Recycling rules vary across cities, and this inconsistency can make recycling feel challenging. It’s common for families and individuals who want to help the environment to feel uncertain about the “do’s” and “don’ts” of recycling. But with some basic know-how and a commitment to keeping it simple, we can make a big difference.
Recycling has so many guidelines, and the rules often change depending on location, and it’s important to know what your local recycler accepts and doesn’t. Many recycle bins have instructions listed right on top.
Here are Scouting America’s recycling tips to help you recycle smarter and more confidently:
1. Skip the Plastic Bags – Always
Plastic bags are a major contaminant in recycling facilities. They act as “tanglers,” getting caught in sorting machinery and forcing shutdowns. Some places, recyclers even discard entire bags of recyclables if they arrive in plastic bags.
Tip: Avoid tossing any plastic bags, bubble wrap, or clingy films into curbside bins. Instead, bring them to dedicated drop-off bins at your local store. Better yet, use reusable shopping bags and containers.
2. Keep Small Items Out
Anything smaller than a credit card (like bottle caps, coffee pods, and straws) is likely to get lost in the sorting process or jam equipment. A good rule of thumb: if it’s smaller than a business card, keep it out of the bin.
Tip: For plastic bottles, replace the cap after emptying, making it easier for recycling facilities to process. For metal caps, see if local scrap facilities accept them.
3. Clean, Empty, and Dry
Food waste contaminates recyclables, sending them straight to the landfill. To prevent this, make sure your recyclables are clean, empty, and dry. If you wouldn’t reuse it yourself, it’s probably not clean enough.
Tip: If you’re recycling pizza boxes, remove the greasy parts. Only the clean sections belong in the bin.
4. Combined Materials are a No-Go
Recycling requires the separation of materials. Items like paper-bubble mailers or plastic-lined coffee cups can’t be effectively separated and should be disposed of as trash.
Tip: Try to buy items with minimal packaging, especially those with one material type. Supporting local businesses can also reduce the packaging waste associated with online shopping.
5. Learn Your Plastics
Not all plastics are recyclable curbside. Generally, plastics labeled #1 or #2 are widely accepted, but beyond that, things can get tricky. As a rule, if the plastic feels flimsy or easily tears (like chip bags), it’s likely not recyclable.
Tip: Familiarize yourself with your city’s guidelines for plastics. Aim to reduce overall plastic use by choosing glass or reusable options when possible.
6. Avoid “Wishcycling”
“Wishcycling” is the act of tossing questionable items in the bin, hoping they’ll be recycled. Unfortunately, non-recyclable items in a load can send the entire batch to a landfill.
Tip: Stick to known recyclables. When in doubt, keep it out of the bin. Check your local recycling website for specifics.
7. Keep Learning
Every city has unique recycling regulations, and items like batteries, electronics, and paint have specific recycling requirements.
Tip: Bookmark your local recycling center’s website. The more you know, the more you can contribute to a sustainable future.
Demand a Cleaner Future
Reducing, reusing, and recycling are just parts of the solution. As a Scout and as part of the Scouting family, you’re empowered to use your voice. Push for policies that reduce single-use plastics and encourage businesses to adopt sustainable practices.
Scouts, let’s be the change. By following these practices, we set an example for others and help pave the way to a more sustainable world.
