Dr Le Van Khoa, director of the HCM City Recycling Fund, said many children are preparing for the special day by saving their toys’ empty batteries, which are considered hazardous waste.

The main activities for the Waste Recycling Day will be held at Le Van Tam Park in the city’s District 1.

Prior to the big event, from April 13-17, the public will be welcome to deposit waste materials at gathering sites in the 11 districts.

The sites will take only hazardous waste items, including batteries, liquid batteries, bulbs and chemical bottles.

A total of 104 gathering sites will be manned by representatives from the HCM City Centre for Social Activities for Youth, youth unions and women’s unions.

The recycling day aims to publicise the three Rs in waste management: reduce-reuse-recycle.

Five activities before the Waste Recycling Day include a competition on a wide variety of objects made from waste materials, a video contest on the topic of the 3Rs, a fashion contest made from waste materials, a public speaking contest on the environment, and a slogan contest to promote the use of environmentally friendly bags.

During the recycling day, visitors will be able to exchange waste for new items during three activities.

In the Give Old for New event, people can exchange empty milk boxes or used paper for new ones.

During the Dump Waste for Gifts activity, pens, notebooks, key rings and kitchen utensils will be given in exchange for batteries, liquid batteries, bulbs and bottles filled with chemicals.

During the recycling day, an exhibition featuring contestants’ models made from waste, games on the 3Rs, art performances and fairs on recycled products will be held.

Thirty companies have agreed to join the special day as sponsors.

In addition to the chair, the city’s Department of Natural Resources and Environment, the event will involve many city government agencies.