Recycle candy wrappers, compost pumpkins at local event

Fort Wayne, Indiana (WPTA) – Did you know that plastic candy and food wrappers are not accepted in traditional recycling programs?

To promote sustainability this Halloween, EcoFest officials and the Allen County Department of Environmental Management (ACDEM) worked together to provide a special recycling opportunity for the community.

Residents are invited to save plastic candy wrappers and submit them for recycling through the TerraCycle program. Officials say only plastic packaging is acceptable, including plastic with a metal layer. Wrapping paper, paper boxes, suction cups, aluminum foil wrappers, and dirty items will not be accepted.

“We recommend that participants use the ‘tear test’. If the item splits in half easily, do not include it. Residents are encouraged to support the recycling process by remembering to sort effectively. “When in doubt, discard!”

The opportunity is free, and residents are asked to pack the wrapper in a reusable bag or container. The event is scheduled for November 4th from 5-8pm at the Trinity English Lutheran Church at 450 W. Washington Blvd.

Additional collections are provided at:

• Mercantile on Main (1753 W Main St.)
  • November 3 – 5, 10 & 11
  • 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Three Rivers Natural Food Co-Op and Deli (1612 Sherman Blvd.)
  • October November 31 11
  • Monday – Saturday: 9am – 7pm
  • Sunday noon to 6pm

The unpainted pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns brought in will be used to feed rescued animals at the local nonprofit Dix Organics, officials said.

ACDEM lists other ways to make this Halloween season sustainable, including donating used costumes, making costumes at home, composting pumpkins, and reusing decorations annually.

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