Solid Waste & Recycling Newsletter

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation sent this bulletin on 11/04/2021 01:29 PM EDT
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Solid Waste & Recycling Newsletter 

Are Candy Wrappers Recyclable?

Bucket of Candy

In short, no. Candy wrappers are not recyclable and should be properly disposed of in the trash.

Why Candy Wrappers Can't Go in Your Home Recycling Bin - The Scary Truth

Candy wrappers can't go in your home recycling bin because they are often made of what’s known as multi-material packaging. This means the packaging is made up of different types of materials. You’ll notice most candy wrappers have a shiny metal on the inside as compared to the outside. This helps protect and keep treats fresh, but it makes the packaging very difficult to recycle because of the challenge of separating the materials from each other.

Getting More Out of Your Fall Favorites: Apples & Pumpkins

Pumpkin Puree

Fall is a great time to come together with family and friends over food. Make the most of your food this fall by keeping the following in mind:

  • Roast your pumpkin seeds
  • Try making pumpkin puree out of your extra pumpkins. It's a great way to use them before they go bad, and you can use it in anything from homemade pumpkin spice lattes and pumpkin pie to a delicious and creative ravioli filling. Pumpkin puree can also be frozen for later use.
  • Don't toss (or compost) those old or slightly mushy apples! They're great for baking and can be used in almost any of your favorite apple-based desserts. If you don't have as much of a sweet tooth, try making a homemade, low-sugar applesauce with your mealy apples.
  • Freezing is your friend. If you're doing a lot of entertaining this fall, remember that you can freeze many of your leftovers and enjoy them later. Casseroles, hummus, and herbs, among many other foods, all freeze well.

Composting Your Pumpkin Leftovers

Jack-O-Lanterns

Instead of haunting our landfills with pumpkins, try composting! Pumpkins and other fall gourds are great additions to your home compost pile.

Tips for Composting Pumpkins:

  • Smash up any pumpkin rinds and guts before mixing them into your backyard pile with plenty of carbon sources (leaves, wood chips, twigs, etc.).
  • Be sure to remove any candles, wax, or lights from your spooky creation, and avoid composting any painted or glittered pumpkins.
  • Removing seeds ahead of time can help prevent growing pumpkin plants in your compost pile later on.

Pumpkin Smash or Pumpkin Drop Off Events
No home compost pile? Look for a local Pumpkin Smash or pumpkin drop off event in your area for a fun way to send your Jack-O-Lanterns off sustainably.

NYS Food Donation & Food Scraps Recycling Law Updates

Excess Food Handbook Cover

Business Guidance Now Available
DEC has developed guidance for businesses and institutions required to comply with the NYS Food Donation and Food Scraps Recycling Law. The guidance outlines regulations, best practices and resources when developing food waste reduction, food donation and food scraps recycling programs.

Food Donation Assistance Program

FeedingNYS is providing donation technical assistance to businesses & institutions who need help:

  • setting up a donation program
  • finding a food bank or local food rescue organization to partner with
  • understanding food safety practices when donating

Call FeedingNYS at (518) 930-7000 for assistance.

Events

DEC Proposed Rule Makings & Public Hearings

Conferences, Workshops & Webinars

Funding/RFP Opportunities - Application Deadlines

We Want To Hear From You!

Is there a topic you'd like to learn more about or a public event or workshop related to recycling (organics, textiles, traditional recyclables, etc.) you'd like the greater community to know more about? E-mail us at organicrecycling@dec.ny.gov and it could be featured in an upcoming Solid Waste & Recycling Newsletter.