How To Sort Recyclables?

Question

I want to go green but i dont know how to sort the trash. i understand there are blue grabage bins and green garbage bins,etc. But what color bins does plastic,paper,etc. go in?

Answer 1

In most cities, like mine, the recycling bin is blue. Put all your recyclables in there, unless there's something different in your city. In my city, we have a gray trash can and a blue recycling bin, so all my recyclables, plastic,paper,cardboard,etc. go in there.

Good for you wanting to go green!! :]

Answer 2

Usually, the recycling bins are blue.

Pay close attention, however, to what can and cannot be recycled.  It will usually say this on the can, but you can do more research on your recycler's website.

It is very important to keep non-recyclables out of the recycling bin.  Though you may have the good conscience to want to put, for example, your plastic yogurt container in with the recyclables, chances are that it doesn't belong there.  By throwing it in with the rest, you make more work for the recycling company which makes it harder for them to stay efficient and stay in business.

Recyclers often specify only certain materials that can be recycled.  #1 and #2 plastics can commonly be recycled, but not any other number of plastics (for the number, check the bottom side, inside the recycling symbol).  Furthermore, even among the #1s and #2s, only certain types of containers (i.e. soft drink containers) can be accepted, due to their thickness and composition and the method by which plastics are recycled.

Glass is also tricky.  Plate glass, pyrex, light bulbs, and some other types of glass are usually not accepted because of certain chemicals which are used to make them (for example, plate glass has lead in it).  Most glass bottles are recyclable.

Most metals can be recyclable, as long as they are clean and do not contain compressed gases, like in aerosol cans or propane tanks.  Remove the paper if possible and include them in the mix.  Metals are the most profitable materials for recycling companies and will help your recycling company to continue their good work for years to come.

For all other trash, you will probably want to use the green bin.