BLOOMINGTON — The Waste Reduction District of Monroe County is calling on residents and local businesses to strengthen their daily environmental habits in celebration of America Recycles Day on November 15, 2026.
The national observance highlights the social, environmental, and economic benefits of recycling while encouraging communities to adopt a “Circular Economy”—a model centered on designing out waste and pollution, keeping materials in active use, and regenerating natural systems.
“Wise earth care starts in our homes but expands into our workplace,” said Elisa Pokral, Community Outreach Coordinator for the District. “Recycling is basic earth stewardship.”
Local Services and ‘Recycling Right’
To support community participation, the Waste Reduction District operates five drop-off recycling centers across Monroe County. District officials emphasize the importance of “recycling right” by ensuring items placed in drop-off bins are properly rinsed, degreased, and dry.
Recent updates to the district’s collection procedures have streamlined sorting for patrons:
- Glass Containers: All glass bottles and jars can now be deposited together in a single designated container.
- Mixed Paper: The mixed paper category accepts white and colored paper, junk mail, magazines, books, newspapers, shredded paper, packing paper, and waxy-coated containers.
In addition to residential services, the District offers a Green Business program that provides commercial recyclable pickup for a minimal fee, paired with a complimentary waste audit to help local businesses establish effective storage and collection strategies.
Economic and Environmental Impacts
District leaders stress that daily recycling directly impacts both environmental health and the regional economy by diverting valuable raw materials away from landfills and reducing energy consumption.
According to data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), recycling one ton of aluminum cans conserves the energy equivalent of 36 barrels of oil or 1,655 gallons of gasoline. Additionally, utilizing recycled glass requires 40 percent less energy than manufacturing products from virgin raw materials.
“A healthy environment supports a robust economy,” said Tom McGlasson Jr., Executive Director of the Waste Reduction District. “The Waste Reduction District thanks its many patrons for dropping off recyclables, supporting the health of the earth, and the health of the economy.”
On a national level, the recycling and reuse industry encompasses more than 56,000 establishments employing approximately 1.1 million workers, generating an estimated $236 billion in annual revenues while offering wages that exceed the national average across all industries.
Community Education and Resources
The District provides free educational outreach, waste reduction resources, and citizen science programs designed to inform the public on proper waste diversion practices.
Monroe County residents seeking more information regarding accepted materials, facility locations, or commercial recycling services can contact the Waste Reduction District by phone at 812-349-2020 or visit wastereductiondistrict.com.
