How to Recycle Right

Right Recycling, Marin Magazine

We all want to do our part when it comes to recycling, but sometimes we become wishful recyclers when we guess at what is and is not accepted. Turns out, it’s better to throw away a questionable item than contaminate the batch. And with all the rules and details to consider, it’s no wonder many people are confused. Even the greenest of us are sometimes left holding an empty milk carton wondering where it goes (hint: Mill Valley Refuse won’t accept these). Here are some top tips to help you sort out the often confusing world of recycling.


On Top: Leave the plastic caps on your bottles when recycling.

New Mantra: “When in doubt, throw it out.”

Bin There: Recycle flimsy plastic grocery bags (and other types of plastic bags) at the drop-off bins available at most grocery stores.

No Joe: Most to-go coffee cups are not recyclable, so they go into the trash.

Clean Act: Thoroughly rinse and dry all recyclable containers.

Bagged Down: Don’t bag up your recyclables in plastic because the trash bags can damage equipment and make the contents hard to sort. Instead, put everything in loosely.

Just Ask: Always check with your local recycling company for specific instructions, as each center follows different rules.

 

This article originally appeared in Marin Magazine’s print edition with the headline: “Right Recycling”.