(PITTSBURGH) Dec. 19, 2011     Following the success of November’s curbside leaf and yard debris collection, totaling over 300 tons of compostable material, Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today encouraged residents to take advantage of the City’s single-stream curbside recycling and Christmas tree recycling programs this holiday season.

“The holidays are a time of great joy – and with that, often great consumption,” Ravenstahl said. “With our convenient single-stream recycling program, City residents can easily go ‘green,’ especially during the holidays.  I encourage all residents to reuse or recycle their gift boxes and wrapping paper, and to take their Christmas tree to a recycling drop-off location.”

Christmas trees may be dropped off for composting from Jan. 3, to Jan. 31, Mon. through Sat., from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the following locations:

• 2nd Division P.W. (East End) –North Dallas Ave at Hamilton Ave: 412-665-3609
• 3rd Division P.W. (Hazelwood) –Melanchton Ave., off the 5200 block of 2nd Ave: 412-422-6524
• 5th Division P.W. (West End) –1330 Hassler St., off of Hershel & Steuben (next to Herschel Park): 412-937-3054
• Environmental Services Lot (Strip District) –3001 Railroad Street (next to the former City Tow Pound Location): 412-255-2773

Trees must have all ornaments, lights and stands removed.  No trees in plastic bags will be accepted. Christmas trees that are set out at the curb for collection will be collected by the refuse crews as regular refuse and taken to the landfill. For more information contact the City’s recycling division at 412-255-2631.

With single-stream recycling, all recyclables – including newspapers, magazines, phone books, glass jars,cans, wrapping paper and boxes – can be placed in the same blue bag or bright blue container.  Cardboard must be broken down, tied together and placed next to recyclables. For a list of all recyclable materials, visit the City's website..

The November curbside leaf and yard debris collection by the City of Pittsburgh collected over 300 tons of compostable material.  The leaves and yard debris will be turned into compost by the City’s contractor, Diamond Mulch.  Much of the material will be returned to the City next year to be used in community parks.  Residents are reminded to look for the upcoming 2012 newsletter and recycling schedule for spring and fall 2012 collection dates.