The City of Zachary has announced a partnership with Waste Management to improve its residential recycling services. Effective from March 2024, the new program will utilize automated trucks to collect recyclables, replacing the older rear-load system. This initiative aims to streamline recycling efforts and enhance convenience for residents.
Recycling Cart Guidelines and Collection Schedule
Under the new program, all residents will receive a 96-gallon green cart with a gold lid for recyclables. The collection days will be specific to each location, falling on either Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Friday. Residents are encouraged to visit wm.com to register for the recycling service.
Residents may retain their existing 18-gallon bins, but Waste Management will discontinue collecting recyclables from these bins once the new carts are fully operational. To ensure successful collection, residents must adhere to certain guidelines. Carts should be placed at least three feet apart from each other and any obstructions. Additionally, the carts should be positioned curbside the night before collection, as pickups will commence at 5 a.m.
For proper recycling practices, residents are instructed to empty recyclables loose into the designated cart—using bags or liners is prohibited.
Accepted and Non-Accepted Items
The list of accepted recyclables includes a variety of materials, such as:
– Newspapers, magazines, scrap paper, and flattened cardboard
– Plastics labeled No. 1 to No. 7, including milk cartons, juice boxes, and rinsed detergent refill containers
– Rinsed aluminum and tin food/beverage cans
– Cereal and cracker boxes (without liners) and rinsed juice, milk, and cream cartons
Conversely, certain items are not accepted in the recycling program. These include:
– Plastic bags, foam products, bubble wrap, and plastic film
– Glass bottles or containers
– Household waste, yard waste, and construction debris
– Hazardous materials, including electronics, batteries, and chemicals
– Soiled paper products, clothing hangers, toys, and various food containers
By following these guidelines, the City of Zachary aims to foster a cleaner environment and promote sustainable practices among its residents.
Service Costs and Senior Discounts
The new garbage and recycling rates for residents inside city limits are structured as follows:
– Garbage: $33.30
– Recycling: $24.50
– Total for recycling services: $8.80
For senior residents within city limits, the rates are significantly reduced:
– Garbage: $18.15
– Recycling: $13.75
– Total for recycling services: $4.40
This comprehensive recycling program, in partnership with Waste Management, represents a significant step forward for the City of Zachary in its commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement.
