Jefferson Parish residents must mark their calendars and empty their bins one last time before a brief suspension of recycling services takes hold. Today is the final day for drop-off recycling in the area, according to an announcement on the Jefferson Parish website. The interruption comes as the parish awaits the finalization of a new contract, expected to be in place sometime in March.
Enthusiasts of sustainability and environmental responsibility should note that the drop-off locations—700 David Drive and 6440 Lapalco Boulevard, both in Marrero—will operate between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m for their final hoorah, During this period, residents can bring their glass bottles and jars provided they aren't mirrors or broken glass, no ceramics or pottery will be accepted; cardboard; cans made of aluminum, tin, or steel; plastics numbered 1 and 2, such as soda, water, milk, juice, shampoo, and detergent containers; and mixed paper are the materials being collected with support from Glass Half Full and Ramelli.
Guidelines for success in this limited-time engagement are succinct. Residents are asked to recycle only the items listed above and to contact the Jefferson Parish Department of Environmental Affairs with any doubts about other materials. To avoid contaminations that could derail the entire process, cleanliness is championed—metals and plastics used to store food should be rinsed free of any residue, while anything too sullied, like greasy pizza boxes or soiled take-out containers, should find their end in the garbage.
In addition, residents are reminded not to bag their recyclables but to instead toss them directly into the bins as thin plastic bags can clog the mechanics of recycling sorters—these types of plastics need to be taken to most grocery stores which sponsor an alternative recycling process. Lastly, making efficient use of space is encouraged, breaking down boxes and crushing cans allows for more material to fit within the bin, ensures the material's onward journey from the drop-off point progresses as smooth as can be, this simple act of compaction could be the difference between an efficiently processed batch of recyclables and a logistical headache.
