The library has created a resource guide to help you live a more sustainable life. Find out about various recycling programs, ways to reuse items, composting, and more.
Learn about sustainability initiatives in Forest Park with Jessica Voogd (Commissioner of Public Property) and Karen Rozmus (Environmental Control Commission) during this previously filmed virtual info session. (August 2021)
Recycling
Check out this video featuring tips on recycling right and reducing waste from Cook County Department of Environment & Sustainability’s Community Outreach Coordinator, Kate Carney.
- Cook County’s Green Guide Library (Cook County info on recycling, hazardous waste drop off, etc.)
- Waste, Recycling and Reduction Management in Cook County (learn where waste and recycling go in Cook County)
- Cook County Environment and Sustainability (Cook County sustainability hub including info on solar power, energy efficiency, etc.)
- Conserve Cook County Pledge (ideas of how individuals can combat climate change)
- Tips for Saving Energy and Money at Your Home
- Recycling Drop-off Centers – Solid Waste Agency of Cook County
- Illinois Recycling Association
- Household Hazardous Waste
- Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful (various recycling programs including clothes, Christmas trees, medication, etc.)
- Illinois EPA Interactive Curbside Bin Recycling Guide
- Battery Recycling
- United Scrap Metal, Inc.
- Find Recycling Locations Near Me
- TerraCycle (find recycling programs with various companies)
Village Services & Info
- Forest Park Public Works (in charge of the village’s recycling program)
- Forest Park Reuse and Recycling (village specific recycling information)
- Service requests
- Tree trimming and inquiries: Phone: 708-366-4876
- List of approved trees
Water
- Metropolitan Water Reclamation
- MWR Green Guide(how to set up rain barrels, etc.)
- Order Rain Barrels
Waste
Composting
- Residential Food Scrap Composting (a guide for Illinois Municipalities)
Reduce/Reuse
- Reuse Depot
- Repair Cafe
- Ifixit
- The Salvation Army – Oak Park
- Goodwill Store and Donation Center – North Riverside
- Sugarcup Trading – Oak Park
- Kelsey Resale Boutique – La Grange
- Divine Consign Furniture – North Riverside
- The Economy Shop – Oak Park
Support Local Farms
Apps