PHILADELPHIA, PA — As the holiday season concludes, Philadelphia sanitation officials are reminding residents about important changes to trash and recycling schedules. The city will observe the New Year’s holiday on January 1, 2024, resulting in a suspension of all trash and recycling collections that day. Residents whose regular collection days fall on Thursday or Friday are advised to set out their materials one day later than usual.
Households that typically receive twice-weekly collections will have only one pickup during the holiday week. Both trash and recycling will be collected on the first scheduled day only. Sanitation Commissioner Crystal Jacobs Shipman emphasized the importance of proper recycling during this busy period, stating that it helps keep costs down and reduces waste in landfills.
Christmas Tree Recycling Program Details
The city’s annual residential Christmas Tree Recycling Program will take place from January 5 to January 17, 2024. Now in its 37th year, this initiative provides residents with an environmentally friendly option for disposing of live trees. Residents can drop off undecorated and untied trees at any of the city’s six Sanitation Convenience Centers. These locations will be open from 08:00 to 18:00, Monday through Saturday. The centers are located at:
– 3033 South 63rd Street
– 2601 West Glenwood Avenue
– Domino Lane and Umbria Street
– 3901 North Delaware Avenue
– State Road and Ashburner Street
– 5100 Grays Avenue
Additionally, trees will be accepted at 15 designated drop-off locations on January 10 and January 17, from 09:00 to 15:00. City officials have stressed that trees must be completely free of decorations, including ornaments, lights, and tinsel, to be eligible for recycling. Trees that do not meet these criteria cannot be processed.
The recycling program is exclusively available to residents who utilize the city’s trash and recycling services. Those who receive private disposal must arrange for their own tree removal. Additionally, households that cannot participate in the recycling initiative can place their trees out as trash on their regular collection day.
Encouraging Sustainable Practices
Officials are also advocating for residents to consider ways to reuse their trees. Small pine branches and needles can serve as winter mulch for delicate plants, while trees can be composted. Burning the trees indoors is not recommended, as the sap can produce odors and contribute to creosote buildup in chimneys, increasing the fire risk.
The holiday season typically generates additional waste, prompting officials to encourage residents to recycle common items. This includes non-metallic wrapping paper, glass bottles, aluminum cans, paper bags, catalogs, and calendars. Reusing gift bags, ribbons, bows, newspapers, and plastic bags can significantly reduce waste, while minimizing excess packaging throughout the year helps keep materials out of landfills.
For further information on proper holiday recycling practices, residents can consult the city’s recycling guide. This initiative aims to foster a culture of sustainability within the community and ensure that Philadelphia continues to prioritize effective waste management during the holiday season.
