New recycling initiative for
public events launched in Monroe County

Monroe County launched a new initiative aimed at increasing container recycling at public events. The pilot program will begin with this year's Lilac Festival in May.

Very few public event venues currently feature recycling opportunities for attendees. The Monroe County Recycling Advisory Committee (RAC) has enlisted help from the Lilac Festival Committee, Monroe County Departments of Environmental Services and Parks, and the City of Rochester Department of Environmental Services, to begin a pilot program designed to divert festival plastic and glass drink containers from entering area landfills.

Several container recycling stations will be set up in high-traffic areas at the Lilac Festival. During peak hours, the stations will be staffed by volunteers who will guide festival-goers in the proper way to recyle their containers. After the Lilac Festival, the program will be evaluated for areas of improvement. If the program is deemed successful, expansion to other venues within the county will be considered.