Columbus Residents Can Recycle Yard Signs and Compost Pumpkins Through November

Columbus residents have until the end of November to recycle their election yard signs and compost their pumpkins, as part of ongoing efforts to reduce waste and promote environmental sustainability. Since launching the pumpkin collection program four years ago, the city has successfully diverted over 35 tons of pumpkins from local landfills, marking a significant milestone in its waste management initiatives ¹².

In addition to the pumpkin collection, Columbus offers multiple drop-off locations for both pumpkins and yard signs, ensuring convenient access for all residents ¹². However, there are specific guidelines for what can be accepted. For instance, pumpkins and gourds must be intact or carved without candles, paint, or permanent markers to qualify for composting ¹². This ensures that the materials are suitable for the composting process and can be easily broken down into nutrient-rich soil.

Yard signs also have their own set of rules. Paper or cardboard signs can be placed directly in blue recycling containers, while plastic signs and metal wires need to be taken to convenience centers for proper disposal ¹². The Franklin County Board of Elections adds another option, providing a recycling container for yard signs at its parking lot until the end of November ¹².

Across the river, Upper Arlington residents have a bit more time to dispose of their election signs, with the Municipal Services Center accepting them until November 20th ¹². This extended period allows for a smoother transition after the election season, giving residents ample opportunity to participate in the recycling effort.

The importance of these recycling programs cannot be overstated. Yard signs, made from materials like plastic and metal, can persist in landfills for hundreds or even thousands of years if not properly recycled ³. By participating in these initiatives, Columbus residents contribute to reducing environmental impact and preserving natural resources for future generations.

What We Know

• Columbus has diverted over 35 tons of pumpkins from landfills since starting its pumpkin collection program four years ago ¹²
• Upper Arlington residents can recycle election signs at the Municipal Services Center until November 20th ¹²
• Columbus provides multiple drop-off locations for pumpkins and yard signs until November 29th ¹²
• Pumpkins and gourds must be intact or carved without candles, paint, or permanent markers to be accepted for composting ¹²
• Paper or cardboard yard signs can be placed in blue recycling containers ¹²
• Plastic signs and metal wires need to be taken to convenience centers ¹²
• The Franklin County Board of Elections provides a recycling container for yard signs at its parking lot until the end of November ¹²
• Yard signs can remain in landfills for hundreds or even thousands of years if not recycled ³