Tuesday, Nov. 15 is America Recycles Day, a day to recognize the importance and impact of recycling. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the recycling rate has increased from less than seven percent in 1960 to the current rate of 32 percent. Johnson County offers several ways to help residents and businesses in the community recycle.

Green Business Program

Johnson County’s Environmental Division can help residents and businesses take the necessary steps to become more sustainable. The Green Business Program was created to help businesses like restaurants, schools, retail or manufacturers go green. Businesses can apply for up to $500 to use for recycling bins, signs and other supplies. The first step is scheduling a free sustainability consultation.

In addition to sustainability consulting, the county also recognizes local business participating in green practices. Johnson County’s Green Business Program provides free educational outreach and technical assistance on a variety of environmental management practices to businesses throughout Johnson County. JCGBP also recognizes organizations that have made a commitment to the environment and our community.

Businesses can reap the economic and environmental benefits of sustainable practices by obtaining certification. Learn more about free sustainability consultations, JCGBP and how to become certified as a JCGBP partner.

Recycling 101

Johnson County also provides tips on recycling basics to ensure recycling efforts don’t go to waste. Johnson County Department of Health and Environment partnered with Waste Management and Bridging The Gap to conduct an in-depth sort at the recycling facility in 2018 and 2019. The goal was to look at what materials residents are putting in their recycling bins that can and cannot be recycled. Results revealed around 26% of what residents are putting in their recycling bin is not recyclable curbside. Learn more about Recycling 101.

Household Hazardous Waste

Johnson County residents can safely dispose of their old or unwanted paint, stain, yard chemicals and other household hazardous waste by appointment only at the Johnson County Household Hazardous Waste facility.

Recycle Right Educational Campaign

Johnson County Department of Health and Environment’s “Recycle Right” campaign provides direct feedback to residents about the materials that shouldn’t be in recycle bins. This could include glass, which can be recycled elsewhere, or Styrofoam, which belongs in the trash. By recycling the right way and keeping trash and non-recyclables out of recycle bins, we can all play a part in conserving resources and protecting our environment.

Podcast

On the latest episode of the JoCo on the Go podcast, we look at recycling in Johnson County in honor of America Recycles Day on Tuesday, Nov. 15.  You’ll hear what the county is doing to help people reduce the amount of trash that goes into the waste stream and learn more about some of the services and programs mentioned above. Please join us as experts from the county’s Department of Health and Environment talk all things recycling.

For more information on sustainability programs in Johnson County visit the Environmental Division's webpage.