Summer Tips from the Oneida-Herkimer Solid Waste Authority
Summer is here. The grill is out, the neighbors are over, and the kids are finally off their screens. But between the coolers, the condiment bottles, the solo cups, and the leftover charcoal bags, a single backyard party can generate a surprising amount of waste — most of which doesn't need to go to a landfill at all.
The Oneida-Herkimer Solid Waste Authority offers the following tips to minimize waste, increase recycling and save money on your summer parties.
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Consider Buying in Bulk
The easiest waste to deal with is waste you never create. While making your grocery list, swap individually packaged drinks for pitchers of lemonade, iced tea, or infused water — your wallet and your recycling bin will thank you. Buy ketchup, mustard, and chips in the largest sizes available rather than single-serve packets and snack bags. The bulk option almost always costs less per serving and generates a fraction of the packaging. -
Encourage Recycling
Most people want to recycle — they just need it to be easy. Place a clearly labeled recycling bin directly next to every garbage can at your party. When the two containers are side by side, recycling rates go up noticeably. And give your guests a quick heads-up: all plastic bottles, cups, and containers can go in the recycling bin. Solo cups included. The exceptions are Styrofoam, prescription medicine bottles, and motor oil containers — those stay out.
We offer cardboard recycling bins that can be recycled after use. Contact us to request them. -
Skip the Styrofoam Entirely
In 2026, there's really no reason to reach for a Styrofoam plate. It cannot be recycled, it doesn't break down, and better alternatives are everywhere. Reusable plates and bowls are always the best choice. If you're going disposable, look for paper plates with recycled content or certified compostable options — they break down significantly faster and are widely available at local retailers. -
The Propane Tank Rule Everyone Forgets
Every summer, propane tanks end up in recycling bins and garbage cans across Oneida and Herkimer Counties — and every single one of them is a safety hazard and a disposal problem. Whether it’s a small one-pound camping cylinder or a full-size 100-pound tank, propane tanks cannot go in your recycling bin or garbage. Drop them off — at no charge — at the Authority's EcoDrop in Utica or Rome, where they'll be handled properly. You can also exchange or refill propane tanks at participating locations. Visit ohswa.org for current hours and directions before you head out.
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Grill Smarter This Season
Keep your grill lid down while cooking. It holds heat more efficiently, cooks food more evenly, and uses less fuel, which means that the propane tank lasts longer. When it's time to clean up, skip the chemical sprays. A little baking soda on a warm grill gets the job done without the harsh fumes or phosphate-heavy cleaners. -
Handle Leftovers
Pack up food in reusable containers before the party winds down. If you need to cover something quickly, reach for aluminum foil rather than plastic wrap — clean aluminum foil is recyclable and goes right in your bin. Plastic wrap, by contrast, cannot be recycled curbside and should be avoided whenever possible. -
Rechargeable Batteries: Don't Trash Them
Bluetooth speakers, flashlights, fans, kids' toys — summer runs on batteries. If yours are rechargeable, they cannot go in the trash or your recycling bin under New York State law. The good news is that drop-off is free and easy. Visit ohswa.org/ecodrop for a full list of local locations. Standard alkaline batteries — the ones you can't recharge — can go in your regular household trash. -
Stuff Adds Up
Send digital invitations instead of paper. Use whatever you already have around the house for decorations rather than buying single-use party supplies. Choose organic produce and locally sourced foods when you can — less packaging, less distance traveled, and usually better flavor off the grill.
As summer wraps up, proper disposal and recycling help keep our communities clean and reduce landfill waste. You can also visit ohswa.org/am-i-recyclable to quickly check how to dispose of common household items.