New Yorkers are concerned about the environment and do what they can to help. Recycling in Long Island NY has gotten easier with what is called single-stream recycling, which is having all recyclable items in one bin. For most people, this is an added convenience that has increased the ease of recycling. However, others now include things that may not be recycled in the bin, which causes contamination and could cause the entire container to be thrown out instead of recycled. Keep reading for tips about which items may be recycled as well as which items to discard in the trash.
Paper
Paper recycling includes a myriad of everyday items such as paper, magazines, phone books, food boxes, junk mail, and cardboard boxes. Do not recycle tissue, carbon, and waxed papers. For cardboard and food boxes, break the boxes down flat to save space. Discard any plastic wrapping or packing peanuts. Additionally, do not recycle if there are food particles stuck on the cardboard. Some people attempt to recycle paper coffee cups, but the wax lining is not recyclable. Instead of using these cups, use a reusable cup instead.
Aluminum and Glass
Cans and bottles are a huge source of recycling. Rinse them out to keep the bin, and everything in it, from becoming sticky. Cans can be crushed to save space or placed in the bin whole. Labels on glass do not need to be removed ahead of time. Household glass items should not be recycled through a home recycling program. Light bulbs can be recycled at specific hardware or home improvement stores.
Plastics
Plastic items are labeled with a number. Generally, recycling centers will accept plastics #1 through #7 only. Be sure to rinse items with water and crush to save space. Caps for plastic containers are recyclable as well. Leave plastic bags out of single-stream bins. Use reusable bags or return plastic bags to a big box store where they have specially designed bins for used plastic bags.
Final Thoughts
Recycling is best for the environment if it is done correctly. Not all recycling programs accept the same materials, so be sure to contact local recycling companies to learn which items may be included in your recycling bin. For more tips and suggestions about Recycling in Long Island NY or for information about recycling services, contact V. Garofalo Carting Inc.
