Improve your Recycle Habits Philly
August 7, 2008
According to the EPA, 75% of American’s trash can be recycled – and only 25% actually is.
In Philadelphia, you’re able to recycle most household materials curbside, without having to sort into separate containers. Here’s the breakdown:
Metal: Tin and aluminum cans, empty aerosol cans, empty paint cans
Glass: Jars and bottles
Mixed Paper: Newspaper, magazines, mail (junk and personal), phone books, food boxes (remove plastic liner), computer paper, flyers, wrapping paper (no foil or plastic wrap), soda and beer cartons (no food-soiled paper, please!)
Plastic Containers: Recycle #1 and #2 plastics ONLY (mostly beverage and detergent containers). Look for one of these numbers on the bottom of the container to see if it’s acceptable.
Cardboard: Empty and flattened
When sorting your trash and recycle bins, make sure to include all possible recyclables. Every time you’re about to throw something away, think of whether it can be recycled. (For example, many people are unaware you can recycle empty bathroom staples such as shampoo, soap dispensers, body wash, etc.) Also, if you use disposable materials at work (water bottles, cardboard boxes, etc.) make the extra effort to take anything home if your employer lacks recycle bins.
If you live in the city of brotherly love and need a recycle bin, you can check this site to find where to pick one up.
In some communities (such as Glen Mills, PA, etc.), you can actually earn money back for recycling. RecycleBank picks up your recycled materials together in one bin, so you don’t have to bother sorting. This program saved 8800 tons of materials from landfills alone last year in Wilmington. Check their website to sign up for the program.
Happy Recycling!
Posted by Julie
Related posts:
- Quick Tip – Shop smart
- BYOB (Bring Your Own Bag)
- Save the date Philly!
- 7 Simple Ways to Green Your Home
- A Nod to Philly Bikers
Filed under: Philly Represent!, Recycle
2 Comments Leave a Comment
1.
Tom | August 8, 2008 at 10:28 am
Is it true that you have to take the caps or lids off of water and other bottles in order for them to be recycled?
2.
Julie | August 8, 2008 at 10:40 am
Great question Tom! If the cap or lid is clear plastic, you can throw that in the recycle bin according the Philly rules. (If the lid isn’t clear, that can be thrown in the trash.) Also, Philly wants you to rinse out the plastics/aluminum/etc. before you put them in the recycle bin. I suggest putting a little soap & water and letting it sit versus wasting excess water.
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