Green Committee

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Recycling Center at Library

• Did you know that aside from being an information center, the Children’s Room is also a Recycling Center? Come down to the Children’s Room at the Port Washington Public Library and you can recycle the following items; new sneakers or gently used sneakers, plastic bottle caps, glue-sticks, plastic bottles and aluminum cans.  
• http://www.pwpl.org/childrensroom/coollinks/summer-reading-program/
   

Donate Your Used PC, Mac or Laptop:

• Comp4Kids, an IRS recognized 501(c)(3) charity, collects and refurbishes used computer equipment.  They then distribute these computers - FOR FREE - to low income families across Long Island, and the entire tristate area.  Comp4Kids improves the lives of children and young adults by providing these families with access to computers and the training necessary to implement this technology into their daily lives.  Comp4Kids works with numerous School Districts, Public Libraries, Pre-Schools, After School Programs, Special Education Schools and other charitable organizations which service at-risk children, families, and young adults.  For more information contact:
   
• www.Comp4Kids.org
  17 Crestwood Road, Port Washington, N.Y.  11050
  Tel: (516) 244-1809     
  Email: jonzim@optonline.net
  

Recycle Unwanted Books

• Now that the Sousa Book Exchange is over, you can drop any unwanted books that are in good shape at the Better World Booksdonation bin, located just outside of the Power Washington Public Library.  Better World Books is an organization that collects and sells books online to donate books and fund literacy initiatives worldwide.  
• http://www.betterworldbooks.com/info.aspx?f=facts
  

Frequently Asked Questions about Recycling and Waste:

• Q: How do I dispose of batteries and other e-waste?
  A: NY State no longer allows residents to dispose of batteries and e-waste in landfills. To find out where to dispose of these items check out Town of North Hempstead’s S.T.O.P. program.
  
• Q: How do I know what’s recyclable?
  A: Recycling includes glass, metals, plastics #1, #2, #4, #5 & #6 and paper (including newspaper, magazines, paper & hard cover books, phonebooks, junk mail and corrugated cardboard).  This document shows what you can and can’t recycle and how to prepare different items for recycling.
  
• Q: Where can I drop off my recyclables?
  A: To figure out how to recycle and where, follow this link.
  
• Q: What are some ways I can minimize my residential waste such as paints and pharmaceuticals?
  A: Town of North Hempstead’s S.T.O.P. program also takes care of household wastes like paint thinners, light bulbs and household cleaners. Check this list to see if what you have can be disposed of here.
  
• Q: How do I recycle old clothing and shoes?
  A: This web page lists all the different organizations on Long Island where gently used clothes can be donated.
  
• Q: Where can I get a recycling bin?
  A: This link shows where you can get a recycling bin.
  
  

Home Greening/Improvement Ideas:

• Q: How do I get a composting bin?
  A: The Town of North Hempstead has a composting cooperative, information about which can be found here.
  
• Q: Who do I contact to get a rainwater barrel?
  A: Rain barrels can be picked up through Town of North Hempstead’s Recycle the Rain program.
  
• Q: How can I find out which products are safe to use on my lawn (for children and the environment)?
  A: This web page has information from NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
  
• Q: Where can I find ways to make my home more energy efficient?
  A: Follow this link to find out ways you can green your home.
  
• Q: When am I permitted to water my lawn?
  A: Nassau County Ordinance prohibits lawn watering between 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Even numbered addresses and non-numbered homes can water only on even numbered days; odd numbered addresses can water only on odd numbered days. For this information and other water conservation tips click here.
  
• Q: As a homeowner, how do I assess the pros and cons of solar panels? 
  A: Check out this great guide to determine what is right for you Solar Guide
   

Simple Ways to Make a Difference!
 

• 1.      Reduce, Reuse, Compost THEN Recycle
  2.      Use a reusable shopping bag
  3.      Use a refillable bottle
  4.      Change the way you get around - Instead of taking your car, try walking, riding a bike or carpooling
  5.      Change the bulbs - Exchange your regular light bulbs for fluorescent bulbs in your home (they not only use less energy, but they last longer than traditional bulbs)
  6.      Turn off the lights when you’re not in the room - This is really simple and easy to do and makes a big difference
  7.      Turn off & unplug the electronics – Electronics STILL use electricity even if turned off if left plugged in
  8.      How can you save water? Water your lawn every other day during spring and summer, at the coolest time of day! (Before 10 AM or after 4PM – Optimal Time = 5AM)
  9.      Do not leave the faucet running while brushing your teeth or washing the dishes
  10.   Take quick showers instead of baths
  11.   Only use the dishwasher or washing machine when it’s full
  12.   Repair leaky faucets and toilets

In observance of Green Awareness Week, the Green Committee has compiled information and tips on how you can be more green at home and in our community by reducing, reusing and recycling. 

• The week culminates with arts and crafts and a screening of Disney's "Rio", which is being presented by Schreiber's Tree Hugging Club.
  
• To learn about ways you can help, please click here.
  
• To find out about some unknown facts about recycling, please click here.
  
• To learn more or to RSVP for the "Rio" screening on 2/10, 7pm, Schreiber (choir room), please contact allisonwinter8@gmail.com