Years of planning, partnership, and community input came full circle this month as a ribbon cutting celebrated the opening of a dedicated glass recycling bin in Macomb. Guided by experts from the University of Illinois Extension, this sustainability initiative responds directly to resident feedback from an Extension-led community survey that highlighted the need for improved recycling options.
“In Macomb, there’s recycling, but it’s co-mingled,” said JoAnn Hairston-Jones, co-chair of the environmental committee for the Macomb Women’s Club. “We know that when glass is co-mingled with cardboard, both are contaminated, and it ends up in the landfill.”
This initiative is the result of a successful partnership between Illinois Extension, the City of Macomb, and the Macomb Women’s Club. The newly installed purple Ripple Glass bin, now available at Farm King on East Jackson Street, presents residents with a cleaner, more sustainable option for glass recycling.
Two grants, secured by the Macomb Women’s Club from the Glass Recycling Foundation and the Felheimer Foundation, provided the funds necessary to purchase the bin and construct a concrete storage bunker, ensuring that glass collected is clean, properly stored, and ready for reuse or processing.
Community members are encouraged to use the bin responsibly. A full list of acceptable and restricted items is posted on the bin to guide community use. Items not accepted include mirrors, televisions, light bulbs, dishware, and laminated glass.
The launch of this project exemplifies Illinois Extension’s commitment to helping local communities turn research and outreach into meaningful action for environmental sustainability. This collaborative effort not only addresses local environmental concerns but also empowers residents to participate more effectively in waste reduction.
