Why is the WWRA so “Picky?”

We recently made a post busting recycling myths, but we left one unaddressed: “Why is the WWRA so “picky”?”
The WWRA has specific requirements for what is an isn’t recyclable. The most common recycling mistakes include wishcycling, bagging recyclables, and recycling thin plastics. Specific recycling rules are essential to keep our recycling system running.
First, recycling rules protect our workers. Hazardous waste, including needles, paint, household cleaners, and electronics pose an obvious risk to our workers, but they aren’t the only threat when we recycle incorrectly. Bagged recyclables can hide sharp objects from our workers, and tanglers can get tangled in our machinery. Make sure you recycle right to protect our workers who hand sort recycling.
Second, recycling rules keep our recycling uncontaminated. After the WWRA sorts and bales our recyclables, they are sold to recycling facilities who make them into new products. This process can only occur if our recyclables are high quality and uncontaminated. Food and product waste reduces the quality and value of our recyclables.
Third, recycling rules reduce facility costs. When items are recycled incorrectly, they have to be disposed of by the WWRA. This costs our nonprofit time and money. In addition to disposal costs, contaminated recycling takes more time to sort and can cause costly damage to our equipment. Tanglers, for example, can become tangled in our machinery and cause us to shut down and make repairs.