Impressive recycling news -- the county continues to recycle its garbage at a rate far exceeding the national goal of 35 percent set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The municipal recycling rate – which reflects mainly residential recycling – was 51 percent in 2008, up from 48 percent the year before.

Recycling is the law for residents, businesses and schools alike in Westchester County. The amended recycling law of 1992 took effect Dec. 10, 2008 making it mandatory for all business and institutions in the county to recycle. Larger businesses and institutions are now also required to file a solid waste disposal and recycling plan with the county every three years, starting with the first deadline of April 30, 2009.

The county's expanded collection of used vegetable oil to turn it into biodeisel to fuel county vehicles has been a great success. Area restaurants and food establishments have so enthusiastically signed up for the county's collection service that now the county is at capacity and will begin placing new requests on a waiting list. We encourage you to sign up, however, so you don't miss out when new collections can be handled. As a clean burning alternative fuel, biodiesel has demonstrated significant environmental benefits in that it reduces net carbon dioxide emissions by 78 percent compared to petroleum diesel. Bottom line, using biodiesel is a good strategy to mitigating greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming.

Read the Quick Recycling Guide to learn how to separate recyclables for curbside collection. Besides curbside recycling of paper, glass, metal and plastic, you can bring other items for disposal at free county-organized recycling events. We're now able to accept plastic bags for recycling and old or expired medications for disposal at these events.