Curbside Recycling Tags
A curbside recycler recently asked us about the “oops tag” on their bin. These tags allow WWRA collection workers to let recyclers know their items are NOT recyclable. Let’s go over the contaminates these tags include:
– Overflow: This is a common issue with curbside recycling. Overflowing bins decrease efficiency of our curbside collection and cause litter from flyaway recycling. Do not leave recyclables beside your bin or hanging out of your bin. If you have excess recycling, please utilize a drop off site
– Bagged Recycling and Plastic Bags (thin plastics): Bagged recycling and thin plastics are not recyclable at the WWRA. These items pose a risk to our workers who hand sort recycling, and are also tanglers.
– Cords, hoses, chains, and other tanglers: Tanglers become tangled in our recycling machines, leading to costly repairs and wasted time. Remember: tanglers are NOT recyclable at the WWRA. Learn more about tanglers here
– Food or Liquids: Recyclables need to be clean and dry before recycling. Do not recycle trash, compost, or heavily soiled recyclables.
– Hazardous Waste and Needles: These items are dangerous to our workers who hand sort recycling. Items like lithium batteries, cleaning products, oils, paint, medicine, and needles need to be disposed of properly. Visit this link for more information
– Household items and Furniture: Bulky household items and cookware are not recyclable. Visit this link for a complete guide to appliance recycling
– Electronic waste: Phones, computers, batteries, cords, TVs, and other e-waste is unrecyclable. Visit this link to learn more about e-waste disposal