Recycling
Earth’s natural resources are limited. It is important to recycle and reuse materials whenever possible. Recycling efforts can significantly reduce harmful waste to protect ourselves and future generations. Recycling gives materials a new purpose after they are turned over to local waste haulers. Those who practice recycling can save time and money on top of being good environmental stewards.
Recycling Facts
Studies show that:
- About 60 percent of rubbish that ends up in trash bins can be recycled
- A vehicle is 80 percent recyclable
- Plastics take 500 years to decompose
- Glass is 100 percent recyclable
- It takes 24 trees to make one ton of paper
- Recycling paper creates 70 percent less pollution compared to normal non-recycled material paper production
- One recycled tin can saves enough energy to power a television for 3 hours
Disposal
Residents and businesses often defer rubbish to landfills. The US Environmental Protection Agency estimates that municipal solid waste generation continues to climb, which calls for energy conservation and other methods to prevent environmental degradation. Many waste haulers are currently generating energy and creating composting programs to mitigate landfill use.
Commonly Used Products that May be Hazardous:
Automotive Products
Antifreeze | Used oil, brake and transmission fluid | Gasoline, diesel and fuel additives | Solvents and degreasers
Paints, Solvents, & Woodworking Supplies
Oil-based paints | Paint thinners and strippers | Stains and finishes
Fertilizers, Pesticides & Herbicides
Weed killer | Ant poison
Household Cleaners
Polishes and cleaners | Drain openers | Oven cleaners | Solvents
Batteries & Light Bulbs
Compact florescent light bulbs (CFL) | Rechargeable batteries | Fluorescent light bulbs
Miscellaneous
Pool and spa chemicals | Propane tanks & compressed gas cylinders | Film developing chemicals | Nail polish and removers|Insect repellents | Lighter fluid
Links to Additional Recycling & Disposal Resources
There are many recycling facilities, hazardous waste collection events and curbside collection programs in Colorado to assist with residential recycling and disposal.
- Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment Waste management and recycling
- City of Englewood Environmental Resources
- City of Littleton Green/Environmental Programs
- Earth911
- Recycling Centers of Colorado
- Tri-County Health Department
- Medication Take Back Locations
- RV tank dumping – Chatfield State Park
- or local RV storage facilities