Green Thoughts: Let’s talk about Number 1 and Number 2

Green Thoughts is brought to you by the Town of Shelter Island Green Options Committee

Talking publicly about Number 1 and Number 2 can be a little taboo, but it’s obligatory when you live surrounded by water.

It’s critical to recycle on Shelter Island, and to be able to discern what’s recyclable and what’s not. Ensuring that toxins stays out of waterways is imperative. For these reasons, we ask that you please make sure that you’re only recycling plastics Number 1 and Number 2. You’ll find the numbers stamped on the bottom or side of the containers.

And be sure that plastics for recycling are cleaned out properly and placed in the correct bins. Dirty recyclables are not accepted, and end up back in the trash, wasting time and effort. So please, only deposit clean and dry Number 1 and Number 2 plastics.

Moreover, take the time to make yourself aware of what type of plastic you’re buying, and try to adapt to using only those plastics that can be recycled. Other small changes can make a big difference, too. Consider using biodegradable dog waste bags for those beach walks, packing reusable lunch containers for work or school, and becoming a more conscious consumer. We may be a small Island, but we’ve got big green dreams!

Takeaways:

  • – Recycle only clean and dry 1 and 2 plastics 
  • – Be more aware of food packaging
    – Use biodegradable dog waste bags 
  • – Pack reusable lunch containers
    – Dream big!

For more information, visit the Town of Shelter Island Recycling Center webpage.


Green Thoughts is brought to you by the Town of Shelter Island Green Options Committee, which meets once per month to advise the Town Board on environmental and energy sustainability on Shelter Island.