Plenty of items that end up in landfills could get a second life after being recycled, and to reduce the amount of recyclable items that end up in the trash, Westfield is launching a new recycling service in June.
The town has partnered with Curb My Clutter to create a program that will allow for curbside electronics and clothing recycling.
Residents who want to schedule a pickup can contact the service via text message. Most of the items will be collected for free, although there is a fee for certain computer monitors and televisions.
Towns that are starting new recycling programs can use flyer printing to let people know about the service and to explain how it works. Letting people know the importance of the program and why it is a convenient option can also help encourage participation.
To get people to join in and recycle their clothes and electronics, Curb My Clutter is giving out Amazon gift cards.
For people who might be concerned that a clothing recycling program will reduce the amount of garments that get donated, Bob Anderson, the vice president for business development for the organization, stresses that the goal is to keep clothing out of the waste stream. As much as 8% of all landfill waste is clothing and up to 85% of clothing ends up getting thrown out.
As for electronics, although NJ state law requires them to be recycled, many people still put theirs in the trash. The hope is that the new program will offer people an easy way to recycle at home.
