Monroe County launches program to answer recycling questions through Alexa app

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Have you ever had a question about whether an item is recyclable? Monroe County on Tuesday announced a new program aimed at making recycling a little easier through the Alexa app.

Once you say “Hey Alexa, open Monroe County Recycling”, Alexa will be able to answer your questions on how to recycle common items. You can watch a demonstration on the county’s website.

You can download the Alexa app on Apple or Google Play devices or any Amazon Smart Device. Then, you can, you can go to the Alexa Skill Store and enable the Monroe County Recycling Skill.

County Executive Adam Bello said that Monroe County is the first in New York to launch a program through the Alexa Skill Store. The program was created in partnership with Pittsford-based company iCitizen.

“Beginning today, you will also be able to ask Alexa about how to properly recycle in Monroe County,” Bello said. “Our free Monroe County recycling skill app is now available for all Amazon smart devices in the Alexa app on your phone.”

The app announcement falls on America Recycles Day, the only nationally-recognized day dedicated to promoting and celebrating recycling in the U.S.