As a Taunton renter, you may be considering what you can do to live more sustainably. For most, sustainable living begins with recycling plastic, cardboard, or other materials. But what many don’t realize is that not all of these things can be recycled. Just because an item is made of plastic, glass, metal, or cardboard doesn’t imply that it is recyclable. And putting non-recyclable items into a recycling bin is kind of a big waste of your time as well as for the processing center. Here are some suggestions that may help you recycle the right way.
Plastics
To understand which plastic materials are recyclable and which aren’t, experts suggest going by container shape. A common rule would be that plastic bottles, jugs, jars, and tubs can be recycled. Just really make certain to rinse out and dry each container before placing it in the recycling bin.
But mind you, the list of plastic items that cannot be recycled is pretty long, so it may come as a surprise to you. To cite an example, plastic utensils and straws are not recyclable, while plastic food containers and water bottles usually are. Some other items that cannot be recycled include Styrofoam, plastic shower curtains, syringes, and medical waste.
Also, plastic shopping bags, shrink wrap, and other kinds of the plastic wrap should not go to your recycling center. The reason would be that these materials clog up the machines, and they usually end up in the landfill. So instead, these items are mostly recycled separately at drop-off locations in grocery stores. Finally, do not place recycling in bags – the bag may cause issues at the processing center.
Glass
Recycling glass is a bit more complicated than most think. This is mainly due to the fact that processing centers don’t take in certain types of glass. In certain areas, the centers don’t allow any glass at all. While there are certain places that will only accept a specific kind of glass. Make sure to check the rules at your local processing center prior to placing glass items in the bin.
However, there are certain kinds of glass that are just not recyclable at all. These include windows and mirrors, eyeglasses, vases, oven-safe ceramic cookware or dishes, and fluorescent light tubes. Due to the fact that these items have been treated with coatings or contain hazardous chemicals, they can in no way be safely recycled and should be disposed of through other methods.
Metal
The same as glass, not all processing centers let in metal for recycling. Generally speaking, if you do have metal items and you are keen to recycle them, you’ll need to look for a place specializing in metal recycling. The majority of regular processing centers will not take in metals like car parts, propane cylinders, aerosol cans, clothes hangers, and so on.
Likewise, old televisions and electronics cannot be easily sent to your local recycling center. The electronic components of these items can be more complex than most recycling centers can handle. Instead, try to look for certain kinds of local electronics shops that will allow your old electronics. Certain companies will allow old electronics, including cell phones and tablets, that are broken or no longer wanted.
Cardboard, Paper, and Wood
Many types of cardboard, paper, and wood can be safely recycled, while others are to be placed in the trash bin instead. Most processing centers permit newspapers, notebook paper, and magazines. It’s the same for flattened packing boxes, cereal boxes, and food delivery boxes. Untreated wood items are also commonly accepted, but it depends on what items your local recycling center is willing to take.
Still, it’s essential to keep in mind that certain cardboard, paper, and wood types are not recyclable. This includes grease-soaked pizza boxes (some oil is acceptable), waxed paper cartons, and treated wood, including painted or stained furniture. Books and some types of paper are also not recyclable, so it’s essential to separate your paper items carefully before placing them in the trash bin.
By recycling the correct way, you can do a lot to help your community as a renter. But if your neighborhood will not support your desire for more sustainability, Real Property Management Success can help you out! You can check out our listings online or call at 908-239-7579.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
