Let's Talk Trash column, edited by Laura Dickerson

May 24, 2001

This biweekly column tries to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about recycling, composting and the town's solid waste program.

Q: I have an old air conditioner that no longer works. What can I do with it?
A: Air conditioners are considered white goods, and you should call Waste Management at (781) 933-2113 for a pickup.

Q: I have an expired propane tank. What do I do with it?
A: It can be dropped off at the household hazardous waste collection at Hartwell Avenue. The next date is June 16.

Q. Asphalt was thrown onto my yard. Can I throw it into the trash?
A: Small amounts of asphalt -gravel may be put in the trash but big chunks should go to DPW for recycling. You can gather it up and drop it off at 201 Bedford St., or call the DPW at 781-861-2757 for info.

Q: I have lost the flyer from the town with recycling rules. Is it available online?
A: Try http://ci.lexington.ma.us/DPW/Documents/recycle.pdf. There will be some additions to the recyclable list starting in July when the PAYT program begins. For example, all numbers of plastic containers will be allowed (the numbers are usually on the bottom of the item) and additional aluminum products (such as pie pans) will be recycled as well.

REMINDER: At New Discovery .Day (NDD) and at Lexfest there will be displays about recycling and composting, and information about PAYT. At NDD there will also be a thermometer exchange. Bring in a mercury thermometer and take away a digital one free.

The education efforts about recycling will be stepped up in preparation for implementation of PAYT. We want to know what you want to know, what you think you know, and what you recycle now. Please reply to the email address or phone number below.

Got a question? You can reach us by calling the League of Women Voters line at 781-861-0123 or by email at lexrecycles@hotmail.com. For more information, check out the SWAT Web. page at http://www.lexingtonma.org/swat/HomePage.htm.