MEDIA RELEASE

The level of recycling continues to increase on the Big Island.

Linda Peters, county Recycling Coordinator, said during the past three years the county’s recycling rate is up from 24 percent to 36 percent.

Last year, more than 87,000 tons of solid waste was diverted from county landfills through recycling and diversion programs, Peters said.

Recycling saves resources, reduces energy consumption and global warming, promotes litter-free beaches and parks and creates jobs. On the Island of Hawaii, the need to recycle has grown with increasing population and the Hilo landfill nearing capacity.

During the holiday season, more shopping and celebrations also increase the amount of solid waste in the county. Here are basic steps to reduce waste and get started recycling for the holidays and into the future:

* Visit the county’s Recycling and Solid Waste Website www.hawaiizerowaste.org

* Learn about all types of recycling and solid waste disposal services, including locations, hours of operation and items accepted.

* Use the easy 2-Bin system to recycle household items. Get two containers to sort recyclables at home. One container is for non-HI5 glass. The other container is for mixed recyclables: most types of paper, cardboard, #1, #2 and #5 plastics, non-HI5 aluminum and tin cans.

* Take recyclables to the recycling bins at transfer stations. For convenience, place containers for recyclables next to trash cans in your home.

* Compost green and food waste. The County offers composting workshops with a free composter through Recycle Hawaii. Check the website for one near you.

* Take household hazardous waste to the next collection day in your area. Collection days are regularly scheduled in Hilo, Kona, Waimea and Pahoa at the transfer stations. The next dates are Dec. 4 in Hilo and Dec. 11 in Kona.

* Purchase products made from recycled materials and packaged in recyclable materials.

* Reduce waste and buy products with less packaging.

* Reuse items, donate items that still can be used or take them to a Reuse Center.

For more information, call Linda Peters, Recycling Coordinator, 961-8942, or email lpeters@co.hawaii.hi.us