As a Sherwood renter, you may be contemplating ways to help you 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 a certain thing is made of plastic, glass, metal, or cardboard does not imply that it is recyclable. And placing non-recyclable items into a recycling bin is a huge waste of your time as well as that of the processing center. Here’s some advice that may help you recycle the right way.
Plastics
To distinguish 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.
Furthermore, plastic shopping bags, shrink wrap, and other sets of plastic wrap should not be placed in your recycling center. The reason behind this is that these items clog up the machines, and they would eventually 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 can be more complicated than a lot of people think, mainly because processing centers don’t allow certain types of glass. In specific areas, the centers don’t allow any glass at all. While others will only take in a certain kind of glass. Make certain to check the rules at your local processing center prior to placing glass items in the trash.
However, there are certain kinds of glass that are just not recyclable at all. A few examples would be 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 means.
Metal
The same as glass, not all processing centers accept metal for recycling. Generally speaking, if you own metal items that you wish to recycle, you’ll need to look for a place specializing in metal recycling. Many regular processing centers will not allow metals like car parts, propane cylinders, aerosol cans, clothes hangers, and so on.
Likewise, old televisions and electronics may not be easily sent to your local recycling center. The electronic components of these things 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. Some companies will take in certain old electronics, including cell phones and tablets, that are broken or not wanted anymore.
Cardboard, Paper, and Wood
A lot of cardboard, paper, and wood can be safely recycled, while others are to be placed in the trash bin instead. Most processing centers will allow newspapers, notebook paper, and magazines. It’s the same for flattened packing boxes, cereal boxes, and food delivery boxes. Untreated wood items are also generally all right, 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 (a few stains of oil is fine), 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 correctly, you are helping your community as a renter. But if your neighborhood will not support your desire for more sustainability, Real Property Management Hometown can help you out! You can check out our listings online or call 501-701-4702 or 501-303-6870.
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