BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — According to Kirsti Hunt at Modern Disposal, there has been quite the change in trash pickup due to COVID-19.
"There's been a 30% decrease in commercial trash... and a 5% increase in residential," Hunt said.
As Modern services approximately 250,000 homes, that means that a 5% increase is like adding another 12,500 homes to the route. To help with that, Modern is asking for people to help their employees out when they put trash to the curb.
"Use soap and water or alcohol based cleaners to wipe off the handles or tops of the containers," Hunt said. "Make sure all of the bags in the containers are sealed to avoid leaking."
All employees are wearing gloves and face masks to keep them safe, but as they are coming in contact with various substances, cleaning the bins can go a long way into ensuring their safety.
Customers are also advised to stagger how much trash is being brought out.
*TO NOTE: the trash collectors in the story are from the City of Buffalo, not Modern Disposal.