It's almost time to start compiling that Christmas shopping list. With the current economic and environmental situations, a great gift idea is one that can help protect the planet and save the recipient some money each year. How about a compost bin?

Thurston County Solid Waste has partnered with the Master Gardener Foundation of Thurston County to provide subsidized compost bins for Thurston County residents. The goal is to reduce the amount of materials going to the landfill and assist residents with home composting. The Earth Machine compost bin is $40 (an $86 value) and the Biostack bin is $60 (a $140 value). There is a limit of three bins per household. Cost for all bins includes tax and delivery and they are shipped to anyone living within Thurston County. 

Organic materials, such as food waste and yard trimmings, make up a large percentage of typical household garbage, though they are very recyclable. By diverting these materials to the compost bin, you can reduce your level of trash service, which can save money. Composting is a great alternative to burning woody debris which is now illegal in many areas. Adding the finished compost to the garden provides plant nutrients, increases plants resistance to disease, improves soil texture, and reduces water needs. Some people have a misconception that composting is hard to do, takes a lot of time and effort, is smelly, or attracts rodents and pests. In reality, it's a quick, easy and clean process. The Master Composters provide free composting workshops, spring through fall, that provide step-by-step instructions. Inexpensive compost guides, such as the ones sold by the Foundation, provide easy to understand instructions. Just give it a try and you'll see how simple it really is.

While you are buying bins for gifts, don't forget to get yourself one too. For details and ordering information, visit the Foundation's website, or  email, or call  the Foundation at (360) 481-4204. Compost bins, books, and compost thermometers are also available from the Foundation

Electronics Recycling in Thurston County

"Tech trash" - old or obsolete cellular phones, rechargeable batteries, ink jet cartridges, televisions, computer components, monitors, appliances, etc. The good news is that working items can be reused and that many of the materials in e-waste can be recycled or refurbished. 

THURSTON COUNTY WASTE AND RECOVERY CENTER in Lacey - accepts TVs and monitors for recycling 

THURSTON COUNTY COMMUNITY RECYCLE DAYS - Take CD & DVD players, VCRs, stereo systems, radios, speakers, cell phones, computers, televisions, monitors and other electronics to these Thurston County Solid Waste events. 

Call 360-357-2491 or go to http://www.co.thurston.wa.us/wwm/

Compact fluorescent light disposal in Thurston County 

As you know, compact fluorescent lights (CFL) contain mercury. There has been a lot of press lately about proper disposal. Home Depot is now taking them for free.

Please visit the Thurston County website for more local locations that accept the bulbs and info on what to do if a bulb breaks in your home.