Learn about different types of waste and how to properly dispose of them to maximize recycling and minimize environmental impact.
Click on a category to learn more about proper disposal and helpful tips.
Waste Tips:
Clean containers before recycling to remove food residue.
Remove caps and lids as they may be made of different plastic types.
Look for recycling numbers 1-7 on the bottom of containers.
Avoid putting plastic bags in curbside recycling - take them to store drop-off locations.
Waste disposal guidelines:
Most plastic containers can be recycled curbside. Check your local recycling guidelines for specific accepted types. Plastic bags should be taken to grocery store collection points.
Examples:
Water bottles
Food containers
Shampoo bottles
Yogurt cups
Waste Tips:
Compost fruit and vegetable scraps in your backyard or community garden.
Include coffee grounds, tea bags, and eggshells.
Avoid composting meat, dairy, and oily foods at home.
Turn compost regularly to speed decomposition.
Waste disposal guidelines:
Compost organic waste at home or use municipal organic waste collection programs. Some areas offer food waste pickup or drop-off locations.
Examples:
Food scraps
Yard trimmings
Coffee grounds
Paper towels
Waste Tips:
Never throw electronics in regular trash due to toxic materials.
Wipe all personal data before disposing of devices.
Check if manufacturers offer take-back programs.
Consider donating working electronics to extend their life.
Waste disposal guidelines:
Take to certified e-waste recycling centers, manufacturer take-back programs, or special collection events. Many retailers also accept old electronics.
Examples:
Computers
Smartphones
Batteries
TV monitors
Waste Tips:
Remove tape, staples, and plastic windows from envelopes.
Flatten cardboard boxes to save space.
Keep paper dry - wet paper can contaminate other recyclables.
Shred sensitive documents but check if your recycler accepts shredded paper.
Waste disposal guidelines:
Most paper and cardboard can be recycled curbside. Keep materials clean and dry. Some glossy papers and wax-coated boxes may not be accepted.
Examples:
Newspapers
Magazines
Cardboard boxes
Office paper
Waste Tips:
Rinse containers but labels can stay on.
Separate by color if your program requires it.
Remove metal caps and lids.
Never include window glass, mirrors, or light bulbs with container glass.
Waste disposal guidelines:
Glass containers can typically be recycled curbside or at drop-off centers. Some areas have separate collection for different glass colors.