Recycling at Sharefest a Huge Success

For the fifth year in a row, Sharefest was a great success. This unique event involves the effort of over 70 various organizations and accomplishes far more than providing an environmentally beneficial outlet for materials. Through voluntary efforts and more, it touches people’s hearts and lives. Will County is very proud to be a part of it. 

The County partnered with Sharefest this year to bring a household hazardous waste collection event and wide variety of recycling opportunities to the community.  Due to the cost of disposal of hazardous chemicals, the New Lenox Township partnered with the county to cover the expense.  Residents throughout the area showed their appreciation by bringing thousands of gallons of paint, automotive fluids, lawn and garden chemicals, etc.  Six hundred and six cars were surveyed as they awaited service.

Many of them and some folks without HHW items continued through the row of recycling opportunities.  A 20-yard scrap metal dumpster from All American Recycling was nearly full with everything from wire hangers and nails to car parts and siding.  Dart’s foam plastic recycling service took in over half a semi load of meat trays, take-out containers, cups and packing block material.  Vintage Tech’s box truck was filled, emptied and refilled by the end of the day with TVs, Computers, and all things electronic! However, the most surprising item was the wood recycling service provided by K. Hoving.  A 50-yard dumpster was filled to capacity with everything from tree trucks to fencing and treated landscape timbers.  This was the first time the County has offered wood recycling service to residents and the results were amazing with many people telling us they had saved these materials, wanting better option than landfilling.

Inside, volunteers lined tables with clothes, books, toys and more for reuse. The county offered one of the many presentations over the course of the day while, outside, a band played, entertaining all. Given the beautiful weather and amazing array of activities being performed, this was the best Sharefest, yet!