Election waste can include campaign signs, printed materials, single-use promotional items and campaign event waste. Austin residents, campaign staff and volunteers should consider ways to minimize election waste by recycling or properly disposing of campaign materials, which helps divert items from the landfill. Properly disposing of these materials and/or offering reusable promotional items can help Austin move closer to zero waste.
- Campaign sign recycling
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Yard signs are not recyclable in your blue recycling cart and must be processed separately. The Recycle and Reuse Drop-off Center accepts corrugated metal, plastic and foam yard signs year-round. Appointments are required to drop off campaign yard signs or all other recyclable items.
Temporary drop-off station for campaign signs at the Recycle and Reuse Drop-off Center
During the election season, you can dispose of campaign yard signs at a temporary drop-off station at the center, which will be open one week before the presidential election and remain open one month after the presidential election. No appointment is required to use the campaign sign drop-off station, which is located outside of the center.
Disposing of wooden stakes
- Untreated wood should be composted in your green cart.
- Treated or painted wood can be donated, reused or placed in your trash cart.
- Reducing election waste
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It’s important to properly dispose of election materials to keep recyclable material out of landfills and litter off our streets and out of our waterways.
How residents can reduce waste
- Only accept promotional items you can use and avoid accepting ones you'll throw in the trash.
- Scan a QR code or photograph website information instead of taking a flyer or brochure.
- If you take a paper flyer (or have a non-laminated poster or receive a mailer or brochure in the mail), recycle it in your blue cart.
- Metal campaign buttons can be recycled at the Recycle and Reuse Drop-off Center. Appointments are required.
- Yard signs can also be repurposed for garage sales, house parties or other events.
How campaign organizations can reduce waste
- Purchase or print only the number of materials you can hand out.
- Choose materials that can be reused, recycled or composted.
- Recycle extra marketing materials.
- Avoid promotional items or marketing materials that can’t be reused or recycled. For example, laminated posters, PVC banners and promotional items like stickers and stress balls can’t be recycled.
Use the What Do I Do With… tool if you’re unsure whether a material is reusable, recyclable or compostable.
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