Remember recycling during the holidays

Floyd Marshall, left, and Paul Belcher are two of the volunteers accepting electronics for recycling in town. The bin for recycling is across from the Station Arts Centre. (Jeff Helsdon Photo)

Jeff Helsdon, Editor

Christmas it a time of joy, and the excitement on children’s faces with opening new gifts, but, with it comes waste of many different types.

Most obvious is gift wrap and excess packaging. Wrapping paper can be recycled, but foil-based wrapping paper should be put in the garbage. All ribbons and bows should be removed. Consider saving these and reusing next year.

In Tillsonburg, electronics can be recycled through the bin across from the Station Arts Centre. All sorts of electronic items can be recycled, including televisions, computer monitors, electronic toys and stereos. LED Christmas lights can be recycled, as can light fixtures, but light bulbs cannot be. Items can be left on a table beside the bin, or there are volunteers on site on Saturday mornings.

Proceeds from the recycling are split between the Station Arts Centre and programs supports by St. Paul’s United Church, including the Helping Hand Food Bank, Upper Deck Youth Centre and Community Kitchen.

Batteries can be recycled at several locations in Tillsonburg. Batteries should not be disposed of in household waste. Batteries can also be recycled at the hazard waste depot at the Oxford County Waste Management Facility.

Bulky Styrofoam, which is often used in packaging electronics and gifts, can be recycled for free at the Tillsonburg Transfer Station.

Waste collection date planned for Christmas day, such as in the Township of Norwich, will be rescheduled for Saturday, Dec. 27.