Recycling RIGHT is more important than recycling MORE. Many people are still operating under the misconception that recycling every possible scrap of paper, metal, plastic, and glass is the most environmentally sound practice. Clean, uncontaminated recyclable material improves marketability.

Here's a guide for what NOT to put in the recycling bin:

• Anything with food waste in it - You don't have to wash containers, but rinse to remove food scraps and residue.

• Plastic bags and film - These items get stuck in the processing machinery, resulting in expensive repairs and downtime.
Recycle CLEAN plastic bags and plastic film packaging at the grocery store.

• Empty snack bags

• Greasy pizza boxes

• Used paper plates, napkins, paper towels, tissues, or diapers

• Paper cups (e.g. coffee cups, fast food drink cups) -
The thin plastic lining that helps prevent cups from leaking makes it difficult to process.

• Plastic straws, plastic utensils, or takeaway cup lids

• Shredded paper

• Styrofoam

• Scrap metal, hangers, aluminum siding, or metal cookware

• Mirrors, ovenware, flower pots, and window glass

• Oil cans or bottles, aerosol, or paint cans

• Drinking glasses, ceramic dishware

If you want to do something positive for the planet by recycling, then do it right. When in doubt, throw it out!