BOARDMAN, Ohio - Recycling is designed to protect the environment, and on this Earth Day, it seems that now more than ever before people in the Mahoning Valley are stepping up to reduce, reuse and recycle.

For Sissy Simons of Howland recycling is a part of everyday life, and it's an obligation to protect the Earth for future generations.

"We've become such a throwaway society. You can call me a Hippie from the '70s if you want to, but we do need to do something to protect our Earth," Simons said.

On this Earth Day, the Mahoning County Green Team is proud to say recycling has increased, including one of their manager's Kim Lewis.

"Actually between 2017 and 2018 we saw a 10% increase in our recycling rate.  Good job everybody," Lewis said.

It's all about practicing three simple words, reduce, reuse and recycle.

One issue that seems to need clarification is the recycling of glass. "Ever since glass recycling began, it's always just been bottles and jars.  I guess in spite of our best efforts; sometimes people still don't know. We're always trying to get the word out, and we'd be happy to help anybody with their questions,"  Lewis said.

According to the Green Team, contamination is the number one obstacle to recycling.  While they say cardboard is perfect for recycling, the plastic that may be wrapped around should be considered a plastic bag and should be removed and not placed in a recycling bin.

The Mahoning County Green Team holds special event recycling for other items like appliances, electronics, and tires.
For more information check out the Mahoning County Green Team on Facebook or www.greenteam.com.