What Are Some Items At Home That Can Be Recycled?
Believe it or not, Americans produce about 230 million tons of trash per year. That breaks down to over four and a half pounds per person per day. Rather than just sending all of the waste to a landfill, states and local communities have instituted recycling programs so that most of that trash can be recycled and repurposed in another way. Recycling helps us use less energy and valuable resources to make new products. Here is a look at some of the common products you have at home that can be easily recycled.
Paper and Cardboard
Group paper and cardboard products together for recycling purposes. Magazines, paper grocery bags, junk mail, newspapers and phone books are all examples of items that should be put together in your home for recycling. Items such as used paper towels, tissues, toilet paper and waxed paper products (think milk and juice cartons) should be disposed of in the regular trash.
Plastic
There are many types of plastic found in your home. Milk containers, plant containers and cleaning bottles are all examples of some types of plastic you might find in your home. Because these plastics are made of various ingredients, some are more recyclable than others. To aid you with how to separate plastics, the government has mandated that plastic bottles have a number on them. If you see a 1 or 2 on the bottom of the plastic, it is definitely recyclable. If you see a 3, 5 or 6 it is probably not and should be placed with the general trash. Items containing a 4 or 7 may be recyclable. Check with your local sanitation department for more information.
Glass Bottles
Glass bottles are definitely recyclable. Whether they are clear, green, brown or blue, they can all be placed together. Many people turn their glass bottles in for cash because some states will refund 5 or 10 cents for cash. Additionally, glass bottles should have lids, caps and corks removed when separated.
Key Takeaways:
- Recycle almost all paper except used tissues, paper towels and toilet paper.
- Plastic garnering a 1, 2 should be recycled. Check to see if plastic labeled a 4 or 7 can be recycled.
- All glass bottles can be recycled; without tops or lids.
Need Help?
If recycling is something you are interested in but are having trouble getting started, contact us today!
[Free eBook] Things You Should Be Doing to Green Your Business
In Johns’ new ebook, we provide you with the latest and most effective ways to make your business more environmentally friendly. These practices are free of cost and will actually save you money!