Monroe, NC Earth Day/Arbor Day Celebration

The City of Monroe and Union County, NC are extending an invitation the public to the joint Earth Day/Arbor Day Celebration. The event is a free opportunity for individuals and families to recycle and become aware of the positive steps they can take towards a greener future. The event will be held April 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Downtown Monroe.

The City Hall parking lot at corner of Crowell Street and Charlotte Avenue will be utilized for a recycling drop-off area. Accepted items include:

Electronics, tires, and household hazardous waste: such as paint, cooking oils and grease, aerosols, general cleaning agents, drain cleaner, hydrogen peroxide, isopropyl alcohol, mildew remover, nail polish and remover, herbicides, fertilizers, insecticides, insect repellent, rodent killer, compact fluorescent bulbs, asphalt/ roofing tar, glues/adhesives, paint, paint thinner, paint and varnish remover, strippers, solvents, flammable oils, gasoline, kerosene, antifreeze, car wax, pool chemicals, used motor oil, and batteries.

“This is a chance for everyone to get rid of recyclable items and hazardous materials in an environmentally safe manner,”

said Lisa Thompson, a planner with the City of Monroe. “There will be a courtesy gas cap check included when someone drops off an item to be recycled. If it’s found to be defective, the gas cap will be replaced for free.” It’s estimated that 17 percent of vehicle gas caps are either damaged or missing, allowing 147 million gallons of gasoline to vaporize every year. “Don’t miss the chance to get yours checked and replaced,” Thompson added.

The downtown plaza and a section of Main Street in front of the old courthouse will be full of lessons, educational booths, games, food, and hands-on activities for children. Fifth-grade students of East, Marshville, Waxhaw, Kensington, Marvin and Rea View elementary schools will be reading their contest winning poems. You will also have the opportunity to learn about natural plants, tree care, recycling, green products, rain barrels, and conservation.

“Come find out how to save energy and money,” said Thompson. “This is an event for the entire family.”

Learning to make smart decisions and living in a healthier, more sustainable and economical manner is what this event is about.

For a complete list of items accepted check the City Web site www.monroenc.org.

To volunteer or learn more about this event call Lisa Thompson at (704) 282-5797 or email at lthompson@monroenc.org.

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