What is Considered Recyclable?

Recycling is a vital part of preserving our environment and reducing waste. However, determining what is recyclable can be confusing, as most items seem recyclable. As a reputable dumpster rental service, we can help you recycle items that are accepted by local facilities. Starr Dumpsters understands what truly qualifies as recyclable, ensuring the right materials are processed while preventing contamination by non-recyclable waste. Here’s a detailed guide on the most common categories of recyclable materials to help you choose what goes into your recycling bin.

Paper and Cardboard

Paper and cardboard are the most accepted recyclable materials. This includes items like newspapers, magazines, office paper, cardboard boxes, and paperboard. To recycle paper effectively, ensure it’s clean and free from food waste to avoid contamination. Flatten cardboard boxes to save space in the recycling bin, and any packing materials, like Styrofoam or plastic, should be removed. Paper towels, tissues, and wax-coated paper are non-recyclable, so rent a dumpster to discard them separately.

Plastics

Plastic is also considered recyclable, but not all types are equal. Plastics are often marked with a number from 1 to 7, showing their type. Most recycling programs accept plastics labeled 1 (PETE) and 2 (HDPE), which include water bottles, milk jugs, and detergent containers. However, plastics labeled 3 (PVC), 4 (LDPE), 6 (PS), and 7 (Other) are often not accepted because of challenges in processing. In addition, plastic bags, which are often recyclable at dedicated drop-off points, should not be included in regular curbside bins, as they can jam machinery.

Glass

Glass is recyclable, with most facilities accepting bottles and jars used for food and beverages. However, items like mirrors, ceramics, and light bulbs often aren’t recyclable in standard curbside programs, as they contain different components or coatings. Before recycling, rent a dumpster unit to avoid breaking glass, and subsequent hazards for handling defective recycling materials.

Metals

Metals, such as aluminum and steel, are also recyclable. Common recyclable metals include soda cans, food cans, and aluminum foil. Recycling metal is incredibly efficient, as it can be melted down and reformed with little degradation. Clean the metal items before recycling, as food residue can disrupt the process. Items like paint cans, aerosol cans, and batteries require special handling and should be placed in separate dumpster rental units.

Electronics

Electronics or e-waste contain valuable metals and components but require specialized recycling processes. Items like cell phones, computers, and small appliances are recyclable, but they should never be placed in curbside bins because of the potential presence of hazardous materials. Many communities have designated e-waste collection sites, and some retailers also accept electronics for recycling. Proper disposal of electronics helps recover valuable resources and prevents harmful chemicals from polluting the environment.

Knowing what is recyclable is essential to making a positive impact on our environment. By understanding the materials that can be recycled, you can reduce waste and promote sustainability. Contact us at Starr Dumpsters to understand the various guidelines in your community, so that you can maximize the efficiency of recycling programs and reduce the amount of waste in landfills.