Barnegat Students Transform Recycling Bins Into Works Of Art

BARNEGAT, NJ — Something as simple as a recycling bin can be transformed into a piece of art, and that's what Barnegat High School students are doing. The art department is partnering with the Ocean County Department of Solid Waste Management (DSWM) to create murals on two recycling "Igloo" receptacles, which will be placed at two Barnegat marinas, the district announced.

The district said that the students have been enthusiastic about the process, dedicating time to bring their creative visions to life, which feature imagery of sea life, the well-known Barnegat Light House, and other visuals.

These receptacles are typically green, standing six-feet-tall and weigh 100-pounds, marked "Ocean County Recycles" for cans and bottles.

On Oct. 25, members of the Ocean County Department of Solid Waste Management will visit BHS to present art students with certificates of recognition in participation with the Ocean County’s Art and Sustainability Program - along with a special breakfast.

The receptacles are currently located in the "C" wing parking lot until they are picked up by the DSWM. More than 100 recycling Igloos are placed by the County at various Ocean County locations, especially near marinas and beach entrances during tourist season.

Since 2022, Ocean County DSWM has collaborated with seven organizations to complete ten Igloos, with more in progress.

Since being introduced in 1989, more than 100 Igloos have been strategically placed in parks, beaches, and marinas across Ocean County and continue to be maintained by the department. Just last year, they helped divert 25 tons of material from polluting the environment.