Proper waste management is a crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy and sustainable community. But what happens if we don't follow the rules? Let's dive into the world of trash sorting in Whatcom County and uncover some surprising facts.
The Impact of Improper Waste Disposal
Improper waste disposal can lead to serious health risks and environmental damage. As Whatcom County wisely points out, "Proper waste disposal keeps our homes and community free of disease and toxic materials." It's a simple yet powerful statement that highlights the importance of responsible trash management.
But here's where it gets controversial: what happens if we don't sort our trash correctly? Let's explore the dos and don'ts of waste sorting in Whatcom County and discover the potential consequences.
Who's in Charge of Trash and Recycling?
In Whatcom County, trash and recycling collection is handled by a few dedicated companies. The Sanitary Service Company, for instance, collects garbage, recycling, and food waste in Bellingham, Ferndale, Blaine, and Birch Bay, as well as unincorporated areas of the county. They offer a convenient online tool to find your waste collection schedule, so you can plan accordingly.
Nooksack Valley Disposal & Recycling also plays a significant role, primarily serving the Lynden area. Candord Recycling and Disposal provides waste collection services for the Point Roberts community, following a schedule posted on their website.
What Goes Where?
Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty of trash sorting. What goes in your garbage can in Bellingham? According to the Sanitary Service Company, you can dispose of plastic bags, chip bags, dog poop, paper milk cartons, aluminum foil, juice pouches, plastic straws, and even Styrofoam takeout containers in your curbside garbage container, which is conveniently green with a green lid.
But here's a friendly reminder: "Please bag and seal all garbage before placing it in your container," the Sanitary Service Company advises. "Make sure it all fits with the lid closed to avoid extra charges."
When it comes to recycling, Whatcom County residents can recycle bottles, cans, and scrap paper in their curbside recycling containers. Everything must be "empty, clean, and dry," according to the Sanitary Service Company. Some items you can recycle include cardboard, glass bottles, yogurt containers, newspapers, aluminum containers, milk jugs, and plastic food containers. Additional recyclable items, such as used motor oil, car batteries, and aerosol cans, can be placed in a box next to your recycling container for collection.
For yard waste, the Sanitary Service Company allows residents to put a variety of food scraps and compostable packaging, along with leaves and twigs, in their FoodPlus! yard waste container, which has a green body and a yellow lid. "Organic waste collection is a cost-effective way to reduce waste, trim your garbage bill, and support our community," the company emphasizes.
The Consequences of Misplaced Trash
So, what happens if you accidentally put a recyclable item in your garbage bin? According to Sanitary Service Company customer service representatives, it will be processed along with the rest of your trash. However, if you toss garbage in your recycling bin, the waste removal company will not collect the contents of your container. You'll need to remove the contaminating material before your recycling is picked up.
The same goes for FoodPlus! yard waste bins. If you throw trash or recyclables in your yard waste bin, you'll need to remove them before it can be emptied. At that point, you have two options: wait for the next regularly scheduled pickup date or haul it yourself to one of the company's collection sites.
Large Items and Hazardous Waste
Whatcom County doesn't have any open landfills, but residents can haul garbage and recycling to one of seven transfer stations or drop-box locations. For hazardous waste, such as used oil, cleaners, latex paint, and lawn chemicals, residents can take them to the Whatcom County Disposal of Toxics Program in Bellingham.
The Fate of Yard Waste
The Sanitary Service Company collects "food scraps, food-soiled papers, yard waste, and approved compostable packaging." This organic waste is taken to Cascade Compost & Soil, where it's locally composted and turned into a nutrient-rich soil amendment that helps plants grow. Cascade Compost & Soil also collects yard waste from community members for 3.3 cents per pound, and their soil can be purchased by the bag at Lynden Ace Hardware and Portal Way Farm and Garden.
Need More Guidance?
If you're still unsure about what goes in which container, Whatcom County's Waste Wise online waste and recycling portal is a valuable resource. Sustainable Connections in Bellingham also offers a guide for sorting your trash. For any questions or concerns about your waste collection services, you can reach out to the Sanitary Service Company through their online contact form.
So, Whatcom County residents, let's keep our community clean and healthy by sorting our trash responsibly! Remember, proper waste disposal is not just a chore; it's a community effort that benefits us all.
