In the wake of Tropical Storm Chantal, the Orange County Solid Waste Management has announced a series of important updates for residents regarding waste management services. The agency is waiving tipping fees for construction and demolition debris from affected properties, providing critical support as the community works towards recovery.
Service Alerts in Response to Tropical Storm Chantal
Effective immediately and continuing through August 9, Orange County Solid Waste will not charge tipping fees for qualifying storm-related debris at its Disposal Center (Landfill). This initiative aims to assist residents in their clean-up efforts following the storm.
Important Guidelines
- Eligibility: The waiver applies only to debris directly related to the storm.
- Permitted Materials: Residents are advised to check the list of materials that can be accepted at the Disposal Center.
Residents should also be aware that curbside recycling collection may face delays in certain areas due to the storm’s impact. For real-time updates on recycling collection performance, residents are encouraged to visit the Solid Waste website or download the Orange County NC Recycles App. Additionally, those seeking county-wide emergency updates can go to ReadyOrange.org and are urged to sign up for alerts via OCAlertsNC.com.
In a display of community cooperation, Orange County Solid Waste has loaned a collection truck to the Town of Carrboro Public Works and provided a sedan to another municipal partner to aid in recovery efforts.
Recycling Tips Amid Weather Challenges
As residents navigate through clean-up, the Solid Waste Management Department reminds them about proper recycling practices. Notably, some sunscreen containers are not recyclable in Orange County. Spray cans and tubs made for sunscreen should be disposed of in regular trash, while hard plastic bottles that are clean, empty, and dry can be recycled.
New Changes to Solid Waste Fees
Changes are also coming to the Solid Waste Enterprise Fund Fees as of July 1, 2025. Fees associated with landfill usage and compost bins will see an increase, although the annual Solid Waste Programs Fee will remain steady at $138. For detailed information on fee changes, residents can visit the Solid Waste website.
Plastic Free July: A Global Movement
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July is recognized as Plastic Free July, an initiative encouraging individuals to minimize single-use plastic consumption. Reducing plastic waste is vital, as items such as clamshells, drink cups, and film contribute almost 9% of waste generated in Orange County.
Alternatives for a Greener Month
Residents are provided with suggestions for reducing plastic use during this month:
- Utilize reusable shopping bags
- Opt for reusable cups, straws, and water bottles
- Choose plastic-free personal care products
- Use reusable cutlery
- Purchase natural fabric clothing
- Select bulk or concentrated cleaning products that do not utilize plastic packaging
Oyster Shell Recycling Initiative
Another significant environmental effort is the Oyster Shell Recycling Program, established by the North Carolina Coastal Federation. It is illegal to dispose of oyster shells in landfills or utilize them as mulch for landscaping in North Carolina. To combat declining oyster populations caused by pollution, habitat loss, and over-harvesting, the program offers a cost-free drop-off option for restaurants, businesses, and residents at the Orange County Landfill.
Importance of Oyster Shell Recycling
The benefits of restoring oyster populations in North Carolina’s coastal waters include:
- Habitat creation: Oyster reefs serve as essential habitats for various marine life, including fish, crabs, and shrimp.
- Water filtration: Oysters help filter and clean water in estuaries, improving overall water quality.
- Erosion reduction: The construction of oyster reefs contributes to shoreline protection against erosion.
Residents can bring their oyster shells to the Orange County Landfill, located at 1514 Eubanks Rd, Chapel Hill, NC. For operational hours, please refer to the Orange County Landfill webpage.
Understanding What Can Be Recycled: Monthly Review
The Solid Waste Management Department conducts evaluations of curbside recycling carts to educate residents on responsible recycling practices. Through the Recycling Stars Program, residents who recycle effectively are rewarded with star stickers, while those who include unaccepted items receive feedback.
Common Contaminants Found in Recycling Carts
Recent inspections have revealed several common contaminants that residents should avoid placing in their recycling bins:
- Spiral notebooks: These are non-recyclable. Instead, separate the paper from the metal spiral; throw away the spiral and plastic covers. The metal spiral can be recycled in the Scrap Metal bin at Waste and Recycling Centers.
- Ice cream cartons: These should not be recycled. Opt for ice cream packaged in recyclable plastic tubs instead.
- Tennis ball canisters: These are also non-recyclable and should be discarded in the trash.
- Shredded paper: This form of paper cannot be recycled curbside or at mixed recycling drop-offs. Residents can discard it with regular trash or deposit it in the Shredded Paper bin at the Eubanks Waste and Recycling Center. As a waste reduction tip, plain shredded paper can be repurposed as animal bedding.
About the Orange County Solid Waste Management Department
The Orange County Solid Waste Management Department oversees the Integrated Solid Waste Management facility, which includes the Construction and Demolition Landfill, Regulated Material Recycling, and sales of mulch and compost. The department also operates five Solid Waste and Recycling Centers, including two that accept Household Hazardous Waste and food waste drop-offs. Furthermore, it manages comprehensive recycling collection programs for both residential and commercial entities.
This monthly update serves as a reminder for residents to stay informed about local waste management practices and initiatives that promote a more sustainable future for Orange County.
