West Plains reminds residents of recycling program

On April 30, 1990, the City of West Plains implemented a curbside recycling program. The idea was to make recycling easy and convenient. After a short suspension (7/29/21 – 8/6/21), due to staffing difficulties, the program is back up and running.
“We just want to thank everyone for their patience and understanding,” said Supervisor Brent Lidgard.
Recycling is offered to residents of West Plains free of charge. The city provides red recycling bins to utility customers, along with free curbside collection and access to a recycling drop off center free of charge for anyone wishing to participate outside the city limits.

Approximately 75% of trash Americans throw away each week is recyclable, yet only 25% is actually recycled. When recycling happens products that would normally be discarded are broken down and turned into something valuable. They receive a second life and landfills are spared the waste. With the amount of waste already in landfills, the problem may seem larger than any individual could solve, but small recycling efforts do make a significant impact.
Citizens are asked to separate recyclables into six categories: glass, aluminum, tin cans, number 1 and 2 plastics, paper and cardboard. There is also commercial recycling available for cardboard.
To participate in the recycling program, call the West Plains Sanitation Department at 417-255-2330.