New app designed to make recycling easier

A new app has launched locally to provide instant clarity around recycling.

Launched by the local nonprofit BINfluencer in conjunction with Earth Day, the free mobile Waste Directory App is designed to make recycling easier and reduce landfill waste across Sioux Falls and surrounding communities.

With a few taps, users can:

• Search any item to see if it can be recycled curbside.
• Snap a photo to identify items using the app’s visual search tool.
• Get disposal instructions based on local guidelines.
• Find reuse, drop-off or donation locations for items that don’t belong in the bin.

“People want to recycle right, but it can be confusing if you’re new to Sioux Falls or just aren’t sure what goes in the bin,” said Marissa Begley, BINfluencer board member. “This app makes it easy to figure it out — no more guessing.”

The app, called BINfluencer, is available now on the Apple App Store and at thebinfluencers.org. It’s in the process of being added to Google Play.

The app is being embedded on local recycling and hauler websites to promote consistent education across the region. BINfluencer encourages schools, nonprofits, haulers, businesses and city governments to share the tool and help spread the word.

“This tool was made for our community,” said Stephanie Gongopoulos, BINfluencer board president.

“We’re just getting started, and we’d love to feature more local partners and grow the impact together.”

As a special Earth Day celebration, anyone who downloads the free BINfluencer app or answers a recycling riddle before the end of April will be automatically entered to win a $250 Washington Pavilion gift card.

To learn more — or if your organization offers donation or recycling services and would like to be listed in the app’s directory — visit thebinfluencers.org.