Zero Waste Day returns July 27 in Tempe

Clean out your attics, closets and garages of unwanted items and dispose of them for reuse, recycling and repurposing at Tempe’s next Zero Waste Day on July 27 at the Tempe Fire Training Center.

From 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 1340 E. University Drive, the city will host its recurring Zero Waste Day event, collecting Tempe residents' items to divert waste from landfills. The last event in April saw 675 cars drop 67,061 pounds of waste that was diverted from the landfill, according to a city release.

These free, drive-thru events help residents recycle items not permitted in garbage containers and blue recycling containers.

If you haven’t attended an event, clean the house and come see what it’s all about. The city also shared that the drive-thru event is typically less busy between 9 and 11 a.m.

The following items are not accepted at Tempe’s Zero Waste Days: commercial or industrial products, hazardous waste, plastic bags and wraps, mattresses, car seats, bulk trash, small foam items (foam peanuts, cups, plates, takeout containers or egg cartons), pet medications or pets for surrender.

Items delivered in trash bags will not be accepted for health and safety reasons.

Proof of Tempe or Guadalupe residency is required. Accepted identification forms include a current driver’s license, lease/rental agreement, mail with name and address, most recent Tempe Water utility bill, or student ID from educational institutions located within Tempe.

Find a complete list of accepted items, drop-off procedures and detailed event information at tempe.gov/ZeroWaste.

For those who cannot make it, Tempe’s Household Products Collection Center offers a year-round drive-thru for dropping off household hazardous waste and other recyclable products, according to the release.

Visit tempe.gov/HPCC for information on operating hours and a full list of accepted items.