STARKVILLE — A new recycling program will arrive in Starkville this fall.
Recyclops, an Uber-like technology company, will offer curbside recycling services to Starkville residents beginning the third week of September. Recyclops uses local drivers to pickup recyclables from people’s houses.
Vice President of Sales Dennis Wise said his company operates in more than 160 municipalities and is excited for Starkville to be the next.
“We feel that what we are doing is providing a public service,” Wise said. “Having curbside recycling is one of those things that really should be available no matter what. In these places that it’s not, we feel that we’re offering a public service.”
Through the company’s website, individuals can sign up for services or become a driver. For $12 every other week or $20 every week, individuals can pay for pickup.
Initial outreach with the city began in March. Wise said 63 customers have already registered for Recyclops, and he hopes to have more than 100 by the start date. There is no maximum number for how many people can utilize these services.
Products that can be recycled include paper, plastics, cardboard, metal cans and newsprint but not glass. A customer just bags up their recyclables and places them on the curb.
Earlier this year, Starkville restarted its own recycling program with a drop-off box at Douglas L. Conner Drive. It discontinued its curbside recycling program in September 2020 after it became financially unfeasible to operate.
Wise said his company gives people who might not can take their recyclables to Starkville’s drop-off center the ability to recycle, such as elderly people or new mothers. He said Oktibbeha County residents who do not live within city limits can also utilize services, but the monthly fee may be higher.
“As an environmental firm, we want to get as many people recycling in America as possible,” Wise said. “In the case of Starkville, we are 100 percent in support of their drop-off centers. The problem is, not everybody can do a dropoff center. Our service is in real need in municipalities.”
Ward 5 Alderman Hamp Beatty, who was highly involved in restarting the city’s recycling program, said he supports Recyclops coming to town and believes it is a great option for individuals who might not be able to go to the drop-off center.
“We have the drop-off site for people who want to do that, but now we have this other option,” Beatty said. “I think it’s a nice option for people who want curbside. My wife and I actually might be two new customers.”
Mayor Lynn Spruill echoed approval saying this private sector option will meet some residents’ recycling needs.
“I am pleased that this option will be available to the residents who are dedicated to a curbside recycling program,” Spruill said.
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