While the system itself has been running for a few weeks, this morning's ceremonial opening of the recently renovated Materials Recycling Facility at the Central Landfill in Johnston was an important milestone for the state's continuing recycling efforts.

The event formally kicked off the new "Recycle Together RI" program, which allows Woonsocket residents to combine recyclables in the bins they already have, instead of separating the paper from plastic. The program was announced in Woonsocket about a week ago.

Gov. Lincoln Chafee and Lt. Gov. Elizabeth Roberts were among the state and local officials who attended this morning's event, which included a brief speaking program and a formal ribbon-cutting for the $17 million "single-stream" recycling system.

In the accompanying video, Chafee, Roberts, and Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corporation Executive Director Michael OConnell speak about the opening of the facility, while mayors from Johnston, Cranston, and East Providence offer their thoughts on how it will benefit their communities.

Wondering what is and isn't recyclable? Check out RIRRC's  A to Z Recyclopedia web page.