Recycle and win a new Ford Escape hybrid SUV

Some lucky recycler is going to win a new Ford Escape Hybrid, the first vehicle to combine SUV capability with the outstanding fuel economy and low environmental impact of a full hybrid. The vehicle is being awarded by America Recycles 2004 as part of its 8th annual campaign to encourage Americans to recycle and buy recycled products.

The CNMI is partnering with the national group in its campaign and is encouraging communities throughout the islands to stage events and activities to call attention to the importance of recycling and recycled products.

According to Enrique Dela Cruz of the Department of Public Works’ Solid Waste Management Division, entering the contest is just another reason to commit to recycling.

“Recycling is a personal commitment we all need to make,” Enrique said. “But if you make your commitment official by sending your pledge online at www.americarecyclesday.org stating how you plan to do more for the nation’s recycling efforts, you may win a Ford Escape Hybrid SUV. Your pledge will be added to others and a winner will be drawn in mid-December.”

Entrants must be at least 18 years of age to qualify for the drawing.

The recycling campaign is also awarding prizes to those under 18. The “youth grand prizes” are five Trek Model 4300 24-speed bicycles made from recycled aluminum. The bicycles are provided by Alcan Corp. As with the Ford Escape Hybrid, entry is gained by pledging to recycle and buy recycled.

To coincide with America Recycles 2004, the Lower Base Refuse Transfer Station is also having the “CNMI Recycling Contest” for both public and private schools. It will be based on which schools can collect the most recyclable materials, by weight (lbs.) per student, from each grade category and population.

Recyclable materials to be collected are aluminum cans and paper products such as office papers, cardboards, newspapers, magazines, and books. No oil or wax contaminated paper materials.

Cash prize awards are 1st ($500), 2nd ($350), and 3rd ($150) for each of the three grade categories: Elementary (Grades K-6), Junior (Grades 7-8), and High School (Grades 9-12). Contest begins on Nov. 1 and ends Nov. 11. Call DPW-Solid Waste Management Division at 322-2745/2760, fax at 322-2762, or email at recycle@vzpacific.net.

America Recycles 2004 is one of the most comprehensive recycling awareness campaigns in the nation. Each year millions of people become better informed about the advantages of recycling at home and buying recycled products as a result of the group’s efforts. Last year, thousands signed pledges to recycle and buy recycled. Local and state governments issue proclamations and resolutions in support of the program. Hundreds of events were staged to support the campaign in almost every state, and this year the CNMI is joining the campaign in recognition of Nov. 15 as America Recycles 2004.

The theme of this year’s campaign is It All Comes Back To You. The multiple meaning in the new theme is clear. By becoming an active recycler and seeking out and buying recycled products, you realize direct benefits through a cleaner environment and preservation of resources, and also extending the lifespan of our landfill. At the same time, your recycled products and materials may show up back in your home or car or work in the form of brand new products at competitive prices to those made from non-recycled materials. And a third meaning is the implication that is up to each of us to recycle and buy recycled products. It’s an activity that delivers benefits every time we participate.