Stay Green after the Holidays
The holidays are over, but don’t throw those decorations away! Recycle your old and unwanted strings of lights for free! View the list of locations and what items are accepted.

Donate your holiday tree to the Lake County Forest Preserves, and we’ll recycle it into wood chips for trails and landscaping at forest preserves throughout Lake County. Bring your tree to a drop-off site now through Feb. 1.

Dispose of Unwanted, Expired Prescriptions Safely
Dispose of your unused, unwanted and expired prescription drugs properly at disposal boxes across Lake County. The service is free! Find a drug disposal box near you, and learn what is not accepted.

 
Donate Clothing and Textiles
Donate your new and gently used clothing and textiles to be reused, along with worn or stained items, which will be recycled. There are several collection bins in Lake County to donate your women’s, men’s and children’s clothing. View accepted and unacceptable items.


Reuse-A-Shoe
Donate new and gently used shoes to SWALCO’s Reuse-A-Shoe program. Individuals or families with a few pairs can visit the drop-off locations. Groups or families who have a large number of shoes or who want to collect them can contact Merleanne Rampale at SWALCO at 847-377-4954 to set up a seasonal collection site or drive. View acceptable and unacceptable items.


Remember the R’s
Just as important as reusing or recycling is purchasing eco-friendly items, including those that contain recycled content.  There are numerous markets out there, and even your local retailer offers eco-friendly options. Visit SWALCO’s website to learn more.