The Littleton Transfer Station buzzed with an extra dose of positive energy on a recent Tuesday, as two NH Recycles representatives hosted a "Recycle Rights Rewards" event aimed at "catching" residents in the act of recycling correctly and rewarding them for their efforts. The initiative - part of the ongoing Recycle Right North Country campaign - and designed to educate and incentivize proper recycling behavior, was met with a mix of surprise, gratitude, and a healthy dose of curiosity from local residents.
NH Recycles' Member Services Director, Brian Patnoe, and Municipal Recycling Advisor, Steve Bean, initially set up a table with clear signage to welcome residents with recycling questions. The plan was for Brian to field questions at the table while Steve engaged with residents at the recycling sorting tables, observing their methods and directing them to the main station for rewards and further discussion. However, they quickly realized that a more direct approach was needed to foster genuine interaction.
"People were a little reluctant to go to the table," Steve noted. "We switched it up, and it was much better if we were both in the sorting table area so we could see the people who were recycling correctly and give the rewards while also answering questions that they had." This revised strategy proved highly effective, allowing them to provide on-the-spot corrections and praise. By being directly in the sorting area, they could observe what residents were recycling and immediately address any confusion, creating a more dynamic and educational experience.
The event provided a valuable opportunity to address common recycling questions. A breakdown of the most commonly asked questions shows that residents' biggest points of confusion centered around:
- Plastics: Many residents were unsure about which types of plastics are accepted, what the numbers on the containers mean, and whether they need to be rinsed.
- Batteries: The proper disposal of household batteries, especially rechargeable and lithium-ion types, was a frequent topic, highlighting the importance of keeping them out of the regular waste stream due to fire hazards.
- Hazardous Waste: Residents sought clarification on how to handle items like paint, chemicals, and other household hazardous waste that are not accepted in standard recycling.
- Other: This category included a variety of unique items, reflecting the diverse challenges of waste disposal.
- Paper and Cans: While generally straightforward, these questions highlighted the occasional need for clarification on specific types of paper or metal containers.
The highlight of the event for many residents was the surprise of receiving a $50 gift card to a local business as a reward for their "Recycling Right" efforts. Residents were "very pleased and surprised," often expressing their gratitude for the unexpected reward. The initiative not only encouraged proper recycling but also provided a boost to Littleton's local economy by driving business to community establishments.
Brian and Steve also heard praise throughout the day for the staff at the Littleton Transfer Station. As Steve noted, "We were told many times that the Transfer Station crew in Littleton were very good at answering recycling questions that pop up. Kudos to them!" This recognition underscores the ongoing commitment of the local transfer station team to educating the public and maintaining high standards for the town's recycling program.
In summary, the "Recycle Rights Rewards" Littleton event was a successful demonstration of how a community-focused, hands-on approach can effectively promote recycling through positive reinforcement. By directly engaging with residents, answering their specific questions, and providing tangible rewards, the event not only improved recycling accuracy but also strengthened community ties and supported local businesses. Thank you, Littleton, for recycling right!
- EPA disclaimer: This project has been funded wholly or in part by the United States Environmental Protection Agency under assistance agreement 4Y-84078701 to NH Recycles. The contents of this project do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the EPA.
