How to Avoid Common Garbage Collection Mistakes in Orlando

Proper garbage collection is crucial for maintaining cleanliness and sustainability in any city. In Orlando, a few common mistakes can hinder efficient waste management and create unnecessary challenges for residents. Understanding these mistakes and knowing how to avoid them can make a significant difference in maintaining the city’s cleanliness and supporting its eco-friendly initiatives.

1. Not Sorting Recyclables Properly

One of the biggest mistakes residents make is failing to sort recyclables correctly. Mixing non-recyclables with recyclable materials can contaminate entire batches, making them unsuitable for processing.

Solution: Familiarize yourself with the recycling guidelines in Orlando, which often include items such as clean paper, plastics labeled #1 and #2, and aluminum cans. Avoid placing plastic bags, greasy items, and non-recyclable plastics in the recycling bin.

2. Incorrect Garbage Bin Placement

Placing bins in the wrong position or location can lead to missed collections. If bins are blocked by cars, trees, or placed too far from the street, garbage trucks may not pick them up.

Solution: Place your garbage bins at the curb, ensuring they’re at least three feet away from obstacles like cars, mailboxes, or trees. The lids should be closed securely to prevent animals from rummaging through the trash.

3. Overloading Garbage Bins

Overloading garbage bins not only makes them difficult to handle but can also cause trash to spill out and create a mess. Additionally, waste collection services may refuse to collect bins that exceed weight limits or are overflowing.

Solution: Ensure your bins are not overfilled and follow the weight limit set by your local waste management service. If you have excess trash, consider using additional bags or arranging for a special pickup.

4. Ignoring Hazardous Waste Guidelines

Many residents unknowingly dispose of hazardous waste, such as batteries, paint, and certain cleaning products, in their regular trash. These items can be harmful to sanitation workers and the environment.

Solution: Take advantage of Orlando’s designated hazardous waste collection programs. Items like batteries, electronics, and certain chemicals should be dropped off at appropriate recycling centers or during special collection events.

5. Not Following Yard Waste Guidelines

Orlando’s lush environment means that yard waste is a common part of household trash. However, mixing yard waste with regular garbage or not adhering to collection guidelines can lead to missed pickups.

Solution: Place yard waste in biodegradable bags or separate it into designated yard waste bins. Be sure to check local collection schedules for yard waste to ensure timely disposal.

6. Disposing of Large Items Incorrectly

Large items like furniture, mattresses, and appliances cannot be picked up during regular trash collection. Placing these items curbside without scheduling a special pickup can result in delays and potential fines.

Solution: Schedule a bulky item pickup through Orlando’s waste management service or use local disposal sites that accept large items. Always check for specific guidelines regarding the disposal of appliances and furniture.

7. Ignoring Trash Pickup Schedules

A common mistake is forgetting trash collection days or failing to put out the bins on time. This can lead to missed pickups, resulting in trash piling up for the next collection cycle.

Solution: Stay updated on your neighborhood’s trash pickup schedule. Many residents find it helpful to set reminders on their phones or subscribe to waste collection alerts offered by local services.

8. Placing Hazardous Items in Recycling

Certain items that may seem recyclable, such as certain types of plastics, electronic components, or sharp objects, are actually hazardous when placed in recycling bins. This can disrupt the recycling process and pose risks to workers.

Solution: Educate yourself on what can and cannot go in your recycling bin. Visit Orlando’s local waste management website for detailed information about acceptable recyclables and the proper way to dispose of electronic waste and other hazardous items.

9. Not Cleaning Recyclables

Dirty recyclables, such as greasy pizza boxes or unwashed food containers, can contaminate entire batches of recycling. Contaminated loads often end up in landfills, defeating the purpose of recycling.

Solution: Rinse food containers and ensure that items like cardboard and paper are clean before placing them in the recycling bin. If an item cannot be properly cleaned, dispose of it in the trash instead.

10. Ignoring Community Waste Disposal Rules

Orlando has specific community rules and guidelines that vary depending on residential zones. Ignoring these can lead to fines and other issues.

Solution: Familiarize yourself with any community or homeowners’ association (HOA) waste disposal rules specific to your neighborhood. These can include rules on collection times, acceptable waste types, and bin storage.

Conclusion

Avoiding these common garbage collection mistakes helps ensure smooth, efficient, and eco-friendly waste management in Orlando. By following proper disposal guidelines, placing bins correctly, and staying informed on collection schedules, residents can contribute to a cleaner and greener community.