New procedures for processing plastic at Calhoun Recycling Center

Beginning this week, the City of Calhoun will begin a new procedure for processing plastic at the Recycling Center, 215 Pine Street.

According to recycling Coordinator Judy Peterson, all # 1 and # 2 plastic is now being sold to Marglen Industries out of Shannon, and everyone is asked to leave plastic recyclables on one of the tables to be sorted by an attendant.

Pryor to this change in venue, all plastic was being donated to the Dalton Recycling Center, but by keeping our plastics at home, we can process the plastic to a good partner and make a small amount of money on each shipment.

At the bottom of most plastic containers you will find a small number inside the three- arrow triangle recycling symbol. This number refers to the type of plastic the container is made of. Because plastics made of different molecules don’t mix when the materials are recycled, the items must be separated.

Examples of type #1 containers are: soda and water bottles, cooking oil bottles, peanut butter jars, mouthwash bottles and medicine containers.

Type # 2 includes: laundry and dish detergent bottles, milk, shampoo and conditioner bottles and various toys.

Drinking bottles only in a clear plastic bag can be deposited directly into the bin.

Details are forthcoming about a project to be sponsored by Beth Vaughn that will allow the recycling of plastic bags and other soft plastics.

Peterson would like to thank everyone who participates for their recycling efforts, and urges them to encourage others to get involved.