JBLM Sustainability

What do I do with all this packaging material?

By Cathy Hamilton-Wissmer, Directorate of Public Works

Many of us are buying more and more products on-line, add that to the moving from one base to another, and the question comes up- what do I do with all of this packaging material?

Consider reuse as the first option. Think about ways you can reuse any of the material that came with your recent purchase. Did it come with cornstarch pellets? Kids love to make recycled art with those colored squishy pellets. You can lick & stick them together or put on a piece of construction paper for some recycled art.

Recycling can be confusing but in essence it is about supply and demand. Technically, almost everything is recyclable. However, it does not mean that there is a manufacturer that wants to buy and make it into something new. For example, the price of oil, which is used to make many different kinds of plastics, is now very low. For that reason the price manufacturers will pay for plastics collected for recycling has also dropped. So there are fewer plastic items being recycled. Deli containers, clamshell-style containers and drink cups go in the trash whereas plastic bottles, yogurt cups, and detergent jugs can go in your recycling cart. Just remember no lids, and make sure the container is empty, clean and dry! Cardboard boxes can be recycled in the gray recycling bin for pickup. Residents can also deposit the boxes & packing material with support from Lincoln-Military Housing. Keep it in mind for your next move!

While Bubble wrap is not recyclable on JBLM, you can always return it directly to Sealed Air. See their website for instructions: https://sealedair.com/product-care/recycling-bubble-wrap-plastic-paper-foam-packaging.

Remember NO plastic bags, Styrofoam, or molded foam in your curbside recycling bin. They are not recyclable on JBLM. Please put in your garbage can. When in doubt, throw it out!

What if you have too much recycling to fit in your curbside container? Want to recycle glass or other specific items, or need to make a dump run? You have options! Call ahead to verify hours & requirements.

Where: Hidden Valley Transfer, Recycling & Compost Station When: Monday-Sunday: 8 AM to 5:45 PM Phone: (253) 847-7555 Location: 17925 MERIDIAN STREET E. PUYALLUP, WA, 98373 Website: https://www.lriservices.com/lri-hidden-valley

Where: Tacoma Landfill & Recycling Center When: Facility Hours: Monday-Sunday: 8 AM-5:30 PM Phone: (253) 502-2100