Green Gathering speaker will discuss Westmoreland recycling changes

Recent changes in many curbside recycling programs will be the focus of the next Green Gathering, set for Sept. 22 in downtown Greensburg.

As with the inaugural gathering in June, this second meeting will provide an opportunity for environmentally-minded citizens to network in an informal setting. There is no admission charge for the event, which will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. at Major Stokes restaurant, 108 W. Pittsburgh St.

Driven by changes in markets for recyclable materials, many refuse haulers that service community recycling programs no longer accept some items, including glass containers and plastic bags.

At the Green Gathering, Natalie Reese, program director of Westmoreland Cleanways and Recycling, will bring attendees up to speed with new recycling guidelines.

To help area residents who want to recycle glass, Westmoreland Cleanways has begun accepting drop-off of specified types of glass during regular operating hours at its recycling center in Unity Township.

Residents may drop off clear, green or brown glass bottles and jars — sorted by color — at no cost at 113 Innovative Lane, off Route 30 — noon to 5 p.m. Monday and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday and Friday. The center also is open 8:30 a.m. to noon the second Saturday of each month.

Metal lids should be removed from glass containers and discarded. Paper labels need not be removed, but the glass should be cleansed of food residue. Blue bottles won’t be accepted.

The nonprofit is offering the glass recycling service in partnership with Bradish Glass of Hempfield.

Westmoreland Cleanways has stressed that recyclable items placed in a curbside container must not be bagged in plastic bags, which get caught up in equipment at recycling facilities.

Bagging recyclables previously has been discouraged by waste haulers, but it is now prohibited by most, Westmoreland Cleanways Executive Director Ellen Keefe has noted.

The Green Gathering also will feature live music, and light snacks will be provided. Attendees have the option of purchasing additional food and drinks and will be eligible to win a hand-painted, cast concrete garden leaf.

The event is sponsored by the Greensburg Group of Ten, a citizens organization that addresses environmental concerns and is an initiative of the Clean Air Council.