From the Office of Community Affairs, October 26, 2020

Mayor William Peduto today announced the plans to distribute 32-gallon blue curbside recycling bins to City residents as part of the Bureau of Environmental Services’ first phase bin distribution. The first phase will cover the neighborhoods of Garfield, Highland Park, and East Liberty. Distribution of blue curbside recycling bins is scheduled to begin Nov. 2, 2020 and will cover 5,500 homes over the span of 10 days and is based on the bureau’s Monday central collection route. Each bin will be scanned and linked to a service location and delivered with an information packet describing how to properly use the bin. In addition, each blue curbside recycling bin will be manufactured in Pennsylvania by Rehrig Pacific Company with at least 5% recycled plastic as part of the Government Demand Champions Program <https://plasticsrecycling.org/recycling-demand-champions/government-demand-champions>. This program exists to stimulate and drive domestic markets for recyclable plastics and thereby drives sustainable plastic recycling. “Pittsburgh is adapting to a stronger culture of waste reduction and material reuse. Our strategic plan for purchasing and deploying blue recycling bins over three years will make that culture change more accessible and equitable for all,” Mayor Peduto said. Prior to receiving their new recycling bin, residents will receive a notification via U.S. Mail letting them know to anticipate their new blue curbside recycling container, along with information on what can and cannot be placed in the bin. The 32-gallon blue curbside recycling bins will consolidate recyclables into one container, making it more convenient for recyclers and the recycling crews who empty them. After receiving their new curbside recycling bins, it is important for residents to remember to put their recyclables in their bins loose and not bagged. This will support the City’s efforts to reduce contamination (when non-recyclables make it into recycling bins), save on costs, and provide high-value recyclables to the circular economy. As a reminder the following recyclables are accepted for single stream curbside collection by the City: - Cardboard, flattened and place into your bin or another box if needed - Glass bottles jugs and jars, caps and lids removed - Aluminum and steel cans - Mixed paper such as junk mail, newspapers, old books and cereal boxes - Empty plastic bottles, jugs and jars, caps and lids removed -- *Highland Park Community Council* Visit our website by clicking here. <https://hpccpgh.org/>