How to Recycle
Many people aren't sure how and where to recycle items. Take a look at the chart below. Do you recycle these items properly?
| Curbside Recycling | Waste/Landfill | Specialized Recycling |
|---|---|---|
| Collapsed cardboard boxes | Greasy pizza box | Glass bottles |
| Mixed paper, magazines, junk mail, newspapers | Styrofoam | Plastic grocery bags |
| Metal food and beverage cans | Takeout containers, to-go coffee cups | Electronics (computers, TVs) and batteries |
What is curbside recycling?
Curbside recycling refers to the practice of picking up discarded items curbside by a waste collection service, which then gets sorted at a facility. Not all curbside recycling services can take all recycleable items. The best way to ensure you're only recycling curbside-accepted items is to check with your local city, county, or town's waste services.
What is specialized recycling?
Items that are recycleable may not be accepted via curbside, but they your local waste and transfer station may accept them. In Fairfax County, for example, glass is not accepted curbside, however local residents may drop off glass at the I-66 Transfer Station or I-95 Landfill Complex. There are also several locations of purple glass drop-off containers throughout Fairfax County.
What do the different numbers on the symbol mean?
You're probably familiar with the recycling symbol, which typically consists of three arrows in a continuous triangle like this one.
Not all items that have the recycling symbol on them are recyclable. On items where the recycling symbol is present, there may also be a number between 1 and 7 within the symbol. These numbers indicate what type of plastic is being used, so recycling services can determine if they're able to accept it or not. Numbers 1 and 2 are generally accepted through most curbside recycling programs. Numbers 3 through 7 contain plastics that are more difficult to recycle, however some services may still be able to collect them through specialized recycling program. It's best to check with your local recycling service to find out what is and isn't accepted.
Image Source: Recycle.com
Image Description
The chart shows the names for each code, which is more formally known as the Resin Identification Code (RIC). Plastics in code 1 are typically found in up soda and water bottles, jars, and caps. Plastics in code 2 are typically found in milk jugs and detergent bottles. Plastics in code 3 are typically found in cleaning products. Plastics in code 4 are typically found in squeeze bottles. Plastics in code 5 are typically found in yogurt cups and condiment bottles. Plastics in code 6 are typically found in hard packaging, foam items, and plastic cutlery. All other plastics are categorized in code 7.
What if I'm not sure if an item is recyclable?
If you aren't sure if an item is recyclable, it's best to check with your local recycling facility on what is and isn't accepted. BeRecycled is a website that also helps you figure out if something is recycleable in your area.