David N. Cicilline          
Mayor of Providence          

06/02/2009
Daisy What day of the week is trash pickup on Harold Street?

Hi, Friday is the Harold Street trash pick up day. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy!

06/02/2009
Hi Daisy, Is there somewhere I can recycle plastic that isn't allowed in the green bin (such as those clamshell containers for tomatoes, salad, etc.)? Thank you!

Hello, Plastic bottles, cans, and aluminum all go in the BLUE bin. Paper and cardboard all go in the GREEN bin. Everyone in Providence will soon receive information by mail as to what items go where. If you have any further questions please call 401-467-7950 ext 551. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy.

06/02/2009
Hello, Our office has a lot of boxes of paper, letter head and brochures we need to recycle. Can I put them out with my recycles at home or is there a location I can drop them off at? Thanks! Linda

Hi, Feel free to contact me 401-467-7950 ext. 519. We can discuss the possible options. Thank you, your recycling coordinator, Daisy.

06/02/2009
Could you please tell me what days of the month the city picks up old stoves and refrigerators Thanks!

LARGE APPLIANCES (White Goods), BULKY ITEMS (Furniture & Electronic Waste): WHAT QUALIFIES? Scrap metal above 35 lbs., appliances such as refrigerators, stoves, washer-dryers, water heaters, air conditioners; bulky items such as mattresses and household furniture; and e-waste such as computer monitors, TV’s, desktop computers, laptops, peripheral computer equipment, and general electronic equipment. Beginning on July 1, 2009, please call the Waste Management call center 1-508-958-7775 to schedule pickup. Please note: Items that have not been called in will not be collected. There is a limit of 3 per week. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

06/02/2009
I have some old oil I need to get rid of? Who do I contact?

Hello, Bring your old motor oil and filters to the highway department at Public Works on 20 Ernest Street. You may also contact Frankie Liberatore for further questions 401-467-7950. Your recycling coordinator Daisy Diaz!

05/08/2009
Dear Daisy I have a large pile of natural wood waste and I want to know if there are any wood using energy plants in the area where this might be taken. Is anyone involved in the production of green energy from natural wood waste recycling. Please email me at schulzeagle@yahoo.com Thanks Carl

Hello Carl, I'm not aware of any at the current time. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

05/08/2009
Hello. My neighbor has a large dumpster on the side of apartment building (8 units) that is constantly overflowing, lids open, and trash spills out into the street. Rats and racoons are always around. What can we do?

Please call the Environmental Department at Public Works at 467 7950. Thank you for your question! Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

05/08/2009
Hey Daisy. I need to get rid of an old, but working, computer monitor. Its not a flatscreen, but a heavy CRT. How do I get rid of it and does it cost anything? Thanks.

Eco-Depot & Residential E-waste Collection Two community satellite Eco-Depot events sponsored by RIRRC will take place during May. The first will is scheduled for Saturday, May 16th at Narrrangansett Town Beach, and the second will be held Saturday, May 30th in Woonsocket. The Narragansett collection will also include E-Waste. On May 9th there will be a combined Eco-Depot and E-waste/Computer Drop-off event held at the Central Landfill. Appointments are necessary for Eco-Depot, but not for E-waste. Please call 942-1430 ext.241 for further information and to make an appointment.

05/08/2009
Hi Daisy I was wondering if I could get a list of trash day schedule for the city of providence. I collect alot of the metals that are left on the sidewalks that waste management does not take(old lawn mowers, washing machines and other things people don't schedule for pick up. It would be greatly appreciated. My email is generalmc22@yahoo.com thanks

Hi, Please give me a call so we can discuss possible options: 467 7950 ext. 519. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

04/29/2009
Daisy, Is the Public Works garage still accepting used motor oil? During what hours? thanks Bob

Hi Bob, The department of Public works is still accepting motor oil. From 7:00 - 3:30 pm. You may also contact Frank Liberatore 401-467-7950 ext.514 Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

04/29/2009
Dear Diaz, We live in a ten unit condo. on the Eastside and the private collectors have told us that there will be no more services for our building, could we have a city collection for the weekly trash. Many thanks Anxious owners

Dear constituent, Only residences of 6 units or less are eligible for trash or recycling pickup. You would need to contract out a hauler for this residence. I would be happy to provide you with a haulers list. The prices are very competitive. Feel free to contact us at 401-467-7950. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

04/29/2009
Dear Daisy, In our school we are trying to set up a recycling system. We have been trying to find a way so that RI pays for it. But, one of the problems is that we are a private school, and many of the recyling centers we have tried to contact do not come because of it. We really want to recycle but we doubt anyone knows how. Yours Truly, Joselyn Chacon

Hi Jocelyn, Thanks for your commitment to recycling! Please give me a call so we can discuss possible options: 467 7950 ext. 519. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

04/29/2009
Hi Daisy: Is there a place to drop off oversized cardboard for recycling? (rather than breaking it down and putting it in our bins, a little each week) Thanks! AC

Dear Constituent, The proper way to dispose of cardboard boxes is flatten the box to a 3x2 size and there is no a limit to how many boxes can be disposed.

04/28/2009
I live in Killingly St and noticed that some of the garbage is being left behind. Some of the recycling bins are being left full. Is there a reason for this? Is the recycling garbage and the normal garbage pick up at different times? Thanks.

Dear Constituent, The recyclables and household garbage are picked up at different times on the same day. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

04/13/2009
Hi Daisy, When does yard debris (leaves and stuff) begin and end?

Yard Service begins Monday, April 13th. Please review the annoucements for helpful tips for the proper preperation of yard debris. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

04/10/2009
Daisy, I have a couch and chair that I would like to get rid of. Are those items that can be picked up curbside or do I need to bring them to a disposal site. Thanks, Tara

Hi Tara, Those items can be placed on the curb for pick up. Every unit is entitled one bulky item per week. Your recyling coordinator, Daisy

04/10/2009
I have a bin that is falling apart from being toss around will they replace it at Allens Av without a charge?

Hello, It is not our policy at the moment. You can visit the Department of Public Works Administration Building at 700 Allens Avenue from 8:30 am to 4 pm, Mon-Fri. (401) 421-7950 X 519. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

04/10/2009
Can we recycle plastic jug tops? Can we recycle stretchy plastic bags with paper labels on them?

Plastic jug tops are not recyclable. However, thanks for your commitment to recycling! Please give me a call so we can discuss your next question: 467 7950 ext. 519. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

04/10/2009
Hi Daisy, I don't know if this is the correct place to ask, but figured I'd try anyway. I have a front neighbor that does not keep her side of the street clean (my front yard is her back yard). She has a tall fence, so sometimes i feel like she doesn't see the same things i see on a daily basis. she also doesn't keep her grass trimmed (outside of the fence, so people tend to throw trash). Also, i've emailed the Graffitti busters 2 times in the the past year, and nothing has been done. This same neighbor, has graffitti on her tall fence!!!! Sorry to ramble, but I like my neighborhood and just want to clean it up! Most of us on Moore Street do. Caring Moore Street Neighbor, Dennisse

Denisse, I commend you for your concern of your neighborhood. To report graffitti issues and express other concerns please call the Office of Neighborhood Sevices (401)421-2489. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

04/10/2009
How do I dispose of mattresses? Can I just leave them on the curb with the big green trash containers?

Please call the Environmental Department at Public Works at 467 7950. Dalila Ramirez can add this item to the 'bulky/white goods' list for pickup to ensure that it is disposed of properly. Thank you for your question! Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

04/10/2009
Hi Daisy, how do I properly dispose of paint?

For latex paint please remove the lids and let the paint thoroughly harden. Add cat liter or latex hardener for faster drying. Once dry, latex paint can be disposed of with household rubbish. Dispose empty latex cans in your recycle blue bin. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

04/10/2009
Hi, Daisy- Is it proper to put the big green trash bin on the street, wheels to the curb, or should it go all the way up on the curb itself? I recall the original instructions were to put it in the street, but none of my neighbors do that. Thanks, John

Hi John, The proper place for your BGC is on the sidewalk. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

04/09/2009
I am redoing my bathroom and will have to get rid of old toilets and sinks. Is that something WM will take?

Hello, That is a great question. Toilets and sinks should be taken to Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corporation, located at 65 Shun Pike Johnston, RI 02919. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

04/09/2009
I had read somewhere that as of 1/1/09 PVD residents will be charged fees for trash items left outside their green barrells. Is this true? I cant find any information on the city website.

That is not our policy at the moment. Your recyling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

04/09/2009
I have a working refrigerator that I'd like to dispose of. How should I go about doing that? Steve

Please call the Environmental Department at Public Works at 467 7950. Dalila Ramirez can add this item to the 'bulky/white goods' list for pickup to ensure that it is disposed of properly. Thank you for your question! Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

04/09/2009
I haven't been able to find 95-gallon trash can liners except on the web in large quantities. Are there places locally that carry them?

Hi, Iam not too clear as to what your situation is, but we would love to help. Feel free to contact us at 401-467-7950. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

04/09/2009
Daisy, I just moved to a new apartment. The landlord contracts with a private waste company for garbage disposal. There are no recycling bins provided. When I mentioned recycling to the landlord, he didn't really answer my questions. What should I do to recycle? Also, since I just moved I have a large collection of corrugated cardboard boxes. Is there someplace I should take those? Thanks!

Dear constituent, Only residences of 6 units or less are eligible for trash or recycling pickup. Feel free to contact us at 401-467-7950. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

04/09/2009
I live on Smith Hill (Smith St. to be exact) and it seems that the recyclables haven't been picked up for the past few weeks but the garbage has...is there a reason for this? When will they get picked up again? I hate to drag them out to the front of the house if they're not being picked up. Judith

Dear Judith, to report recycling pick up please contact the department of Public Works at 401-467-7950 or visit us at 700 Allens Avenue during normal business hours: Mon-Fri 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

04/09/2009
Hello, Where can I recycle plastics that are 3-7? Thanks, Linda

Hi Linda, Plastics 3-7 should be disposed of in your Big Green Can. However, any number 5 plastic can be brought to Whole Foods for their new "Gimmie 5" recycling program. http://blog.wholefoodsmarket.com/2009/01/gimme-5-recycling/ Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

04/09/2009
Dear Daisy, I have two small empty wooden crates used for shipping clementines. How should I dispose of them? If I used a fireplace, I'd make them into kindling, but I don't. A.B. P.S. "disappear", not "dissapear", please.

Hi AB, Empty wooden crates can be disposed of in your regular Big Green Can. I would not recommend placing the crates in any type of fire. These types of crates may be treated with potentially hazardous chemicals. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

12/31/2008
Hi, On my Pawtucket city calendar, leaf pick-up ends at the end of November. What is the schedule for Providence. Thanks, PJ

Hi PJ, Leaf and yard waste season runs from April to the second week of December. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

12/31/2008
I have an old microwave oven I would like to dispose of. Can this be picked up as a 'bulky item' or do I bring it to the RIRR in Johnston? I am not having any luck finding info. about how to dispose of it properly either on this website or RIRR. - Margaret H. (Elmhurst)

Hi Margaret, Please call the Environmental Department at Public Works at 467 7950. Dalila Ramirez can add this item to the 'bulky/white goods' list for pickup to ensure that it is disposed of properly. Thank you for your question! Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

12/31/2008
How do I get another recycling bin? Mine has gone missing.

Dear resident, Please visit Public Works at 700 Allens Avenue during normal business hours: Mon-Fri from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Bins are $5 each. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

12/31/2008
Hi Daisy - I put yard waste out in marked containers on our normal trash day but it was not picked up. Is there a different schedule for yard waste pickup?

Dear resident, Leaf and yard waste collection has ended for the season. It will resume in April. Please be on the lookout for announcements on the recycling website or call 467 7950 for more information. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

12/31/2008
next pickup for leaves

Dear resident, Leaf and yard waste pickup will resume in April. Please be on the lookout for announcements on the recycling website or call Public Works at 467 7950. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

12/31/2008
Hi Daisy, Do Providence have available the rolling blue recycling bins (kind of mini "big green cans")? I have 2 blue bins that I use every week and they are in pretty touch shape. It would be nice to have a bigger rolling bin. Thanks Chris

Hi Chris, We offer only 22 gal. blue bins. One other option is to use a large container like an extra trash can (like the ones you buy in the store) and place an "Extra Recycling" sticker on it. You'll be able to use this container as a recycling bin. Just make sure to keep your paper and bottles separate - the recycling truck will do the rest. We provide "Extra Recycling" stickers to residents free of charge at Public Works. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

12/31/2008
I live in a duplex,my landlord owns 2 duplexs on one property! when they frist handed out the new bins for recycling,the next day they were taken away from us,the city told our landlord that inorder for us to get the bins back,he would have to put up a fence to seperate the two house. in the mean time we have to use a dumpster. my question is where do we bring our items to be recycled?and I'm not just asking for,papper,plastic,cardbored,but what about shampoo,cleaning bottles,detergent bottles. would I have to take them to the same place,or some where else? Cindy, warwick

Hi Cindy, Thanks for your commitment to recycling! Please give me a call so we can discuss your options: 467 7950 ext. 519. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

12/31/2008
HI , Daisy i want to know if you got my message about yesterday and i also want to know if you send the trash on the ship is it 1,233,003 million dollors.Also prople only have to write about recycleing question.

Hi Nyah, I think you're referring to how much it cost our city to put our waste into the landfill. The number was: $2,133,856. Now imagine how much money we would save if we recycled more! Tell your class I said "Hi!" - Daisy

12/31/2008
HI, Daisy Diaz my name is Nyah i want to know that if the hole where all the trash goes what if gets full what will happen.

Hi Nyah, The hole where we bury our trash is called a "landfill". Almost every city and town in RI uses the Central landfill in Johnston to dispose of its waste. Once this is full (in 24 years or so), we will need to transport our trash over long distances to other states. This is a bad use of resources, creates extra air pollution (and greenhouse gases), and is VERY expensive. If we all recycle more and make sure our friends and neighbors do too, we can make sure it lasts! AND, most importantly, we can take good care of the earth and help keep our neighborhoods clean. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

12/31/2008
Hello, Where can I pick up recycle bins? thanks meg connor

Hi Meg, Please visit Public Works at 700 Allens Avenue during regular business hours: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Bins are $5 each. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

12/31/2008
Hi Daisy, I went to take the trash out and my city trash container is gone. I see it no where around any of the other yards. With this big storm and "tornado watch" I think it has blown away. I had picup on Thurs, but they came later than normal. I think with the rain and wind, it blew it away and I can't find it. How do I request a new one? Thank you. RIscooby@aol.com

Dear resident, To report your Big Green Can as stolen and make arrangements for a replacement, please visit Public Works at 700 Allens Avenue during normal business hours: Mon-Fri 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. The receptionist will happily assist you. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

12/31/2008
Hi Daisy, How do I dipose of a mattress?

Dear resident, Please call the Environmental Department at Public Works to be placed on the bulky item pickup list: 467 7950. Ask for Dalila Ramirez who will happily assist you. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

12/31/2008
Dear Daisy: We just moved into a 1930-built house, and the cast-iron waste stack needed to be replaced immediately. What do we do with the old one since it is not eligible for trash pick-up? Thanks, Zoe Pierson

Dear Zoe, To recycle metal, you'll need to get in touch with one of our local scrap metal recyclers. Please contact me at 467 7950 ext. 519 for a comprehensive list. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

12/31/2008
Daisy, With the govt mandated shift to high def in Feb, many citizens have old analog receivers from service companies (Direct TV etc) - they don't dispose of old units. How / where do I dispose of old, outdated electronic equipment in Prov? Thanks Cyndi in Armory District

Dear Cyndi, To recycle electronic equipment and arrange for pickup, please call the Environmental Department in Public Works at 467 7950. Ask for Dalila Ramirez who will add you to the pickup list. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

12/31/2008
Dear Daisy, We have 4 old garbage bins we don't need-- they seem to be an older version of the standard big green ones. They are medium-sized, blue, on wheels, and have lids. Can we recycle them? Do we need to call someone to arrange for pickup? Thank you, Mariani

Dear resident, Good question! Items made of rigid plastic cannot be collected as part of your curbside recycling service. Please bring these items to RI Resource Recovery at 65 Shun Pike, Johnston during normal business hours (www.rirrc.org). Please proceed to their small vehicle area. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

11/03/2008
Hi Daisy, how do I recycle or dispose spray bottles and old mercury thermostat? thanks

Dear constituent, Great question!
You can bring your old mercury thermostat to Eco-Depot, RI Resource Recovery's hazardous collection events. The next three will take place on Nov. 1 and 13, and Dec. 6. Appointments are required, so please call 942-1430 x241 to arrange for your visit. Or you can do this online and find more information about this program and other satellite collections at: http://www.rirrc.org/main.cfm?sec_id=30&guid=b9748a58-a5c4-4669-be01-e40a6e326fe1
Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

11/03/2008
Hi, I am curious about the amount of revenue generated by the city recycling program. How much revenue is generated per year from recyclables collected? How much profit (if any) is made, and where does that money go? Is there a balance sheet for public viewing? Thanks, Mike

Hi Mike, The City's program does not generate revenue. The recyclables collected are brought to the recycling facility at RI Resource Recovery Corp. Once there, they are the property of RIRRC who sorts and sells the material. As of last fiscal year, all cities and towns were eligible to receive a portion of the proceeds of the sale of recyclables from RIRRC based on the amount tons they recycled. This money is reinvested into municipal recycling programs for services, educational and public information programs, and equipment. For more information, please contact the Director of Public Works, John Nickelson at 467 7950. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

11/03/2008
Dear Daisy, I live in a residential neighborhood on the East Side, a couple doors down from a restaurant that has its trash and recycling picked up three times a week. The pickups take place between 3:30 and 5:00 am each time, and are very noisy. Is this allowed, and if not, who do I make a complaint to? Thanks!

Dear constituent, To file a noise complaint, please call the Environmental Department at Public Works at 467 7950. An inspector can assess the situation. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

11/03/2008
Hi Daisy, Where would I bring used automobile antifreeze for recycling ? Jay

Hi Jay, You can bring your automobile antifreeze to Eco-Depot, RI Resource Recovery's hazardous collection events. The next three will take place on Nov. 1 and 13, and Dec. 6. Appointments are required, so please call 942-1430 x241 to arrange for your visit. Or you can do this online and find more information about this program and other satellite collections at: http://www.rirrc.org/main.cfm?sec_id=30&guid=b9748a58-a5c4-4669-be01-e40a6e326fe1 Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

11/03/2008
Hi Daisy, I would like to use some white bins I purchased from Ikea for my recycling items to be picked up. (I always separate botlles from paper). Are those going to be collected just like if it was a green and blue bin?? thanks

Dear constituent, Place labels that state "Extra Recycling" on your bins and they will be treated in the same way as regular bins. You can make your own or pick up free "Extra Recycling" stickers at Public Works located on 700 Allens Avenue during regular business hours. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

11/03/2008
Hi- I don't know if I'm in the right place to pose this question, but I live within 200 feet of a restaurant that commonly (2 to 3 days a week) has its garbage and recycling dumpsters emptied at approximately 4 AM and 6 AM, respectively. It is my understanding that, under the City Code of Ordinaces, Sec. 12-61.1 e. no dumpster located within two hundred (200) feet of a residential zone property shall be serviced between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7 a.m. I assume this means that the restaurant should not be having trash and recycling pickups from its dumpsters between these hours. Am I correct, and if so, to whom would I lodge a complaint? Many thanks!

Dear constituent, To file a noise complaint, please call the Environmental Department at Public Works at 467 7950. An inspector can assess the situation. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

11/03/2008
One of the wheeles on my large trash bin has broken off. Do you offer a replacement wheel set? If not, what should I do? Thanks.

Dear constituent, Please call the Environmental Department at Public Works to schedule repairs to your Big Green Can at 467 7950. It's a quick and easy fix in most cases. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

11/03/2008
Dear Daisy, How can I dispose of a computer? The trash collector did not pick mine up so I guess I must have to bring it somewhere for disposal. Thank you, Kathy

Hi Kathy, E-waste like computers, monitors, and TV's must be called in for pickup and beginning in January 2009 is banned from the landfill. This is because they contain hazardous chemicals such as mercury and lead. To arrange for pickup, please call the Environmental Department in Public Works at 467 7950. Please ask for Dalila Ramirez who will happily assist you by placing your name on the e-waste pickup list. It will be collected on your next trash/recycling day. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

11/03/2008
Are soy and rice milk boxes ok to recycle, with other drink cartons in the blue bin?

Dear Constituent, I'm glad you asked. Drink cartons are recyclable and should be rinsed (ideally) and placed inside your blue bin. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

10/20/2008
If recycling is so important, why do I have 2 95 gallon bins for garbage but only 1 small bin each for recyclables and paper? Shouldn't it be the other way around? I often overflow my recycling bins, but I've never even used my second gigantic trash bin.

Dear constituent, Great observation! The toters were distributed to help eliminate the City's rat problem. They've been a huge success in this regard. We have a 1 Big Green Can per unit policy, only residences with more than one unit will have more than 1 BGC in the yard. To create more space for recycling without purchasing more bins, use any spare container you have. Extra trash cans you might have around work best. Place an "Extra Recycling" sticker on the can you want to use and use it only for your bottles/cans or your paper/cardboard. It will be collected just like your recycle bins. Many kudos on your conscientious recycling! Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

10/20/2008
Hi Daisy Where would I bring household batteries like 9V and AA or AAA's to dispose of them properly ? Jay

Great question! Batteries can be disposed of in the trash safely - that's the word from our friends at RI Resource Recovery. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

10/20/2008
Daisy: I am in a sculpture class and am looking for free or cheap materials to make art out of recycled items. Does the city allow citizens access to recycled items? Thanks. : )

Dear constituent, It depends on what kinds of materials you need and on what you mean by access. :) Recyclables collected from the curb go directly to the municipal recycling facility run by RI Resource Recovery. So once they're in the truck, we don't have access to them anymore. However, there may be other possibilities. Please give me a call at 467 7950 ext. 519 if you'd like to discuss other options. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

10/20/2008
Dear Daisy, There are many types of paper that aren't on the short list for recycling. May I put brown paper bags in my green bin? Cereal boxes? Soft drink carriers? Beer carriers? Frozen food containers? I'm not always sure what belongs, and don't want to cause problems. Would it be possible to post a more comprehensive list for those of us who are compulsive about recycling?

Great question! Cereal boxes are a yes - soft drink and beer carriers, and frozen food containers are a no. Here's a link to a comprehensive guide to recycling in RI: http://www.rirrc.org/documents/RIRR-4645%20recycling%20FA.pdf A link to it is also posted on the "How to Recycle" part of this website. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

09/10/2008
Daisy, If I put a TV out and arrange for a pickup will it be recycled or just disposed of? I noted that the Johnston Recycle Center takes TVs on Saturday mornings, but I work during that time. Thanks, Bassy

Hi Bassy, To recycle your TV, please call the Dept. of Public Works at 467 7950 and ask for Dalila Ramirez in Environmental. Ask to have your TV placed on the white goods and bulky items pickup list. Your TV will be picked up curbside and recycled. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

09/10/2008
Where can I recycle my Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFL's)? -Shane Easter

Hi Shane, Great question! Please view the following announcement on our Announcements section for details on recycling your CFL's. (The short answer is that Home Depot will recycle them for you free of charge.) http://providenceri.com/green/detail.php?id=15

08/29/2008
Hi, not sure if you received my last question. I was wondering if people are allowed to have an open compost in their yard in Providence.

Dear resident, I will look into this for you. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

08/29/2008
daisy, I want to recycle using the BLUE recycling bags purchased from the local super market. Is there anything I need to know before I fill these bags with all of my recyclable goods?

Dear resident, Thank you for looking inquiring about this. Recyclables can only be stored for curbside pickup in recycle bins or containers labeled "Extra Recycling". We do not pickup recyclables stored in bags. Great question! Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

08/13/2008
Dear Daisy, This week my housemates left several cardboard moving boxes on the curb to be recycled, appropriately broken down and neatly stacked. However, after the recycling was picked up in the morning, I noticed that the boxes had been placed on top of our big green can, to be collected with the trash! Is there a reason why these cardboard boxes could not be recycled? Your constituent, Julie

Hi Julie, As long as the cardboard boxes were broken down so that they were no larger than 3 x 3, they met all of the rules for recycling pickup. In the event they didn't and were too large to fit into the chutes on the side of the recycling truck, the cardboard should have been left behind. It should never be left for the trash truck. Please send me your address and I will be glad to correct this problem. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

07/24/2008
Daisy, When will "Blue Bins" be availabe for purchase? I've been trying to purchase a new one for some time but I'm told that they are out of stock. Thanks. Dean

Hi Dean, Our Department of Public Works purchases bins for RI Resource Recovery. Unfortunately, RIRRC has been unable to complete their scheduled order, so we cannot purchase the blue bins we need from them right now. In the meantime, you can leave us with your name, address, and number so we can reach you when we have blue bins available. You can also use your green bin as a container for bottles, if you have an extra one. As long as each stream is separate, the recycling truck driver will know where it should go. Finally, you can also pick up free "Extra Recycling" stickers from us. These can be placed on any plastic container you have (i.e. a spare trash can). Simply keep your paper and bottles separate and put it at the curb. The recycle truck driver will do the rest.

07/24/2008
Hello! I'd like to start composting and was wondering if I could buy some large compost bins when I go in to purchase recycling tubs? If so, can you also relay some prices? I appreciate your time! -Jaimee Valadez P.S. Please feel free to email me at: Prncsofemrldcty@aol.com

Hi Jaimee, We don't sell compost bins at the Department of Public Works. RI Resource Recovery does have compost bins for sale at a price below retail. They're located at: 65 Shun Pike, Johnston, RI 02919. Compost bins are available for sale between the hours of 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday. They'll also happily provide you with information on how to construct your very own. For questions, please call Mike Mesolella at 401 942 1430 ext. 252. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

07/24/2008
Dear Daisy Our city issued 95 gallon trash-can was stolen. Please tell us how to replace it; are we to buy a new one or will the city replace it; and where can we get it? Your guidance is truely appreciated. thank you.

For a replacement Big Green Can, you can visit the Department of Public Works Administration Building at 700 Allens Avenue from 8:30 am to 4 pm, Mon-Fri. Please bring proof of address and identification. The receptionist will take down your information and schedule delivery of a new can. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

07/11/2008
Dear Daisy, I was wondering if there was a law in Providence regarding what time trash pickup can start in the morning? Other municipalities don't allow trucks to start collecting until a certain time to avoid too much noise too early in the morning, so I was wondering if Providence had any similar ordinances? Thanks! Pam, Providence

Hi Pam, It is our policy to have the trucks begin trash pickup at 6 a.m. on weekdays only. The ordinances that regulate trash removal and recycling are contained in Article III of the City Code of Ordinances.

07/07/2008
Dear Daisy, I have seen trash cans with stickers on them that label them as containing yard debris. This seems like a convenient way to dispose of small amounts of leaves and branches. Is this an approved method of disposing of yard debris, and if so where can I get some of those labels? Thanks. Jack.

Hi Jack, Thanks! For free yard waste stickers, visit the Department of Public Works at 700 Allens Avenue. We're open Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 4 PM (summer hours).

07/07/2008
Daisy, How can we recycle fruit, vegetable, egg shells and other food materials? Can we put them with garden materials for recycling? Concetta-Federal Hill Neighborhood

Hi Concetta, We do not have a community composting program in Providence. However, you can compost at home -- it's a superb, earth-friendly practice! RI Resource Recovery offers compost bins for $50 if you need some to get started.

06/05/2008
Hi Daisy...I hope you can help me. We have an old wood dresser and a tv set, that we need to discard...what is the best way to dispose of these items??? Is there a charge &/or a fee if we leave them on the curb??? Thank you for your time...have a great day! Candice, Providence

Hi Candice, To have your TV set and dresser picked up, you'll need to call the Department of Public Works to be placed on the bulky items pickup list. Please call 467 7950 and ask for Dalila Ramirez. Once you're on the list, you can place them on the curb the night before collection day. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

06/05/2008
Dear Daisy, I live in a condo complex whose trash is not eligible for city pickup (but that's another issue!). Are we still eligible for city recycling pickup? Thanks. c

Dear constituent, Only residences of 6 units or less are eligible for trash or recycling pickup. The good news is that recycling service is affordable. Please contact me via e-mail or phone and I can provide you with a list of recycling haulers for you to pass on to apartment management. I'm confident you'll find an excellent deal. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

05/27/2008
I am one apartment in a 2-apartment household. We only have 2 blue bins and no green bins. is it OK to put recyclable paper in one of the blue bins? Mike Kloc 92 Gray Street, Providence

Hi Mike, Great question! As long as that bin is dedicated only to paper, you can use your blue bin. To avoid confusion during collection, place a large sticker or sign on the bin that clearly states: "Paper Recycling".

05/21/2008
Miss Diaz, Our class is still researching recycling. (Thank you for all the information you shared with them already. ) One new question: what does it mean to recycle only "Clean Paper" Thank you for your time, Margaret Sabo

Dear Miss Sabo, Great question! "Clean paper" refers to paper that isn't dirty in the traditional sense of the word (i.e. not dragged in dirt) or otherwise contaminated with food (i.e. sauce, cheese, oil, etc.) Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

05/19/2008
Dear Daisy, Is Providence still holding computer and electronic equipment collection days? A couple years ago I brought a load to Mt. Pleasant High School on the appointed day. This worked great. If any more collection days are being planned, how do I find out about them? Ann Jacquez Providence, Elmhurst Section

Dear constituent, We currently do not have any local e-waste collections scheduled through the Department of Public Works. However, RI Resource Recovery will be holding an e-waste collection on May 31st. It will be from 8 am - 12 noon at Charlestown Elementary School located on Rt. 112, Carolina Back Road. No appointment is needed. Please note that this is an E-waste/computer collection only so they will NOT be collecting Eco-Depot (hazardous) materials. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

05/06/2008
I read the article about Leaf pick up starts on April 14th.. Is there a schedule when the pick up dates are or do they come randomly. I have at least 10 bags of leafs in front of my property but there has been no pick up.

Dear constituent, Leaf and yard waste bags should be put out on your trash day. They are typically picked up on the same day. At the beginning of the season, you may experience occasional delays. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy

04/28/2008
Daisy, Is there any way to determine exactly how much waste is being spared from the Johnston landfill just by recycling alone?

Dear constituent, As of March 31st, recycling has kept 5,841 tons of waste from going into the landfill for the current fiscal year. That's not counting white goods! Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

04/28/2008
Good morning Ms. Diaz, My name is Joseph Braga, I am the Executive Chef at the Radisson hotel on the harbor. I am trying to find information regarding city and or state recycling programs for the hotel I work at in Providence. Currently, we are trying to be a more "green" friendly establishment and want to explore any avenues at our disposal. I look foward to hearing from you and any information you can provide. Thank you for your time

Dear constituent, Kudos on wanting to be more enviromentally-friendly! The City currently only provides curbside recycling to residences with 6 units or less. Businesses are not eligible. However, there are many excellent haulers that will work with you to pick up your recyclables. I'll send you the information you need to get you started. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

04/28/2008
I live on Hope St. in Providence and put my recycling out in the evening on Sundays, the night before collection. For the last two weeks, a man in a green-ish colored minivan has been scavenging bottles and cans from our recycling. This isn't legal, is it? Is there something I can do to prevent this activity?

Dear constituent, Yes, scavenging of any kind is illegal according to Article III of the City Code of Ordinances, Section 12-87. The standard fine is $50. You should call the Associate Director of the Environmental Department, Bien Garcia, at 467 7950 for information about next steps. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

04/28/2008
Dear Daisy, Is there a printable brochure available on-line for landlords to provide to tenants with guidelines on proper rubbish and recycling procedures?

Dear constituent, For all things recycling and for the proper disposal of hazardous waste, see the following: http://www.rirrc.org/documents/RIRR-4645%20recycling%20FA.pdf This is a fairly exhaustive brochure. For something closer to a flyer, check out: http://www.rirrc.org/documents/12423%20multilingual1.pdf For information on general issues with waste: (This is a website.) http://providenceri.com/green/faq.php

04/28/2008
What I can do with plastic caps (in terms of recycling)? I hate to throw them away.

Dear constituent, Plastic caps are made of a resin that is not recyclable so they should be thrown away (as you've been doing). However, that doesn't mean you can't find creative ways to reuse them. Check out Green Daily for five interesting suggestions: http://www.greendaily.com/2008/04/26/5-ways-to-reuse-plastic-bottle-caps/ Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz

04/28/2008
What is the rate and fees of solid waste removal?

Dear constituent, If you are referring to the tipping fees that RI Resource Recovery charges for the disposal of solid waste at the Central landfill, the fees are: $32 per ton for municipal waste and $56 per ton for commercial waste. Your recycling coordinator, Daisy Diaz