House Recycling Program

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

Q: How can I get a compost bin in my office or get more information about the House Recycling Program?

A:  To receive compost bins, fill out the Participation Sign Up Form. For more information, email Pat Moran at pmoran@aoc.gov.
Click here to participate ».

Q: What should be thrown in the compostable bins?

A: Food, cups, plates, napkins, utensils and carryout containers obtained from the House eateries. Coffee grounds, filters and tea bags should also be put in the compost bin.

Q: When will my compostables, landfill waste and recycling be collected? 

A: AOC staff empties recycling containers every night, Monday through Friday. Secured access rooms may need to set their containers in hallways at night to ensure that materials are collected.

Q: Who can participate in the new compost and recycling programs?

A: Any office can request composting bins, which the House Recycling Office will provide. People are already composting in the House’s eateries. The Ford House Office Building will begin composting in its cafeteria in September 2008.
Click here to participate ».

Q: How long does waste that goes into the composting bin take to actually turn into compost?

A: Anywhere from three to 12 months, depending on the material.

Q: Where will the compostable waste be taken after it is thrown in the proper bins?

A: The waste is taken to one of two places: the Department of Agriculture’s composting facility in Beltsville, Maryland or a commercial composting facility called Chesterfield Farms in Crofton, Maryland.

Q: With all this recycling and composting going on, what still goes in the plain, old garbage? 

A: There are still several "odds and ends" that should be thrown in the garbage - now called "landfill waste".  Candy wrappers, Styrofoam®, carbon paper, plastic wrap, potato chip bags, plastic lids (from coffee and soup cups), old pens and yogurt containers are all considered landfill waste.

Q: What about cardboard boxes - how can I recycle them?

A: Cardboard boxes may be too large to fit in your office recycling container, but they can still be recycled.  Break the boxes down and put them in or next to the bin. Labeling a box with the message, "Recycle, please," will help ensure it is picked up.

Q: How can I recycle the paperboard or cardboard that is found in tablet backings, gift boxes and food trays?

A: Paperboard and cardboard can be recycled in the "paper" category. 

Q:  How can I recycle bottles and cans in the new program?

A:  Glass bottles, plastic bottles, aluminum cans and steel cans all go into the "Bottles & Cans" bin.

Q: Why should I participate?

A: The more people who participate in the program the more impact it will have. The program will conserve resources, reduce local and overall pollution and improve the efficiency and reduce the cost of House operations.