Windham starts rolling out new recycling carts

The Town of Windham has started to roll out new recycling carts for residents to increase the volume of single-stream collection efforts.

The Town of Windham has begun
distribution of 64-gallon recycling
carts to residents for use along with
new trash carts when the new trash
collection system launches Sept. 9.
SUBMITTED PHOTO

Town officials say with these new larger recycling carts, residents will be able to place all recyclable items directly into their recycling container. The 64-gallon carts along with new trash carts have begun arriving at residents’ homes this week and will continue until all pick-up locations are covered.

The new carts will replace the smaller bins currently used for Windham residential recycling and come with wheels for easy maneuvering and attached lids to keep recyclables dry and secure.

The Recycling Partnership, a national nonprofit promoting a better recycling system in U.S. communities and states, has awarded Windham a grant support because of its dedication to advancing recycling in the community. The generous grant from The Recycling Partnership, with support from GlobalGiving, made in partnership with L'Oréal, will provide 1,600 new recycling carts to the town and includes funding for education and outreach about the new collection process.

Windham officials ask that residents continue to do their part by placing only recyclable materials in their recycling carts, including glass bottles and jars, aluminum and steel cans, food and beverage cartons, paper products (including newspapers and flattened cardboard), and empty plastic bottles and containers. To help limit contamination, give food and drink containers a quick rinse and then place them directly into the recycling cart with no sorting needed.

Some items that cannot be recycled include plastic bags, styrofoam, paper towels, electrical equipment, batteries, and clothing. These items often get mixed into recycling carts because of “wish recycling,” or the hope that they can be recycled. While well-intentioned, non-recyclable items can cause serious issues when placed in recycling carts for proper disposal.

For further information about what can and can’t go into the cart, visit https://windhammaine.us/202/Windham-Curbside-Trash-Recycling-Program or https://www.casella.com/services/recycling

Residents of Windham can begin using their new trash and recycling carts beginning the week of Sept. 9. Your collection day may have changed, so residents are advised to please check the town website for your collection day.

To find your recycling day and answers to other Frequently Asked Questions about trash and recycling, visit https://windhammaine.us/202/Windham-Curbside-Trash-Recycling-Program or https://www.ecomaine.org/what-can-be-recycled/recyclopedia/ or call the Windham Public Works Department during business hours at 207-892-1909. <