So, What Happens to All Those Cans Anyway?

Ever wonder what happens to the kajillion beer cans and soda bottles that get emptied at the Monona Community Festival? Wonder no more, here is the short answer: They get recycled. Longer answer from the Committee's web site:

"January 2009

Monona Festival Committee Recycling Plan

This letter is an attempt to clear up repeated questions and concerns expressed by the community regarding recycling at the Monona Community Festival. We believe that these concerns persist because our recycling is not obvious to the casual observer. As you walk around the grounds whether enjoying the Art Fair the Hole in One Contest, or sipping a cool one in the entertainment tent there are no “Recycling “ bins. No blue topped containers with the clear bags underneath.

So, where do I put my can or bottle once it is empty? Actually, we prefer the ground. Then step on it. Make it nice and flat. That’s the ticket. Recycling would be very obvious if you were to find yourself on the festival grounds July 4 and 5 from 5-10 am. At that time you will see our cleanup. Each trash can is dumped onto the ground, emptied, and the trash is separated from the metals, the metals from plastic, plastic from cardboard. (Truly, a great source of fun on a hot July morning, the real glamour of the job.) The metals (aluminum) is compressed and hauled away (it’s the most valuable) and the plastics are placed in a dumpster provided by the cities trash/recycling suppler. The only cardboard that is not recycled – and we DO throw this away – Gasp! Is the spent cases of fireworks –
just in case there is a live shell still inside. I think you will forgive us on that one.

We recycle this way, and have for years, because of our experience. Not everyone recycles; especially some individuals who have spend the day celebrating our nation’s independence, if you get my drift. So we have to go through these processes anyway. Why no Blue topped containers with the clear bags under? Two factors: Volunteers, or the lack of, and 12,000 empty beer cans
and 3,000 soda bottles.

Happy Fourth of July!"