Windy City residents swap some paint
In November, Chicago opened its first permanent Household Chemical and Computer Recycling Center to collect and safely dispose of or recycle household hazardous chemicals. The 24,000-square-foot facility includes a Paint Exchange Room so people can swap old paint, and a separate room for computer equipment where ex-offenders are trained to repair and recycle electronics. In keeping with the city’s goal to construct new facilities to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design standards, the center was built using existing materials, features a green roof and a solar wall, and it recycles heat and retains stormwater. The $3.8 million project was funded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the Illinois Clean Energy Fund and the city, and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency helps pay for disposal of the chemicals collected.