Proposed trash pickup system

what sux is that my one trashcan is just about spent - it's literally held together with duct tape, and you have to lift it just right...

BUT - I cant replace it, because as soon as I do they'll dole out those big new ones and I'll end up with a brand spankin new garbage can with no use

I have been wanting to start a compost bin and a rain water collection system. Guess I can use the old cans for that.

I think they are recyclable -- read somewhere we are supposed to put them out with recycling marked with a note that says "TAKE ME".

Billy, I thought they already gave out the new bins???

Is everyone supposed to get the new garbage cans, or is this only in select neighborhoods?

“ Can they be recycled, too? ”

Probably. Check the bottom for the recycling mark. Contact the manufacturer if not.

BUT ... before you do, ask yourself why you're getting rid of it. Often people find themselves not having enough trash cans. Why not then just keep the smaller ones in the garage or shed, and periodically use them to dump into the larger, city-provided one?

If not that, then try composting with it. Cut some 1/2" holes into the body of the can to allow the vegetable matter to get air during the decomposition process.

If not that, then give it away to a neighbor who can use it.

But don't just toss the can back into the raw-material stream. It took energy to get it to that form and deliver it to you. If it can be saved by just taking it a couple of houses over, then why not do that instead? The most relevant action of recycling is to get the still-finished item into the hands of somebody who can use it.

Ours have come in handy during BBQs and parties in the yard.