RecycleWise.orgYour Washington County Resource

For Waste Prevention and Recycling

P r i n t e d o n 5 0 % p o s t - c o n s u m e r , r e c y c l e d c o n t e n t p a p e r u s i n g s o y - b a s e d i n k s .

A PUBLICATION OF THE COOPERATIVE RECYCLING PROGRAM OF WASHINGTON COUNTY AND THE CITIES OF BANKS, CORNELIUS, DURHAM, FOREST GROVE, HILLSBORO, KING CITY, NORTH PLAINS, SHERWOOD, TIGARD, AND TUALATIN.

GARBAGE & RECYCLINGCOLLECTION COMPANIES

Allied Waste Services of Clackamas(503) 682-0336

Allied Waste Services of Lake Oswego(503) 636-3011 • lakeoswego.disposal.com

Aloha Garbage Co., Inc.(503) 649-6727

Cornelius Disposal(503) 357-3510

Garbarino Disposal Service(503) 647-2335

Hillsboro Garbage Disposal, Inc.(503) 648-4219

Newberg Garbage Service(503) 538-1388

Pride Disposal Company(503) 625-6177 • pridedisposal.com

Swatco Sanitary Service(503) 324-0230 • swatcosanitary.com

Valley Garbage & Recycling, Inc.(503) 643-7063

Valley West Refuse Disposal(503) 649-5252

Walker Garbage Service(503) 531-6330

Waste Management(503) 249-8078 • wm.com

West Slope Garbage Service(503) 292-8173

CITY OFFICESCity of Banks

(503) 324-5112 • cityofbanks.orgCity of Cornelius

(503) 357-9112 • ci.cornelius.or.usCity of Durham(503) 639-6851

City of Forest Grove(503) 992-3200 • forestgrove-or.gov

City of Hillsboro(503) 681-6219 • ci.hillsboro.or.us

City of King City(503) 639-4082 • ci.king-city.or.us

City of North Plains(503) 647-5555 • northplains.org

City of Sherwood(503) 625-5722 • ci.sherwood.or.us

City of Tigard(503) 639-4171 • tigard-or.gov

City of Tualatin(503) 691-3093 • ci.tualatin.or.us

COUNTY OFFICE Washington County

Solid Waste & Recycling(503) 846-8609 • www.recyclewise.org

Oregon Relay Service 711

METRO(503) 234-3000 • www.oregonmetro.gov

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Fall/Winter 2008

County Recycling Increases 18%!Well done, Washington County! In just two years, collectors are hauling an additional 300 tons of recyclable materials each month to Far West Fibers,a material recovery facility (MRF) that processes nearly 90 percent of ourarea’s recyclables. These results reflect the increased effort WashingtonCounty residents and businesses have made to divert valuable resources fromthe trash can to the recycling cart.

The 18 percent increase in Washington County contributes to reaching our regionalgoal of 64 percent by 2009. In 2007 the region achieved a 55 percent recovery rate.

WHAT’S BOOSTING THE RATES?

Residential recycling roll cartsAs of Fall 2008, about 90 percent of Washington County householdshave roll cart recycling which provides more cartvolume than the red bins to collect anexpanded list of materials with minimalpreparation effort.

More materials acceptedNo longer is “check the neck” thestandard. With increased investment intechnology, Far West Fibers’ sortingsystem means Washington Countyresidents can recycle plastic containersincluding yogurt and margarine-type tubs,nursery pots, and buckets. All containersare rinsed clean before being tossed intothe cart/bin. More information about thetypes of plastics accepted for collection canbe found on page 3.

More education/outreachIn areas where roll carts have replaced redbins and the addition of plastic tubs and buckets to the materials list, educational materials have been distributed to many residents to help explain how to use the new containers and which materials can be tossed in.

WHAT IS IN THE MIX?

In the metropolitan region, DEQ’s 2007 Material Recovery and Waste Generation Rates Report identifies six major materials recovered in 2007:

HOW CAN YOU HELP BOOST THE NUMBERS?

In addition to the standard recyclables (paper, plastics, cardboard, and metal), opportunities exist to recycleother materials, such as electronics, textiles, CD cases, computer keyboards, construction/remodeling debrisand much more. See page 8 for a partial list of local depots or log on to Metro’s website(www.oregonmetro.gov) and type into the search box “Find a Recycler”. Users can then customize theirsearch based upon materials, distance willing to travel, and more.

Working together, Washington County, the cities, and the rest of our metropolitan area neighbors can gainground to meet the Oregon HB-3744 goal to divert 64 percent of our waste to recovery (recycling) by 2009.

Paper 31%Newspaper, high-grade paper, corrugated cardboard/kraft paper, mixed waste paper.

Plastic 2%Rigid plastic containers, plastic film,other plastics, and composite plastic.

Glass 4%Container glass and otherglass, such as windshieldglass and ceramics.

Metals 16%Tinned cans, aluminum,other scrap metals.

Organics 41%Wood waste, yard debris,food waste.

Other 6%Tires, used motor oil,batteries, electronics,gypsum, asphaltroofing materials,textiles, andpaint/solvents.

On the SideThe Glass Stands AloneGlass breaks! Keep glass on the side!Place glass in a separate rigidcontainer at the curb forcollection. Roll cart users -reuse red bin to collect glass.If glass is mixed with otherrecyclables and shatters, glassshards may cause harm toworkers and wear out sortingequipment. Do your part! Keep glasson the side. It will then be properlycollected, separated, and manufacturedinto new products.

Choose to Reuse!Next time you hear “Paper or plastic?” at thestore checkout, surprise them with your answer– “Neither.”

A reusable bag is one small step towardreducing the energy and resources spentproducing single-use bags. Only 5 percent ofthe 380 billion plastic shopping bags arerecycled each year. Whether it is through theproduction or the recycling process, paper andplastic bags require significant amounts ofenergy and natural resources.

Reusable bags are sold at local grocery stores for about $1 each. Start a

positive habit today!

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During windy weather, secure materials at the curb. Place loose/shreddedpaper or junk mail in a paper bag and set it in your recycling container.

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTEKeep household hazardous waste out of all garbage and recycling containers.

To dispose of hazardous waste and/orsharps, visit one of the Metro regionalfacilities or a neighborhood event.

Products accepted:

• Paints and stains

• Pool and spa chemicals

• Pesticides and poisons

• Automotive products (oil, antifreeze)

• Thinners and solvents

• Household cleaners and disinfectants

• Batteries

• Art and hobby chemicals

• Aerosol spray products

• Sharps (medical syringes)

• Fire extinguishers

• Propane tanks

• Mercury thermometers and thermostats

Contact Metro’s Recycling InformationCenter for information about properdisposal instructions, facility locations,and events at (503) 234-3000 or log on totheir website oregonmetro.gov/recycling

Used Sharps—Proper Storage and DisposalOregon State law mandates proper storageand disposal of used sharps (needles,lancets, and syringes), whether used forhuman or veterinary purposes.

DO NOT PLACE USED SHARPS IN YOUR GARBAGEOR MIXED RECYCLING CONTAINERS. Workerscan be harmed if sharps are not properlydisposed of in approved containers.

Safe Handling: Store usedsharps in anapproved bio-hazard containers only. Milk jugsand coffee cans are NOT SAFE orACCEPTABLE for sharps storage.

• Return filled sharps containers to a certified bio-hazard disposal facility

• Call Bio-Med of Oregon for home collection service information

• Call your local pharmacy for storage and disposal solutions

Bio-Med of Oregon1-800-622-1378

Metro Information Line(503) 234-3000

WINDY DAYS

ALL TOGETHER IN YOUR CONTAINERPLASTIC• Rinse containers.• Include bottles, tubs, nursery pots, and buckets.• No plastic bags, films, lids, spray pump tops, or

bottles that contained chemical products.

PAPER• Contain scrap and shredded paper in a

paper bag.• Include paperboard, magazines, newspaper,

junk mail, milk cartons, drink boxes, etc.• No tissues, napkins, waxed paper or frozen food

boxes, food-soiled paper, or hard cover books.

CARDBOARD• Flatten boxes—size limited to < 3'x3'.• No wax-coated cardboard.

METAL AND AEROSOL CANS (NO PLASTIC CAPS)• Empty and rinse cans. Labels OK. • Rinse metal caps, lids, aluminum foil, and foil

baking trays.• Empty aerosol cans completely and remove

plastic caps (keep nozzle intact).• Metal paint cans accepted with <1" dry paint.

SCRAP METAL• 30 lbs. limit. Pieces < 30".• Remove plastic, rubber, or foreign material.• No household appliances.

ON THE SIDEGLASS KEEP IT ON THE SIDE• Use a bucket or rigid container to separate

glass from other recyclables. Set two feet from your recycling container.

• Rinse containers and remove lids.• No broken glass, cookware, window glass,

mirrors, light bulbs, or drinking glasses.

MOTOR OIL• Place motor oil in a see-through one-gallon

plastic container with a screw-top lid.• Motor oil only—no other liquids accepted.

NO PLASTIC BAGS OR NEEDLES IN RECYCLING

HOW TO RECYCLE— No matter which recycling collection container youhave, the preparation instructions are the same.

KEEP GLASS AND MOTOR OIL ON THE SIDE.

RED BIN RECYCLING

Glass and motor oil on the side.

ROLLCART RECYCLING

APARTMENT RECYCLING

Glass on the side.

Glass and motor oil on the side.

Recycling questions? Contact your collection company.

www.RecycleWise.org

JUNTE ESTO EN EL RECIPIENTEARTÍCULOS DE PLÁSTICO • Cubetas limpias.• Incluya botellas, tarrinas, macetas y cubetas.• Nada de envolturas o bolsas plásticas, tapas,

boquillas de aerosol, ni envases de químicos peligrosos.

PAPEL• Ponga papel de desecho en bolsas de papel.• Incluya revistas, periódicos, correo no solicitado.• Nada de papel sanitario, servilletas; papel o

cartoncillo encerados, papel con comida, ni libros de tapa dura.

CARTÓN• Aplane las cajas - limite de 3'x3'.• Nada de cartón encerado.

CARTONES DE LECHE Y CAJITAS DE BEBIDAS• Enjuáguelos; retire popotes.

LATAS DE METAL Y BOTES DE AEROSOL• Botes de pintura con menos de 1" de pintura,

sin tapas.• Sólo recipientes limpios.• Vacíelos bien; retire tapa de plástico.

METAL DE DESECHO• Límite 30 lbs., pedazos menos de 30".• Retire plásticos, hule / caucho o otros materiales.• Nada de aparatos eléctricos.

RECICLAJE—PONER AL LADO VIDRIO PONGA A UN LADO• Separe el vidrio, colóquelo en cubeta dura cerca

del reciclaje.• Limpie bien y quite las tapas.• Nada de vidrio roto, loza, ventanas, espejos,

focos o vasos.

ACEITE DE MOTOR• Póngalo en recipiente de plástico transparente

con tapa de rosca.• Sólo aceite de motor—otros líquidos no.

NADA DE BOLSAS DE PLÁSTICO O JERINGAS EN EL RECICLAJE

Recycling atHome

503 823 5431

hotline www.buildgreen411.com

green building

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YES

NO

• Plastic zipper or grocery bags, film, or bubble wrap

• Blister packaging – tough, clear, molded plastic packaging

• All plastic lids and trays (they mix with paper and are disposed of at paper mills)

• Styrofoam

• Disposable food and drinkware

• Bakery/deli/take-out containers

• Seedling trays or nursery pots that crinkle

• Individual-serving containers < 6 oz—applesauce or pudding cups

• Containers that held chemical waste or motor oil

RESOURCES FOR PLASTICS RECYCLING INFORMATIONMetro Facilities and Recycling Information Center (503) 234-3000 www.oregonmetro.govMaster Recycler Program Plastics Round-up Events www.masterrecycler.orgWashington County Cooperative Recycling Program (503) 846-8609 www.RecycleWise.org

• Bottles, tubs, and containers 6 oz. or larger

• Buckets 5-gallons or less (handles OK)k)

• Rigid nursery plant pots 4" to 5 gallons in size

Rinse out food, soil, or drink residue before placing inrecycling container.

ACCEPTED

NOT ACCEPTED IN CURBSIDE RECYCLING

PLASTICS RECYCLING – ALL RESIDENTS No longer is “check the neck” the standard for recycling plastics. Residents may now add bottles,tubs, jugs, pots and buckets. Materials must be rinsed clean of debris for recycling collection.Please keep plastic lids, bags and spray-pumps out of household recycling.

More Recycling Information ...

Your Community Recycles!Does your apartment or condominium property offer recycling? Your property manager can contact theCounty’s Recycling Specialist at (503)846-8609 to learn more.

Property ManagersFree Resources and Technical Assistance Available

Washington County is committed to helping property managers meet the requirements of Statelaw (ORS 90.318) to maximize their recycling program by providing:

• Free educational materials for residents.

• Free technical assistance; ask us about service levels, rates, outreach.

• Access to a regional Property Manager e-newsletter.

Call our Recycling Specialist at (503) 846-8609 to learn more!

STEPS TO A CLEAN AND GREEN COMMUNITY ARE AS EASY AS 1-2-3!

Collect recyclables in your home usinga box, paper bag or bin. Keep glass separate from other recyclables.

Recycle—Look for these stickers and signs around your property that show where to deposit your materials.

Feel great knowing your efforts keep our community clean, reduce greenhousegas emissions, and conserve natural resources.

Metropolitan area businesses send morethan 40 tons of paper—2 semi-truckloads—to the landfill every hour! Did you knownearly all of it could be recycled?Washington County’s Recycle at Workprogram provides free technical assistanceto businesses to help conserve thesevaluable resources.

To certify your organization as a WashingtonCounty Recycle at Work business or toreceive free technical assistance, contactour Recycle at Work Specialists.

CONGRATULATIONS to the followingWashington County Recycle at Work Businesses. They have demonstrated acommitment reducing their waste, recycling,purchasing recycled products, and more.

• Ash Creek Forest Management– Tigard

• ClubSport Oregon– Tualatin

• GeoDesign Inc. – Portland

• MARCO Ideas Unlimited – Tigard

• Press Time Printing – Hillsboro

• Scholls Valley Native Nursery – Tigard

• Security Title Guaranty Co. – Hillsboro

• Ticor Title Insurance – Amberglen

• Ticor Title Insurance – Tigard

• Vangelisti Kocher LLP – Cedar Hills

Recycle at Work—At Your Service!(503) 846-8609 www.RecycleWise.org

www.recycleatwork.com

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You recycle at home, butdo you recycle at work?

Waste Prevention

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2007 Expanded Bottle Bill Begins January 1, 2009Legislation Adds 5¢ Redemption on Water Bottles Oregon enacted the first bottle bill in the country in 1971, but only minor changes have beenmade to it since then. Senate Bill 707, will expand Oregon’s landmark bottle bill for the first timesince its inception to include a refundable deposit for all water and flavored water bottles underthree liters. This will go into effect January 1, 2009.

Effects – Positive or Negligible?The effects of the bottle bill have been shown to reduce litter and boost recovery rates.

Reduce litter: When passed in 1971, the bottle bill was viewed primarily as a litter control measure.As a result of the law, litter has been substantially reduced across Oregon's roadsides andlandscape. In 1971, before the bottle bill passed, beverage containers made up as much as 40percent of roadside litter. By 1973, they were only 10.8 percent and by 1979, 6 percent. This litterreduction impact has continued to date.

Recovery rates: As impressive as litter reduction has been, the bill’s effect on waste reduction andresource conservation has proven to be its most remarkable feature. During the last 35 years,beverage containers return rates in Oregon have exceeded 80 percent and some years have beenas high as 94 percent. Although the estimated return rate for bottle bill containers has dropped to83 percent for 2005, the rates for other beverage containers are considerably lower, as shown inthe table. The estimated total return rate for all non-deposit beverage containers is only 36percent.

With the new year approaching, questions about the Bottle Bill can be directed to the OregonLiquor Control Commission (OLCC), who administers and enforces the bottle bill. For generalbottle bill information or return rates contact OLCC at 1-800-452-4011 or review the 2007expanded bottle bill legislation (Senate Bill 707) at www.leg.state.or.us/bills_laws/.

Estimates of Beverage Container Redemption, Recycling, 2005 (in millions of containers)

Disposed Recycled - not redeemed Redeemed Total Percent Recycled

Beer & soft drink 254.8 63.0 1163.1 1480.9 82.8%deposit

Water 125.5 60.7 186.2 32.6%

Juice/tea/other 137.7 54.1 191.8 28.2%

Milk 43.6 37.2 80.8 46.1%

Wine 11.5 26.4 37.9 69.6%

Liquor 9.4 7.4 16.8 44.3%

Total no-deposit 327.7 185.9 513.5 36.2%

Beer/soft drink/ 518.1 177.8 1163.1 1859.0 72.1% water/juice

All beverages 582.5 248.9 1163.1 1994.5 70.8% (no paper)

Source: Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, 2007 Bottle Bill Expansion Fact Sheet

5¢ DEPOSIT CONTAINERSbeer - malt beverages - carbonated mineral waters - carbonated soft drinkswater - flavored water (as of January 1, 2009)

NO DEPOSIT CONTAINERSJuice – teas – wine – liquor – dairy - non-carbonated drinks or beverages

Go Green for the HolidaysDrive Less.Celebrate More.Avoid the stress and hassles of gas prices, trafficand parking this holiday season.

Make a list and check it twicePlan ahead and try to combine your errands into one trip. Always avoid making trips in rush hour traffic.

Shop close to homeBe a good neighbor and support your local merchants. Avoid holiday stress and searching for a parking spot by usingone of the country’s best transit systems. Walk,bike, bus or MAX to the store for errands orholiday shopping. Use TriMet’s online tripplanning tools (trimet.org) to help you make themost of your trip.

Put MAX in your flight planTake MAX to the airport to avoid expensive taxifares and to save on parking expenses.

Winterize cars and bikesIf you do drive, get your vehiclewinterized. Check your tires to ensureproper tire pressure, which gives bettertraction and mileage. Tuned-up vehiclesrelease less pollution while using lessgasoline. For bike riders, ensure yourbicycle lights are in excellent workingorder with fresh batteries and installfenders to prevent those infamousrooster tails.

Find the most efficient routeUse an online mapping tool to find the mostefficient route for your commute or errands. Planyour bike route by visiting www.bycycle.org orMetro’s Bike There! map available atwww.oregonmetro.gov, area bicycle shops andbookstores.

Carpool to the slopes!CarpoolMatchNW offers one-trip rideshare matching to several local ski and snowboard destinations including Timberline, Mount Hood Meadows, and MountAshland. Visit www.CarpoolMatchNW.org for moreinformation.

(Source: Metro Greenscene, 2007)

BREAK THE WATER BOTTLE HABIT1 water bottle requires two times the bottle’s volume of water to create it.

fact:

Climate Change and YouWhat you can do at home

Source: EPA

Making a few small changes in your home and yard can lead to big reductions of greenhouse gas(GHG) emissions and save you money!

1. Change five lights – Replace your five most frequently used light fixtures or the bulbs in them with ENERGY STAR qualified options and save around $60 annually on energy bills.

2. Heat and cool smartly – Simple steps like cleaning air filters regularly, installing adequate insulation, and having your heating and cooling equipment tuned by a licensed contractor can save energy and increase comfort at home, while reducing GHG emissions.

3. Use green power – Green power is electricity generated from renewable energy sources, such aswind and sun, that don’t contribute to climate change. Consider buying green power or modify your house to generate your own renewable energy.

4. Reduce, reuse, and recycle – Reduce the amount of waste you generate and water you consume whenever possible. Through waste prevention efforts, reuse and recycling, you will conserve energy while reducing pollution and GHG emissions resulting from resource extraction, manufacturing, and disposal.

5. Be green in your yard – Compost food and yard waste to reduce the amount of garbage sent to landfills while reducing GHG emissions.

EPA’s Personal Greenhouse Gas Emissions CalculatorEstimate your GHG emissions resulting from energy use, transportation, and waste disposal.Understand where your emissions come from and how to reduce them.www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/calcuator/ind_calculator.html

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The Center for a New American Dream is a non-profitorganization dedicated to helping support and nurture anAmerican dream that upholds the spirit of the traditionaldream, but with a new emphasis on sustainability and acelebration of non-material values. New American Dreamencourages people to “live consciously, buy wisely, andmake a difference,” which it explains as:

• “Living consciously means getting more of what really matters in life, being aware of what’s going on around you, finding balance, and having a little fun while you’re at it;

• Buying wisely means becoming a positive force in the marketplace, using your purchasing power to support business practices that are safer for the environment and better for people; and

• Making a difference is all about making sure your citizen voices are heard, being active in your community and letting policy-makers know where you stand.”

One of New American Dream’s goals is to shift the culture from an emphasis on more to anemphasis on more of what matters.

It is up to the individual to determine what matters in his or her life, but this organization offers, by way of example, more time, nature, fairness, and fun as appropriate points of emphasis overmaterial goods.

The New American Dream’s campaign, C3: Carbon ConsciousConsumers, is a national climate campaign that challenges individualsto establish climate-friendly daily habits and inspire their friends to dothe same.

Start lowering your carbon emissions today with six easy steps –because BIG changes start with small steps.

1. Bring Your Own Bag – Neither paper or plastic will do – bring your own!

2. Junk Your Junk Mail – Use online forms to eliminate most unwanted ad mail

3. Downshift Your Driving – Carve out one car-free day a week

4. Eat Locally – Buy one pound of local food each week

5. Beat the Heat - Wash four out of five loads of laundry in cold water

6. Break the Bottle Water Habit - Use a non-toxic reusable bottle for water on-the-go and a high-quality filter in your home.

Learn more online at www.newdream.org.

From its extraction through sale, use anddisposal, all the stuff in our lives affectscommunities at home and abroad, yet most ofthis is hidden from view. The Story of Stuff is a20-minute fast-paced, fact-filled look at theunderside of our production and consumptionpatterns. This video exposes the connectionsbetween environmental and social issues, and calls us together to create a more sustainable and just world. It'll teach you something, it'll make you laugh, and it just may change the way you look at all the stuff in your life forever.www.storyofstuff.com

It’s Easy Being GreenAnswer the Call2RecycleHow many rechargeable batterydevices do YOU have around thehouse? The average cell phone userhas three or more devices lingeringin drawers and boxes, whether inworking condition ornot. The RechargeableBattery RecyclingCoalition’s (RBRC)Call2Recycle programencourages users to recyclerechargeable batteries and cell phones atretailers participating in their program. RBRCis a non-profit public service organizationdedicated to recycling rechargeable batteriesand cell phones throughout the U.S. andCanada. The Call2Recycle program can helpconserve the Earth’s natural resources andprevent these materials from entering thewaste stream.

Rechargeable Battery Devices (partial list):

Camcorders PDAs

Digital cameras Laptop computers

Power tools Remote control toys

Cellular and cordless phones

Accepted: Rechargeable Batteries - RBRCrecycles Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd), NickelMetal Hydride (Ni-MH), Lithium Ion (Li-ion)and more.

Not Accepted: Alkaline, lithium, and non-rechargeable batteries. Take these to a Metrohazardous waste collection event or facility.Call Metro at (503) 234-3000.

Participating Retailers (partial list):

Radio Shack Office DepotLowe’s The Home Depot Batteries Plus Sears

For other participating locations, visit or call the Rechargeable Battery RecyclingCorporation at www.call2recycle.com or 1-877-2-RECYCLE (1-877-273-2925).

Kick the Bottle Water HabitTurn the Tap!Tap water is making a comeback! It might even be the ‘must-have accessory’ thisFall! Once marketed as “fashionable or stylish,” bottled water is a product whoseimpact on the environment – and people’s pocketbook – is becoming ‘so 2007!’

With a day’s worth of bottled water – the recommended 64 ounces – costinghundreds to thousands of dollars each year ($4-6/day depending on the brand),more people are opting to quench their thirst with water straight from the faucet. And why not?Municipal water used for drinking costs just pennies annually and is extremely safe due to heavyregulation and testing for public safety. In fact, tap water health regulations are currently stricterthan those for bottled water!

Tualatin Valley Water District (TVWD) supplies drinking water to customers in unincorporatedWashington County, Metzger, and small sections of the Cities of Beaverton and Hillsboro. FrankReed of TVWD explains that residents can be 100 percent confident their drinking water is clean.“We regularly test for more than 200 contaminants and our number one priority is safe, reliabledrinking water. TVWD consistently delivers water that meets or is better than state and federaldrinking water standards.”

According to San Francisco public Utilities Commission Spokesman, Tony Winnicker, “It’sbecoming chic to say, ‘Oh no, I don’t drink bottle water, I’ll have tap water.’” In an economy whereevery dollar counts, people may need encouragement to break the habit.

A few facts to help you make a commitment to turn the tap ...

Gallon for gallon, bottled water is more expensive than gasoline.

64 ounces bottled water/day = $1,400 - $2,100 annually

Tap water for drinking = approximately 0.001¢ per day = 51¢ annually (American Water Works Association)

More than 80 percent of plastic water bottles in the U.S. are incinerated or sent to landfills. Plasticdebris in the environment can take 40 - 1,000 years to break down. (Container Recycling Institute)

Scientists have run tests and consistently found that tap water is as good for the public as bottledwaters that cost 500 times more. (ABC News.go.com)

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Electronics Recycling

Tune-in to Digital TV Information!Don’t Trash that TV!In February 2009, television sets that rely on roof-top antennasor TV “rabbit ears” to receive free over-the-air programming will no longer receiveanalog signals with the switch to digital-only frequencies. Does that mean viewersshould dispose of their TVs? Absolutely not!

Users can keep their analog TV by purchasing a digital-to-analog converter box(approx. $70) with the assistance of the National Telecommunication andInformation Administration (NTIA). The NTIA is offering households up to twocoupons ($40 each) towards the purchase of a converter. This box will enableviewers to see additional programming that local stations offer.

Viewers with cable or satellite television service will not be affected by the switch.

DIGITAL TV INFORMATION• Federal Communications Commission • www.dtv.gov

• Digital-to-Analog Converter Box Coupon Program1-888-388-2009 (voice) • 1-877-530-2634 (TTY)www.dtv2009.gov

•Oregon DEQ Fact Sheet • www.oregon.gov/DEQ

ElectronicsAre you plugged in?According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Americans routinely replace their electronics every few years. When many people upgrade a computer, TV, or cell phone, they don’t feel right about putting these materials in the trash because they’ve invested their hard-earned money to purchase these products. Some electronics may be stored, while others are put in the trash. Get plugged in. Learn why these items should not be disposed, options forunwanted electronics, and which retailers participate in the EPA’s eCycle network.

WHY:

Protect – Electronic devices contain a number of materials;some valuable (gold or platinum), others hazardous (lead ormercury). Proper handling of electronics minimizes potentialnegative impacts on the environment.

Conserve – Valuable materials from old electronics can be usedto make new products, which reduce pollution and conservenatural resources.

Helps Others – Donating electronics in working order helpsbenefit those who need it, as well as creates recycling industryjobs and markets for the valuable, dismantled components.

OPTIONS:

Donate for Reuse – Contact local charities or refurbishers todetermine where to bring your used electronics and whatage/type of materials are accepted.

Recycle – Contact your local recycling center or Metro RecyclingInformation Center (503-234-3000) to learn about localcommunity programs or collection events.

LOG-ON:

www.EPA.gov/plugin – EPA’s eCycling Partners offer online andin-store take-back/trade-in programs and community recyclingevents.

www.RecycleWise.org – A partial listing of recycling depots inWashington County.

www.oregonmetro.gov/recycling – Metro Recycling Informationwebsite provides a comprehensive, interactive listing of Portlandrecyclers. Search “Find a Recycler” and indicate the type of material.

Craigslist, FreeCycle, and EBay websites – Place your item up forsale, trade, or donation.

Oregon Electronics Recycling ProgramLaunches January 1st!Does your New Year’s Resolution list include clearing the clutter from yourhome? If so, begin with recycling your electronics. Electronic waste (e-waste) is one of the fastest growing wastestreams worldwide. The OregonElectronics Recycling Law (ORS 459A.300-.365) creates and finances astatewide collection, transportation and recycling system. It offers residents free disposal options starting January 1, 2009 for covered electronic devices(CED) - desktop computers, portable computers, monitors and televisions.Other electronic devices, such as cell phones, fax machines, and printers arenot covered.

Oregon DEQ Electronics Recycling ProgramWho is eligible to use the recycling system?Households, businesses and not-for-profit organizations that employ 10 orfewer people, and anyone (including corporations) giving seven or fewercovered electronic devices (CEDs) to a collector at any one time may use theOregon Electronics Recycling Program free-of-charge. The program is notintended for large businesses, institutions, or governments, who often havetheir own asset management programs or procurement agreements thatinclude recycling.

How will I know where I can take my computer or television for recycling?Beginning January 1, 2009, if you purchase new coveredelectronics from retailers doing business in Oregon(including internet and catalog), the retailer mustgive you information about where you can takeyour electronics for recycling.Access this information from theDEQ electronics web page.

Keep in mind that someelectronics recyclingprograms may existoutside the OregonElectronics RecyclingProgram, and they will stillbe able to charge a fee to recyclee-waste and may take additional itemsnot covered under the Oregon Electronics Recycling Program, such as faxmachines, printers, and cell phones.

How can I be sure that my e-waste that is recycled in the Oregon ElectronicsRecycling Program does not get sent to China?Oregon state law does not prohibit e-waste from being exported to countrieslike China for processing, but it does require recyclers who handle e-waste andare participating in the new program to follow environmental managementpractices (EMPs) established by DEQ. EMPs will require recyclers todemonstrate that their programs do not harm the environment or human health.DEQ staff, with the help of an advisory work group, will develop the EMPsbefore the program begins in 2009.

For more information about participating manufacturers, retailers, timelines,resources, or contacts, please log on to Oregon DEQ’s Electronics (E-Waste)Recycling webpage:

www.deq.state.or.us/lq/electronics.htm

Recycle Compact FluorescentLights (CFLs) at Home Depot!

What should you do with old CFL bulbs that no longer emit light? Well, tossing

them into the trash can is not the answer. Recycle unbroken

CFLs at yourneighborhood Home Depot return desk. Home Depot will recyclethis material responsibly at no charge through a partnershipwith an environmental management firm. It’s important to recyclethese materials instead of discarding them because CFL bulbscontain mercury which can evaporate easily and travel longdistances in the atmosphere, posing health concerns for peopleand animals. Health risks associated with mercury includekidney damage and genetic, neurological, and psychologicaldisorders. Keep our community safe—recycle CFL bulbsresponsibly.

2009 Curbside Collection Calendarcontact your collector for your pick-up schedule

Residential Collection Services in Unincorporated Washington County

Collection Services by AreaOutside MSD (Rural) Inside MSD (Urban)

Garbage Collection Weekly Weekly Yard Debris Collection Not Available Every-Other-WeekRecycling - Rollcarts Not Available Every-Other-Week

Red Bins Monthly N/A

Washington County Unincorporated Residential Garbage Collection RatesMonthly Charge Rural Monthly Charge Urban

20-Gallon Container $17.32 $19.3932-Gallon Container $18.79 $21.1060-Gallon Container $28.20 $30.6290-Gallon Container $33.51 $36.21

Wilsonville

Sherwood

Durh am

Tualatin

King City

Tigard

Beaverton

Hillsboro

NorthPlains

CedarMillCornelius

Lake Oswego

Gaston

ForestGrove

Banks

DOES YOUR ADDRESS MAKE A DIFFERENCE?Yes. There is a different level of service for urbanneighborhoods inside the Metropolitan Service District (MSD) compared to rural areas outside of the MSD.

If you live within the MSD, your service includes weekly garbage and every-other-week recycling and yard debris collection.

If you reside outside the MSD, your service includes weekly garbage collection and monthly recycling. Rural residents do not receive yard debris collection at this time.

Clip & Save

My pick-up week isRecycling � GREEN � RED

Yard Debris � GREEN � RED

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7PLACE CONTAINER AT CURB BY 6:00 A.M.

Washington County

Recycles!

Roll Cart Recycling customers...Reuse your red bins to collect glass.

Contact your collection provider with questions. For recycling preparation instructions, log on to

www.RecycleWise.org

Washington County Cooperative Recycling Program

Got Glass?Got Glass?

Residential Yard DebrisIn Washington County, yard debris collection isincluded with garbage service rates and iscollected every-other-week on the same daygarbage is collected.* Call your hauler if you areunsure when your yard debris is picked up—ona green week or a red week. To help youremember which week to set your yard debris atthe curb, post this calendar in your kitchen,garage, or shed and mark your yard debris andrecycling collection days.

*City of Banks residents please note that yard debris is not collected on the same day as garbage service. Rural

residents do not receive yard debris ser vice as part of their rate.

ACCEPTED IN YARD DEBRIS CONTAINERS:

• Leaves • Weeds

• Grass clippings • Branches

• Garden waste

• Prunings no greater than 4" in diameter and 36" long

NOT ACCEPTED IN YARD DEBRIS CONTAINERS:

• Plastic bags • Metal

• Garbage • Stumps

• Food waste • Animal waste

• Plastic or wire ties • Lumber

• Dirt, sod, or rock • Ashes

• Garden vegetables and fruit

Maximum container weight:

• 100 lbs for 60-gallon container or larger

• 60 lbs for 32-gallon container

• 45 lbs for 30-gallon container

• 45 lbs for bags or bundles

BACKYARD COMPOSTING & RECYCLING LITERATURE RESOURCES:

Metro Recycling Informationwww.oregonmetro.gov/recycling

(503) 234-3000

Washington County Cooperative Recycling Program

www.RecycleWise.org(503) 846-8609

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Drop-off DepotsPlease call ahead for a full list of materials accepted, operating hours, and any applicable charges. Spotlight on:

REUSEThe three R’s (reduce, reuse, and recycle) are the core steps to conserve natural resources and energy. While “reduce” is the mostimportant action people can undertake,“reuse” is the next. Instead of recyclingan item, consider first how it can bereused. Reusing materials bound forrecycling or trash cans can conservethe energy and natural resourcesnecessary to manufacture newproducts. Here are five examples ofReuse:

• Donate, sell, or trade unwanted items

• Search thrift stores for gently-used items with lots of useful life remaining

• Reuse an old item for a new purpose

• Consider joining a Freecycle network in your area (www.freecycle.org) or visit www.craigslist.com to find treasures or offer up unwanted items for cash/trade

• Maintain or repair household goods, rather than replacing with new

WHY REUSE?Reusing materials limits the amount ofnew resources needed to manufactureproducts. Explore what other uses anitem may have before the product isdiscarded or recycled.

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= no charge ($) = recycled for fee � = depot accepts other materials

Aloha Garbage Company (503) 649-6727

Banks Recycling Depot (2nd Sat. only) (503) 324-0230

Far West Fibers, Beaverton & Hillsboro(503) 643-9944

Pride Disposal, Sherwood (503) 625-6177

Willamette Resources Industry, Wilsonville(503) 570-0626

Forest Grove Transfer Station (503) 992-1212

Tualatin Valley Waste Recovery/Hillsboro Landfill (503) 640-9427

Metro Transfer Stations/Recycling InfoPortland & Oregon City (503) 234-3000

Best Buy In Town, Hillsboro (503) 645-2275

Grimms Fuel Company, Tualatin (503) 692-3756

Landscape Products & Supply, Hillsboro(503) 846-0881

Nature’s Needs, North Plains (503) 647-9489

Northwest Environmental Recycling, Cornelius(503) 357-6090

Woodco, Aloha (503) 649-5430

Aloha Garbage and Recycling, Aloha (503) 649-6727Accepts printers, scanners, monitors, computers, TVs, DVD & VCR players, cell phones, cameras, batteries, ink cartridges, and microwave ovens.

Computer Drive Connection, (503) 992-0180Computers, monitors, hard/floppy drives, printers, typewriters, modems, circuit boards, mainframes, ink jet & toner cartridges, cell phones, radios and VCRs

Earth Protection Services Inc. (EPSI), Tigard (503) 620-2466Electronics, computers, monitors, TVs, batteries, fluorescent lamps, lighting ballasts, mercury thermostats.

E-tech Recycling, (503) 693-8939Computers/servers, monitors, printers, cell/telephones, fax machines, TVs/VCRs/MP3s. NO MICROWAVES.

Far West Fibers, Hillsboro & Beaverton (503) 643-9944 Accepts printers, scanners, monitors, computers, TVs, DVD & VCR players, and microwave ovens.

Pride Disposal, Sherwood (503) 625-6177Accepts printers, scanners, monitors, computers, TVs, VCR players, cell phones, household/auto batteries, ink/toner cartridges, microwave ovens, fax/copier, and fluorescent bulbs.

Quantum Resource Recovery, Beaverton (503) 646-2427 Accepts scanners, computers, printers, telephones, cell phones, VCRs, radios, and computer wiring.

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P l e a s e k e e p o r r e c y c l e t h i s n e w s l e t t e r w h e n y o u a r e f i n i s h e d .

* Paper - Includes newspaper, magazines, scrap paper, office paper, phone books, and shredded paper.

** Metals - Includes aluminum, tin cans, scrap metals, and foil.*** Appliances - Please call ahead regarding refrigerated

appliances.**** Wood - No treated or hardwood accepted.

= no charge

($) = recycled for fee

� = depot accepts other materials

KEY

CURBSIDE TREE RECYCLING COLLECTIONAloha – Banks – Beaverton – CorneliusDurham – Forest Grove – Hillsboro – King City North Plains – Sherwood – Tigard – Tualatin Urban Unincorporated

Tree must be at curb by 6:00 a.m. on theregular yard debris day and counts as thatweek’s yard debris. Additional yard debriscan be set out with the tree for a fee.

Preparation Instructions:• Cut trees into lengths less than 6 feet

and able to fit into the yard debris container and fall freely when tipped. No tinsel, stands, ornaments, or other added materials.

• Wreaths - Remove metal, wire, frames, and any non-plant material.

• Call your hauler regarding flocked trees.

Rural Unincorporated

No yard debris program is established.Residents may use yard debris depots ornon-profits to recycle trees. Ask yourhauler if they will accommodate a holidaytree or pick up for a fee.

Contact your garbage hauler, WashingtonCounty Cooperative Recycling Program, orMetro’s Recycling Information Center at (503) 234-3000 with tree recycling questions.

CURBSIDE TREE RECYCLING COLLECTION

WINTER WEATHER COLLECTION POLICYAs Winter weather approaches, it’s a great time to remind readers about Washington County’sInclement Weather Collection Policy related to garbage and recycling.

If schools are closed, solid waste (garbage) and recycling (including yard debris) collection can becancelled. Collection will be made up the following day. If adverse weather conditions persist(schools are closed) for more than one consecutive day, customers will receive service thefollowing week, on their regularly scheduled collection day.

Contact your hauler or Washington County Solid Waste and Recycling at (503) 846-8609 withquestions about service during inclement weather.

HOLIDAY COLLECTION SCHEDULESWinter holidays can impact customer garbage and recyclingcollection schedules during holiday weeks. Typically collectioncompanies shift pick-up to the day following the holiday. If aholiday falls on Wednesday, those customers will have their pick-up on Thursday. Thursday customers will receive service Fridayand so on.

If you have questions about your holiday collection schedule,contact your service provider, view their website for collectionpolicies/schedules, or watch for announcements on billingstatements or in newsletters.