Zachary Partners with Waste Management to Enhance Recycling Program

The City of Zachary has announced a partnership with Waste Management to improve its residential recycling services. Starting soon, residents will receive weekly collection services, with designated pickup days based on their location. Collection occurs on either Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Friday. Residents can sign up for the program by visiting wm.com.

As part of this initiative, Waste Management will introduce new 96-gallon green carts with gold lids for recycling. Unlike the previous system that involved 18-gallon bins, the new carts will be serviced by automated trucks, enhancing efficiency. Residents are encouraged to keep their smaller bins, but Waste Management will cease collection from them once the new carts are operational.

Recycling Guidelines and Accepted Materials

A recent news release from the city outlined specific guidelines for the recycling program. All recyclables must be placed in the designated carts and cannot be bagged or lined. Residents should position their garbage and recycling carts at least three feet apart and curbside the night prior to scheduled pickups, which begin at 5 a.m. each collection day.

The following items are accepted in the new recycling carts:

– Newspapers, magazines, and scrap paper
– Flattened cardboard
– Plastics labeled No. 1 to No. 7, including milk cartons and juice boxes
– Clean aluminum and tin food or beverage cans
– Cereal and cracker boxes, as well as rinsed juice, milk, and cream cartons

Conversely, certain items are not accepted for recycling. These include, but are not limited to:

– Plastic bags and foam products
– Glass containers
– Household waste, yard debris, and construction materials
– Hazardous materials such as electronics, batteries, and paint

Impact on Residents and Future Rates

The new recycling program aims to streamline the collection process while promoting environmental responsibility among residents. The city has also announced revised rates for garbage and recycling services, effective 2025. For residents within city limits, the monthly fee for garbage will be $33.30, which includes $24.50 for garbage and $8.80 for recycling. Senior residents will benefit from a reduced rate of $18.15, comprising $13.75 for garbage and $4.40 for recycling.

This initiative reflects Zachary’s commitment to enhancing waste management practices and encouraging recycling within the community. Residents are urged to familiarize themselves with the new guidelines to ensure a smooth transition to the updated system.