust recycling program is the reduction in disposal costs and the savings from not purchasing new products. Moreover, the environmental benefits are substantial, as it decreases the dependency on non-renewable resources, fuels, and energy required for production. These savings can then be redirected to other vital community projects, thereby improving the town’s overall efficiency and sustainability.
Green Waste Recycling
The program also places a strong emphasis on green waste recycling. Brush and leaves collected through the Green Waste Removal and Fall Leaf Pickup Program are transformed into compost and mulch. These products are then made available to residents at no cost, promoting local use of recycled materials and further embedding sustainable practices within the community.
Highway Department Recycling Items
The comprehensive list of recyclable items managed by the Highway Department includes:
- Loose Leaf Pick-Up Program
- Green Waste Removal Program
- Street Sweeping Program (STP)
- Millings from road reconstruction and paving projects
- Drop-Off Center for metal and electronic recycling
- Hot In-Place Pavement Recycling (STP)
- Winter Mix
These efforts demonstrate the department’s dedication to maintaining clean streets and public spaces while also supporting recycling initiatives.
Collaboration with Rockland Green
The Orangetown Highway Department’s recycling efforts are bolstered by their partnership with Rockland Green. This collaboration facilitates additional recycling opportunities, including:
- Paper shredding events
- Residential recycling of glass, plastic, paper, and cardboard
- Drop-Off Center services for cardboard, electronics, food scraps, and crushed glass
By integrating these programs, Orangetown ensures that residents have ample opportunities to recycle a wide array of materials, making it easier to participate in sustainable practices.
Community Impact
The “Everyday Recycling” program by the Orangetown Highway Department is a testament to the town’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community service. By embedding recycling into the daily operations and providing accessible services to residents, the program not only fosters a culture of sustainability but also sets a precedent for other towns to follow.
As communities around the nation grapple with the challenges of waste management and environmental conservation, Orangetown’s innovative approach provides a model for integrating comprehensive recycling practices into municipal operations. This initiative is not just about managing waste but about creating a sustainable future for the residents of Orangetown and beyond.