RI Resource Recovery Wants to Help Rhode Islanders Recycle More

August 1, 2019 5:39 pm

By: Tim Studebaker

JOHNSTON, R.I. (WLNE) – Ryan Lambert is incredibly passionate about recycling. He works at Rhode Island Resource Recovery in Johnston, going above and beyond to make sure every Rhode Islander that comes here knows how to recycle properly.

Lambert says, “Just you know, giving everybody a good smile. Putting a smile on people’s faces as they come through.”

He knows recycling is the key to keeping the landfill from reaching capacity, which isn’t far off.

RI Resource Recovery Education & Outreach Manager Krystal Noiseux says, “We have about 15 years left before we reach capacity for our current permitted space.”

That will leave Rhode Island searching for other options.

Noiseux says, “Placing trash on rail or on barge and sending it out of state to places where there is more landfill capacity.”

That could get expensive, but we can delay the inevitable by trashing less and recycling more like Styrofoam, motor oil, car batteries, and tires.

These are examples of items you can recycle by bringing them directly to the facility, but can’t recycle curbside. They also accept electronics.

Some items do come with a recycling fee, and that’s the kind of thing Lambert can help you with.

Lambert says, “A good feeling of being part of a greater effort and teamwork.”

He’ll greet you with a smile on his face, ready to answer all your questions.

If you can’t make it to Johnston, check with your city or town to see if they have a similar program. Visit RI Resource Recovery online for more information: https://www.rirrc.org/