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By the Sustainability & Resilience Committee
A New Year’s Resolution for a Cleaner and More Sustainable Surfside
The holiday season often leaves us with abundant packaging, decorations, and other materials that must be managed properly. As we start a new year, let’s commit to recycling “right” and reducing waste throughout 2025. Proper recycling helps safeguard our environment and reduces costs for our community. Here’s how you can do your part.
The Scale of the Problem
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), over 292 million tons of municipal solid waste are generated in the United States every year, which equates to nearly five (5) pounds per person per day. Shockingly, only 32% of this waste is actually recycled, with the rest combusted or disposed of in a landfill, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. Globally, waste accounts for about 3-5% of total greenhouse gas emissions, and our country is one of the most significant contributors. (Source: EPA - Facts and Figures about Materials, Waste and Recycling)
Recycling incorrectly or not at all adds to this problem, as contaminated or misplaced materials can disrupt recycling processes, leading to more waste and higher costs. However, when our communities come together, we can make a real difference in reducing this impact.
What Can Be Recycled Curbside in Surfside?
Every Thursday, Surfside collects residential recyclables curbside. Accepted materials include:
• Office Paper: Clean and dry.
• Cardboard: Flattened and free of food residue.
• Plastic Containers/Bottles: Only those with a neck smaller than the body.
• Aseptic Containers: Examples include milk and juice cartons. Clean and dry.
• Glass Bottles: Rinse and remove caps.
• Metal Containers: Clean and free of food residue.
These materials are processed at the Reuter Recycling Facility in Pembroke Pines, ensuring they are correctly processed and repurposed.
What About Special Items?
Some items require extra care but can still be recycled responsibly:
• Plastic Shopping Bags: Recycle these at designated bins in Publix stores.
• Batteries and Electronic Waste: Drop these off at Town Hall for proper recycling.
• Sensitive Documents and Medications: Participate in Surfside’s Paper Shred-a-Thon and Drug Takeback events. Sign up for Town alerts to stay informed.
Reduce Waste at the Source
While recycling is essential, reducing waste is even better. Here are a few ways to cut down on waste:
• Opt Out of Junk Mail: Use the Federal Trade Commission’s guide to stop unwanted mailings. Visit this link for easy instructions.
• Reuse Before Recycling: Repurpose jars, containers, and even holiday gift wrap.
Recycling is a shared responsibility that starts with each of us. By recycling correctly and reducing waste consistently, we can significantly lower the amount of solid waste sent to landfills, reduce harmful emissions, and conserve valuable resources. When multiplied across our Surfside community, small actions lead to powerful results, creating a cleaner, healthier environment for present and future generations. Recycling right not only reduces contamination and costs but also reflects our commitment to our only home, the planet. Together, we can reverse harmful trends and make a meaningful impact.
Can we count on you to join us in making a difference this year?
Join Us!
Surfside invites all residents to attend our monthly Sustainability Committee meetings, where your suggestions and ideas are always welcome. Our next meeting is on January 16th at noon at Town Hall. Let’s make 2025 the year we come together as a community to reduce waste and recycle responsibly.
Together, we can make Surfside cleaner and greener—starting today!