Smithtown residents now have a groundbreaking opportunity to engage in eco-conscious practices thanks to a partnership between the Town of Smithtown and Trex Company. This collaboration aims to revolutionize plastic recycling efforts by introducing a dedicated recycling hub at the Municipal Services Facility (MSF) on 85 Old Northport Road in Kings Park.
The initiative is part of Trex's NexTrex® recycling program, a nationwide endeavor focused on sourcing materials for composite decking from reclaimed content. This includes a mix of industrial wood scrap, sawdust, and recycled polyethylene (PE) plastic film, aligning with Trex's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Mike Englemann, the Town of Smithtown Solid Waste Coordinator, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "This collaboration with Trex underscores our dedication to environmental stewardship and offers our community a practical solution for responsibly disposing of plastic waste."
The NexTrex program is designed to accept various plastic film items such as grocery and retail bags, bread bags, packaging wraps, and more. Trex's stringent recycling guidelines ensure that materials are clean, dry, and free from contamination, maximizing their potential for upcycling into durable outdoor living products.
Stephanie Hicks, Trex Company's materials and recycling programs manager, emphasized the program's accessibility and environmental impact. "The new recycling hub at Smithtown MSF is conveniently located and encourages eco-minded residents to recycle at their convenience," Hicks noted.
By participating in the NexTrex program, residents not only contribute to reducing plastic waste but also support a global movement toward environmental responsibility. The initiative aligns with Trex's long-standing commitment to sustainability, having diverted over five billion pounds of discarded PE plastic from landfills over the past three decades.
The partnership between Smithtown and Trex signifies a significant step toward creating a more sustainable and eco-friendly community. Englemann highlighted the ease of participation, stating, "With the NexTrex program, participating is easy. Simply separate plastic film items from other recyclables and drop them off at our MSF collection site. We'll work with Trex to do the rest."
Residents interested in learning more about the NexTrex program and the materials accepted can visit NexTrex.com or Trex.com for comprehensive information.