HOUSTON – Recycling is an important step towards conserving energy and reducing pollution. Here are some do’s and don’ts of recycling that can help you make a positive impact:
1. Do recycle metal cans, cartons, glass, paper, cardboard, and plastic. Make sure to rinse them before tossing them into the recycling bin.
2. Don’t bag your recyclables. Placing them loose in the bin helps ensure proper sorting at recycling facilities.
3. Pizza boxes with grease stains are considered contaminated. Tear off the clean lid and recycle it, while the greasy bottom should go in the regular trash.
4. You don’t need to remove the plastic ring and cap from plastic bottles. Leaving them on actually helps with the recycling process.
5. Avoid placing your recycling bin within 3 feet of a lamppost, mailbox, or car. Face the metal bar toward the street and ensure the lid is closed.
6. Most recyclables are packaging items from products found in the kitchen, bath and laundry of your home.
7. All recycling items must be empty and clean before placing in the recycling bin. Place items loose into the cart - do not bag recycling.
Also, if you’re located in the city of Houston, remember that residents who receive SWMD Collection Services are provided with a large, 96-gallon green recycling bin. Recycling is collected every other week on the same day as your garbage is collected.