Mesa Encourages Residents to Reduce Waste and Recycle this Holiday Season

November 22, 2023 at 12:00 am

Mesa is encouraging residents to reduce, reuse, and recycle right this holiday season. Household waste generation increases by more than 20% in November and December, but many common gifts, decorations, and household items purchased during this time of year can be harmful to people or the environment if not properly discarded. The City of Mesa Solid Waste Department offers the following reminders and resources to help residents recycle safely and sustainably.

- Pouring frying oil down the drain can cause severe plumbing damage. Instead, recycle it at Mesa's Household Hazardous Materials facility. Visit mesaaz.gov/hhm for location, hours of operation, and drop-off guidelines.

- Choose decorations and wrappers made from recyclable materials like paper. Certain gift items such gift bags, ribbon, embellished gift wrap and greeting cards are not recyclable, along with batteries and electronics. Review Mesa's list of accepted recycling items at mesarecycles.org.

- Christmas Tree Recycling drop-off sites will be available to Mesa residents between December 22, 2023, and January 17, 2024. Visit mesaaz.gov/waste for program locations, accepted items, and drop-off guidelines.

- Soak fireworks in water overnight before placing them in a garbage container. They may also be taken to the Household Hazardous Materials facility for safe disposal. Visit fire.mesaaz.gov/community-outreach/fireworks for additional fireworks safety information.

- Douse hot coals and firewood with water and allow to cool for 24 hours before disposal. Always bag and tie trash before placing it in your container.

- City of Mesa trash and recycling service is provided Monday through Saturday including all holidays.

The Solid Waste Department proudly serves the community and wishes all Mesa residents a joyous and safe holiday. More information about recycling guidelines is available at mesarecycles.org or by emailing waste.info@mesaaz.gov for additional information. To schedule interviews, please contact John Zielonka at 480-644-5294 or john.zielonka@mesaaz.gov.