Introduction: How to Create a Recycling System in Cache County

ALT text: Green recycle graphic on wood table, surrounded by recyclable products.


This instructable will walk you through setting up a recycling system for citizens of Cache County who are interested in going green but don't know where to start.

Supplies

ALT text: Blue bin with white recycle graphic.

You will need

  • Some kind of container or bin
  • Access to computer or cell phone

Step 1: Create a List of What Can Be Recycled

ALT text: Cache County recycling poster

Depending on your area, a lot of products that you throw away every day are recyclable. In Cache Valley, these include...

  • Cardboard boxes/packaging
  • Paper
  • Magazines
  • Paper Bags
  • Paper carton eggs
  • Metal cans/ aluminum
  • Plastic bottles milk jugs

Cache Valley DOES NOT accept

  • Glass (separate drop site for glass is available)
  • Styrofoam
  • Pizza Boxes
  • Food/green waste
  • Plastic bags
  • Disposable cups/lids/straws

more information at https://www.loganutah.org/government/departments/environmental/recycling/what_can_i_recycle.php

Additionally, Cache Valley operates a green waste facility. Here, you can drop off:

  • Grass
  • Leaves
  • Clean Hay/straw
  • Shrubs
  • Branches
  • Non-invasive weeds

The green waste facility DOES NOT accept:

  • Rocks/Gravel
  • Dirt
  • Sod
  • Pet Waste


Create a list of things you know you can recycle, either printed out or on your phone, to have handy.

Step 2: Make Space for Your Bin

ALT text: Blue bin with recycle logo and list of products, near a white garbage can.

Now you are going to need to designate a space for your recycling bin. It should be near your garbage can so that it is easy and accessible.

  • Make sure you label your recycling bin and your garbage can differently so you do not get them mixed up.
  • Locate your recycling bin near a sink, so you can easily rinse off plasticware before recycling.

Step 3: Seperate Your Garbage

ALT text: can, glass bottle, wood, apple, crumpled paper, and plastic bottle.

Now that you have a place for recycled items, and you know what needs to be recycled, you can separate your trash accordingly.

Step 4: Find Recycling Centers Near You

ALT text: building; map labeled recycling center.

Find your nearest recycling center for more information on pick-up schedules and drop-off locations depending on what works for you.


Cache Valley resources:

https://www.loganutah.org/government/departments/environmental/recycling/index.php


Cache County Recycling Information - Utah Department of Environmental Quality

Step 5: Other Tips When Recyling

ALT text: rinsing off Tupperware; plastic windex bottle; cardboard boxes; folded cardboard boxes.

Here are a few things you can keep in mind as you start your recycling journey.

  • Fold cardboard boxes to save space
  • Be mindful of what is recyclable while grocery shopping.
  • Clean off plastic ware before recycling it.