There are many ways we can give to others.  Whether it is volunteering time with a non-profit organization, donating to causes that help people in need, supporting our veterans, or simply spending an hour with a senior citizen who lives alone, your efforts enhance the quality of life in our community.  One gift we can make to help protect our environment for future generations is recycling.

The county’s Solid Waste Authority (SWA) has been leading the way for more than 25 years in providing convenient and efficient services that preserve our natural resources.  Their programs rely on your participation, and while you are probably very aware of what goes in your yellow and blue bins, you may not be as familiar with what everyday items are considered household hazardous waste and their proper recycling methods.   This includes a variety of products such as computers, electronics, batteries, cell phone batteries, gas cans, propane tanks, pesticides, fluorescent bulbs, flares, thermometers, used cooking oil, and paint.

The Home Chemical and Recycling Centers (HCRC) located at SWA’s Transfer Stations and Jog Road Campus are one-stop drop-off sites for both home chemicals and regular recyclable items.  In North County, there is an unattended HCRC at 14185 Military Trail (SWA Road) in Jupiter.  The center at 6161 N. Jog Road, West Palm Beach, FL 33412 is attended. 

This disposal service is for Palm Beach County residents only and there is no cost for normal quantities for home chemicals, which are limited at the un-staffed sites to 125 pounds or 15 gallons.  Larger amounts can be accepted at the staffed facilities on Jog Road.

A complete list of materials accepted can be found at https://fl-swa.civicplus.com/174/Hazardous-Products-in-Your-Home. 

Additionally, many big box stores and larger retail chains accept certain materials like rechargeable batteries, used oil, cell phones and electronics; and, of course, there are numerous local organizations that will gladly accept your donations of usable clothing and accessories, appliances, toys and furniture.
If we all take steps to further our recycling efforts, we can reduce the amount of waste that must be placed in landfills for disposal, while being environmentally and fiscally responsible.

I wish you good health and prosperity in 2016, and as always, if there is any way I can assist you, please contact me at (561)355-2201 or by email at hvaleche@pbcgov.org.