(Publisher’s note: The spring clean-up day is May 17. This information has been corrected in this story.)
With the Western Washtenaw Recycling Authority (WWRA) spring clean-up day right around the corner on Saturday, May 17, WWRA is asking for volunteers.
For clean-up day to run smoothly, many volunteers are needed. Anyone interested in volunteering can call the WWRA at 475-6160.
WWRA has approved $3,500 to construct a partial covering structure for the recycling bins outside the facility on Werkner Road. This will cut down on the amount of debris that blows out along the road from the bins on windy days. Vinyl strip doors will also be installed at the facility to cut down on wind-blown debris.
In a continuing effort to provide information about what can and can’t be recycled, here’s something to consider.
Residents have asked what constitutes waxed cardboard, and if items such as cereal boxes, milk cartons or juice boxes can be recycled.
What Is “Waxy Cardboard,” Anyway?
Waxy cardboard refers to cardboard that has been coated with a layer of wax to prevent things like germ or mold contamination and insect infestation. Wax coating on cardboard also helps to prevent leaks or the seeping of oils.
You can tell if you have waxy cardboard by running your fingernail along the coated or shiny surface. If you have waxed cardboard, the wax will peel off where you’ve scratched the surface.
Don’t Confuse Waxy with Glossy
Waxy cardboard is mainly used for things like produce boxes that are delivered to places like grocery stores and restaurants. But, it is not likely that you will have a lot of waxy cardboard on hand despite people confusing waxy cardboard with glossy cardboard or paper.
Glossy material can and should be recycled.
You can try this for yourself.
Go to Polly’s and run your nail over the milk cartons. Most, if not all, will not put wax under your nail and they can now be recycled.
Mostly, the issue is with large meat boxes, which have a heavy saturated wax coating on them to keep blood and juices inside.
So, remember, if you cannot scrape off obvious wax, it can be recycled.
