Hillsborough County is leading the way to better recycling habits, and it starts with a new pilot program in partnership with Goodwill-Suncoast. Hillsborough County Solid Waste Management implemented a Donation & Waste Diversion Pilot Program in September where residents have already dropped off 2,000-plus durable and reusable items. The goal is to keep these items out of the landfill where they can get new life in someone else’s home.
“We’re hoping this sets us apart from other counties,” said Danny Gallagher, Hillsborough County recycling coordinator. “We want to be a leader in this space. There’s got to be a better alternative disposal to just the trash. Can we recycle it, compost it, reuse it, donate it, repair it? That’s what we’re trying to do as a county and it’s an awesome first step.” Items such as clothing, shoes, accessories, home décor items, kitchen wares, tools, toys, small furniture items, and electronics can be collected at the South County Solid Waste Facility, 13000 U.S. Highway 41, Gibsonton.
Items that won’t be accepted include mattresses, televisions, computer monitors, appliances, large furniture, or any broken or damaged items deemed not saleable. Alternatively, the facility also operates as a Community Collection Center and accepts disposal of washers, dryers, refrigerators, mattresses, furniture, televisions, computers, tires, paint, and yard waste for Hillsborough County Solid Waste customers. “For us, this partnership is a win-win,” said Drew Przybyszewski, director of marketing and public relations for Goodwill – Suncoast. “Whenever we can talk about our waste reduction story and helping keep items out of landfills, it’s an exciting piece of our story for us.”