Recycling in Walton County

[Smiling JOe]

I'll agree with that - but me recycling is better than me not recycling. Gotta start somehwere...

Absolutely. We each have to start somewhere, but we need to think about the many renters who really don't have much input in local recycling management. I wonder how much more garbage is produced in the high rental season compared to the off-season. I bet it would come close to doubling, if not more, or off season garbage. Including the renters is vital, and yes, locals are, too.

 

[John R]

the bummer is that the rental units will be the last ones to actually get on board with a recycling program. Educating renters, having room attendants recycle, having owners of rental units provide for recycling bins, etc is going to be a long way off. sad but true.

 

[Smiling JOe]

I'm not sure about that. Many visitors to our beach, already recycle at home. Whatever system we take, it needs to be kept simple so that all tourists feel confident in knowing the procedure for recycling. Even guests who do not recycle at home due to lack of recycling programs, may take interest in the good behavior when at the beach.

 

[savvytangerine]

Absolutely. We each have to start somewhere, but we need to think about the many renters who really don't have much input in local recycling management. I wonder how much more garbage is produced in the high rental season compared to the off-season. I bet it would come close to doubling, if not more, or off season garbage. Including the renters is vital, and yes, locals are, too.

I think baby steps in the right direction - are better than no steps. I just am very happy that people are seriously talking about this, and what can be done to make the system better. I would love it if we as a group, could brainstorm a little and start some sort of Sowal mission.

Does anyone have any ideas on what a good baby step could be?

 

[scooterbug44]

I think a good first step would be to research what other similar communities do in their recycling programs so we aren't reinventing the wheel.

Also, we should get a good handle on what is going on with the current trash/recycling monies in the budget shell game.

Quick question (as it's on today's to-do list):
Are the blue bags a complete non-entity now? Do I have to take it to the trailer instead of putting it in the blue bag & in the trash can if I want it recycled?

 

[Jdarg]

I think baby steps in the right direction - are better than no steps. I just am very happy that people are seriously talking about this, and what can be done to make the system better. I would love it if we as a group, could brainstorm a little and start some sort of Sowal mission.

Does anyone have any ideas on what a good baby step could be?

I think the "baby step" was the blue bag program.

The next logical step is a real recycling program, with a recycling bin for each household, and a recycling truck that runs on different days than regular garbage pickup. I have lived in places where it was a regular city service, and places where you had to pay and add it on to your garbage pickup.

 

[NotDeadYet]

Also, we should get a good handle on what is going on with the current trash/recycling monies in the budget shell game.

I think finding this out is the next logical step, and may well determine what choices exist for a real recycling program. I really think the money is probably there, somewhere there, that is.

I agree with SJ that the tourists might just get on board, at least that is if the rental agencies don't resist. Lots of people come here from somewhere that has recycling. It isn't exactly a new concept. I have had people on the beach tell me they are surprised we don't already have it.

Any volunteers to try to untangle the trash budget?

 

[hnooe]

I'm not sure about that. Many visitors to our beach, already recycle at home. Whatever system we take, it needs to be kept simple so that all tourists feel confident in knowing the procedure for recycling. Even guests who do not recycle at home due to lack of recycling programs, may take interest in the good behavior when at the beach.

And that is a perfect win/win situation!

 

[Matt J]

Some areas could take a large step in the right direction and require recycling. Places like WaterColor/Watersound/Seacrest could all band together and thru the HOA's require recycling. I know Seacrest already has there staff go around and pull out and put away trash cans. Is this a futile idea?

 

[savvytangerine]

I think finding this out is the next logical step, and may well determine what choices exist for a real recycling program. I really think the money is probably there, somewhere there, that is.

I agree with SJ that the tourists might just get on board, at least that is if the rental agencies don't resist. Lots of people come here from somewhere that has recycling. It isn't exactly a new concept. I have had people on the beach tell me they are surprised we don't already have it.

Any volunteers to try to untangle the trash budget?

Thanks for the idea. How would one get a hold of this information to begin with?

I'm a little out of my element with this, but willing to learn.