By the end of the month, all residents living in single-family homes in The Woodlands will have new recycling containers delivered to them at no cost as part of a new enhanced trash service being offered by Waste Management.

Earlier this month, Waste Management began delivering the 96-gallon recycling containers to the community, replacing the 18-gallon containers that were formerly being used. Residents are encouraged to begin utilizing the containers immediately.

"By maximizing recycling, the new carts are saving the community nearly $1 million on contracted waste services," said Lynne Aldrich, manager of environmental services for the township.

The new bins allow for more recyclables in curbside collection. The project is part of Waste Management's new state-of-the-art sorting facility in Houston. According to the township, the facility utilizes optical scanners and computer technology, which allows for more economical and efficient processing.

The efforts also enables single stream recycling, meaning all recyclables can be placed together in the cart; no separating or bagging is necessary. Only clean products are recyclable. Containers should be rinsed and no food-stained products will be accepted.