4R Times
Fall Newsletter
Volume V | Issue III
ReBusiness Gets a Reboot
Since 2008, The Tompkins County ReBusiness Partners program has supported over 250 Tompkins County
businesses and organizations with reducing waste and saving money through 4R (reduce, reuse, recycle, and rebuy) practices. The program has now been updated to meet the ever-evolving needs of businesses of all sizes and allow for remote consultations in light of the coronavirus pandemic.

“Becoming a ReBusiness Partner starts with completing a waste assessment and receiving assistance to streamline waste handling, examine reuse practices, and codify green purchasing” said Nancy Webster, Waste Reduction and Recycling Specialist. “Staff will help businesses address any waste management headaches at their business, acquire bins and signage, and implement a uniform recycling system throughout their location.” New ReBusiness Partners will also be featured on the Department of Recycling and Materials Management’s website and social media platforms in recognition of joining the program.

Interested businesses should inquire about the program using the Contact Us page at recycletompkins.org or calling the Recycling and Materials Management office at (607) 273-6632. Visit RecycleTompkins.org/ReBusiness to learn more.

‌
Take the Recycling Center Survey
The Tompkins County Department of Recycling and Materials Management has created a short survey to collect feedback from users of the Recycling and Solid Waste Center. The survey is hosted using POLCO, an online civic engagement platform. It takes less than five minutes to complete, and results will be used to improve services at the facility.
 
To respond to the survey, visit polco.us/s597c9 on an internet-connected computer or mobile device. Users will be required to quickly and easily create a POLCO account, which helps to ensure the accuracy of the survey. For users without access to the internet, paper surveys will be made available at the Recycling and Solid Waste Center information kiosk and in the Recycling and Materials Management office. The survey period has already begun, and ends on October 15th. Please take a few moments of your time to share your feedback.
Get Your Punch Cards in the Mail
Did you know that you can buy trash disposal punch cards and coupons, solid waste permits, and more without leaving your home? RecycleTompkins.org has a Shop Online feature that residents can use to purchase disposal punch cards and coupons, yard waste punch cards and coupons, and solid waste permits. Purchased items are then sent by mail. To start, go to RecycleTompkins.org using an up-to-date browser and click “Shop Online” on the top right of the page. Mobile users can select this feature from the drop down menu on the right side of the screen.
Two HHW Events Left In 2020
So far, 2020 has turned out to be a good year for Household Hazardous Waste collection, with two more events scheduled before the end of the year. More than 800 households participated in the first four events, disposing of large amounts of hazardous materials like paint and pesticides in an
environmentally responsible manner.

There are just two more Household Hazardous Waste drop-off events
scheduled to take place before the end of the year, on October 17th and
November 21st. A valid solid waste permit and appointment are required to
attend. Learn more and sign up at recycletompkins.org/hhw

Please Wear Masks
We’d like to remind users of the Recycling and Solid Waste Center, Food Scraps Recycling Drop Spots, and our office that masks covering both the mouth and nose must be worn at all times. A simple cloth face mask helps prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus by people who may be contagious but do not know it yet. In the words of Tompkins County Public Health Director Frank Kruppa, “My mask protects you, your mask protects me.”
Food Scrap Caddies are Free
Kitchen caddies and compostable liners for the Food Scraps Recycling Drop Spot program are free for County residents—stop by a drop spot to get yours! Transport containers are also available for $12 from the Recycling and Materials Management office.
Holiday Closings
Indigenous Peoples' Day

Office closed October 12th.


Veterans Day

Office closed October 12th.

Thanksgiving Day

Office closed November 26th and 27th.
Recycling and Solid Waste Center closed November 26th.
No curbside collection November 26th, one day delay for remainder of week.
 
The Find My Recycling Day tool automatically adjusts for holidays--sign up today!
HHW Events



Upcoming Household Hazardous
Waste Drop Off Events:


October 17th


November 21st


Sign up for an appointment at recycletompkins.org


Masks required.


Did You Know...
 
Recalled hand sanitizer should be brought to Household
Hazardous Waste events.

Tompkins County Recycling and Materials Management
(607) 273-6632 | reducewaste@tompkins-co.org | recycletompkins.org