Kirkland partners with Waste Management for recycling education and community engagement

Kirkland's commitment to recycling took center stage during a recent government meeting, where Grace Fletcher from Waste Management (WM) shared vital insights on proper recycling practices. With over 20 years of partnership with the city, WM has been instrumental in educating residents about recycling and ensuring that materials are effectively processed for reuse.

Fletcher emphasized the importance of understanding the recycling "streams"—the blue bin for recyclables, the green for compost, and the gray for garbage. She explained that residents can simplify their recycling efforts by screwing plastic bottle caps back onto their bottles before disposal, as this allows them to be processed together as a single item. However, loose caps should be avoided, as they are too small to be effectively sorted at recycling facilities.

The discussion also touched on common recycling dilemmas, such as the fate of pizza boxes. Fletcher clarified that while greasy pizza boxes are often a concern, they can still be recycled if they are not overly contaminated. This practical advice aims to reduce confusion and encourage more residents to participate in recycling efforts.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for the community to tour the Cascade Recycling Center in Woodinville, where residents can witness firsthand how their recyclables are sorted and processed. This initiative not only aims to enhance public understanding of recycling but also reinforces Kirkland's dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship. As Fletcher aptly put it, the goal is to create a "reinforcing loop of goodness," where materials are continuously recycled and transformed into new products, contributing to a healthier planet.