This week, Brooklyn Park residents are reminded to participate in Recycling Week, set for January 12-16. According to information from the City of Brooklyn Park, folks should have their recycling carts out by the curb before the early hour of 6:30 a.m. City crews have a full day's work and are expected to finish their rounds by 6 p.m., so early risers have the upper hand in ensuring their recyclables get picked up on time.
When prepping your carts for pickup, keep in mind to maintain a clear space of at least three feet from any obstacles, be it another cart or a pesky mailbox. It's recommended to place them either in your driveway or on the boulevard, making sure that the handle faces the right way – away from the street. The city instructs to never put your carts in the street, a move that's both unsafe and counterproductive.
There are a few specific instructions on how to properly dispose of your recyclables. As stated by the City of Brooklyn Park, "Have material loose in your cart, never in bags." Plastic bags are a no-go, as they'll simply be trashed at the sorting facility without being opened. Even paper bags can cause issues, as they too can get stuck during compaction in the truck, making it impossible to properly sort later on in the process.
To make recycling even more accessible, the city is introducing the Brooklyn Park HRG Recycling app, entirely aimed to make the recycling process as seamless as possible. A key feature is a searchable database, incredibly useful to figure out exactly what can and cannot be recycled. This app isn't just a one-language wonder; it boasts availability in English, French, Russian, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Residents looking to download the app can do so here.
As recycling week unfolds, residents are encouraged to embrace the opportunity to improve their recycling habits. It’s a chance to start the year off on a good foot, bearing in mind the importance of adherence to guidelines. With proper sorting and timely placement, the community can collectively make a significant impact on the city’s sustainability efforts.
