Hempstead Town Distributes New Recycling Containers

Hempstead Town has began to administer new recycling containers to all town residents for immediate use.

This new 25-gallon recycling container is larger than the current bin provided to residents. The switch was made due to research that indicates larger receptacles result in an increase in the amount of recyclables collected, according to the town.

The new containers can be used for cans, bottles and other glass, plastic and metal items. The town has asked that residents retain their old recycling container and use it for newspaper, cardboard and other paper products.

"Curbside recycling is part of this planet-friendly agenda, and people like you have helped us achieve one of the highest recycling participation rates anywhere," Town Supervisor Kate Murray said in a release. "In an effort to build upon our past successes, we are pleased to provide you with this new recycling container. It is recommended that you identify your new container and cover with your address."

The town has also added to the amount of recyclables it will now accept. The added items include box board, (cereal, pasta & other food boxes), index cards, white telephone books (not yellow) and pizza boxes.

Residents on sanitation routes in Levittown, Bellmore Wantagh and Seaford were the first to receive the containers, however, not every town will get the new containers this year.