Treasure Coast Sun

Port St. Lucie residents are being encouraged to show their love for the planet by participating in the city's cardboard recycling initiative. Throughout February, and all year long, residents can break down their cardboard boxes on designated pick-up days to help keep the streets clean and green.

"Embracing those cardboard boxes and breaking them down every week on your designated pick-up day helps keep our streets clean and green together," said a spokesperson for the City of Port St. Lucie. "Setting your heart on sustainability is good for Mother Earth and keeps Port St. Lucie beautiful."

Recycling is an essential practice that reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills, conserves natural resources, and prevents pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, it can help reduce the city's overall garbage disposal costs.

To ensure that residents recycle correctly, the City of Port St. Lucie has provided some helpful tips. First, it is important to empty the box of any packing materials, such as Styrofoam or packing peanuts. Flattening the cardboard box will save space, making it easier to transport for recycling. The spokesperson also advised ensuring that the box is dry and clean before placing it in the recycling cart.

"Dented, ripped, and damaged cardboard can still be recycled," the spokesperson added. "You do not have to remove tape or labels, as the recycling process will remove these for you. Milk, juice, and cereal boxes can also be recycled if cleaned and dry."

However, there are some items that are not accepted for recycling. Soiled pizza boxes, for example, should have the soiled part with food scraps placed in the trash, while the clean part can be recycled. Coated paper or wax containers, such as take-out boxes with metal handles or produce containers, should be thrown in the trash. Styrofoam packaging should be removed from recyclable boxes and either placed in the trash or taken to the St. Lucie County Solid Waste Baling & Recycling Facility. Plastic or bubble wrap should also be removed from recyclable boxes and either brought to a store recycling bin or placed in the trash.

The City of Port St. Lucie is committed to sustainable waste management, and with the help of its residents, it aims to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. More recycling tips can be found on the City of Port St. Lucie's website at CityofPSL.com/SolidWaste.

By participating in the cardboard recycling initiative, residents of Port St. Lucie can make a positive impact on the environment and contribute to keeping their city clean and beautiful.