The City of Middletown Public Works Department is encouraging residents to not put pumpkins in their trash. Pumpkins are a valuable resource and should not be tossed out with the trash. Here are some options for pumpkin recycling:
1. Compost it! Pumpkins can go in backyard composting bins and be turned into "black gold" humus for gardens. You might want to remove the seeds unless you want pumpkins growing next year.
2. No compost at home? Bring pumpkins to the Recycling Center and dump them in the food waste container. Pumpkins will be turned into clean energy and compost.
3. If you have space in your yard, pumpkins can be great food for wildlife. Cut the pumpkin up if you can to make it easier for small animals.
4. Painted pumpkins should not be recycled. If you can't remove the paint, they do need to go in the trash.
The City of Middletown is encouraging residents to reduce their waste as much as possible. Trash disposal contributes to climate change, environmental pollution and health problems. The more we reduce and recycle, the healthier our environment!