Wondering where to recycle some of those items you’ve found in your annual spring cleaning? The 2025 McHenry County Green Guide, now available online and in print, features the latest information on recycling appliances, electronics, motor oil, batteries, Styrofoam, and more.
New in the 19th edition of the publication is updated recycling tips for makeup; medicines and sharps; vape pens and cartridges; pet food bags; smoke and CO detectors; books, and VHS tapes. There is also information about recycling black plastic, the latex paint collection program, the community compost movement, BuyNothing groups, and more.
“It’s wonderful to discover and share new resources for our hard-to-recycle items,” said Kim Hankins, Director of the Sustainability Center at McHenry County College (MCC). “This guide is the result of incredible collaboration across our community, and we’re proud to make sustainable living more accessible for everyone in McHenry County.”
All categories have been updated with the latest recycling information, including tips on recycling plastic film and bags, paint, tires, bulbs, and more. Readers will also find details on multiple county-wide electronics collections and shredding events, including a household hazardous waste collection on June 7 at Prairie Ridge High School. Pre-registration is required for this event at www.mcdh.info.
There is also a listing of sustainability-related events coming in 2025, including information about MCC’s Green Living Expo, which will be returning this year at the College on November 1 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Watch for more information about the Green Living Expo here.
The Green Guide is available online and a printed version can be requested by emailing sustainability@mchenry.edu. Printed copies will also be available at local municipalities, township offices, and libraries. A fully translated Spanish version is also available online and printed versions can be requested via email.
For more information about the Green Guide or Sustainability Center, visit the Sustainability Center webpage or email sustainability@mchenry.edu.