Everybody talks about recycling.
You’ve heard a thousand times how it is important to recycle, and you’ve probably heard of theories that many of the thrown items actually never get recycled.
There are a lot of people who think that almost nothing gets recycled and that the whole narrative is built upon a false idea that makes big corporations feel good about themselves…
Now, I’m not going to dive into politics and morality of it all, but what I certainly know is that it starts with you, at your home, at your workplace.
Recycling is a great way to reduce waste and conserve resources, but not all items belong in the recycling bin.
While it’s easy to assume that everything made of plastic, paper, or metal can be recycled, certain items simply aren’t suitable for recycling.
These materials can contaminate entire batches of recyclables, making the recycling process less efficient.
So, let’s explore some of the most common non-recyclable items and how to dispose of them responsibly.
1. Plastic Bags
Plastic bags, while convenient, are often a big issue for recycling facilities.
They can easily get tangled in machinery, causing delays and damage.
The best solution is to collect your plastic bags and drop them off at designated collection points, often found at grocery stores.
Some stores have drop-off bins specifically for plastic bags and film packaging.
Even better, just don’t throw them away.
There’s so many bags out there for a reason, and that is – we need them.
So, organize your stuff at home, use them for storing clothes, things you don’t use everyday, and I’m sure each one will find it’s place.
2. Takeout Containers
Plastic or styrofoam takeout containers usually contain food residue, which makes them difficult to recycle.
Rinsing them thoroughly can sometimes make them recyclable, but if they’re too greasy, it’s better to discard them in the trash or consider reusing them for storage.
Alternatively, try to bring your own reusable containers when ordering food to reduce waste.
I know, it’s hard, so think about not ordering food at all. Cook at home, and take your food with you.
3. Pizza Boxes
While pizza boxes are typically made of cardboard, they often have grease stains that contaminate the recycling process.
If the box is clean, it can go into the recycling bin.
However, if it’s covered in oil, and most are after you had you cheat day filled with pepperoni slices, it’s better to compost it or dispose of it in the trash.
Some communities allow pizza boxes in composting programs, so you might wanna check that with your local waste facility.
4. Styrofoam
Styrofoam, although a great invention, is notoriously difficult to recycle and doesn’t biodegrade.
If you have Styrofoam products, such as coffee cups or packaging, check with your local recycling center to see if they have a designated collection point.
In most cases, Styrofoam should be placed in the trash.
However, you could probably use it for something else.
If you have pets, styrofoam serves as a great insulator.
Have a couple of holes in your drywall?
Well, use it to reinforce the insulation.
5. Batteries
Batteries should never, ever, be disposed of in your regular recycling bin.
Lately, as we’re transitioning to battery-powered society, we’re hearing more and more stories how spontaneous fire started at many dumpsites…
Apart from that, batteries contain toxic chemicals and heavy metals that can harm the environment if not handled correctly.
Many areas have designated battery recycling centers, or you can often return used batteries to electronics retailers that offer recycling services.
6. Aerosol Cans
Aerosol cans may be made of metal, but the chemicals inside make them bad for the environment.
They should be treated as hazardous waste, and that’s why most companies with strict environmental safety and health policies have special containers for collection of aerosols.
Look for special collection events for hazardous materials in your community or take them to a facility that handles hazardous waste.
And if you’re creative enough, I’m sure you’ll find a cool way to use the empty ones somehow!
7. Electronics
Old electronics, such as TVs, computers, and phones, should not go into the regular recycling bin due to the risk of hazardous materials.
Instead, find an electronics recycling program in your area.
Many retailers also offer take-back programs for old devices.
Some people even extract gold from the electronics boards, so you might earn a couple of bucks on the side!
8. Medical Waste
Items like syringes, bandages, and any medical equipment should never go into the recycling bin.
These are considered biohazards.
You should check with your local healthcare provider or pharmacy for a safe disposal program, because in most cases, there is one.
9. Plastic Lids and Bottle Caps
Plastic lids, especially those from bottles, are often made from a different type of plastic than the bottles themselves and may not be recyclable.
In Europe, this was a huge issue, so they’ve come up with an interesting solution.
Namely, bottle camps overseas cannot be detached from the container itself.
Pretty cool, right?
For the rest of us, the only thing we can do right now is to consider removing lids from bottles before placing them in the recycling bin.
If not that, you can probably use them for a different purpose. There’s some pretty nice examples of homemade jewelry made out of bottle caps, so you might wanna check that!
10. Shredded Paper
While paper itself is recyclable, shredded paper is too small to be properly processed and can cause issues at recycling facilities.
Basically, it falls through the cracks.
Instead of recycling it, use shredded paper for composting or as packing material.
11. Wax-Coated Paper
Items such as wax-coated paper cups or wrapping paper are not recyclable due to the coating.
The wax prevents the paper from breaking down properly during the recycling process.
Reuse the paper for crafts or place it in the trash.
12. Tires
Tires cannot be recycled curbside, but they can be taken to specialized tire recycling centers.
Many auto shops offer take-back services when you buy new tires, so be sure to ask about disposal options.
Also, I’ve seen numerous examples of how old tires can be used as a planter for your garden.
13. Clothing and Textiles
Clothing is not accepted in most curbside recycling programs.
If your clothes are in good condition, donate them to charity.
For textiles that can’t be reused, look for textile recycling centers in your area where old fabric items are repurposed into new materials.
Or, try to be creative!
You never know, maybe there’s new Gucci lying inside of you :)
14. Ceramics and Pottery
Ceramics, including coffee mugs and dishes, are too hard to break down and recycle effectively.
Instead, consider repurposing them for craft projects or use them as planters for your garden.
15. Plastic Utensils
Disposable plastic forks, knives, and spoons are often made from low-grade plastics that can’t be recycled.
Consider replacing disposable cutlery with reusable options. If you must dispose of them, put them in the trash.
16. Plastic Food Wrap
Plastic wrap, such as the cling film used for food packaging, cannot be recycled.
It should be disposed of in the trash, or you can look for alternatives like reusable silicone wraps or beeswax wraps.
17. Mirrors
Mirrors are made of glass, but they are coated with materials that make them impossible to recycle.
If you have a broken mirror, it should be carefully wrapped and disposed of in your regular trash.
18. Shampoo Bottles (Non-recyclable Plastics)
Some shampoo bottles are made from plastics that aren’t recyclable, especially those with mixed materials like plastic and aluminum.
Check the recycling code on the bottle to determine if it’s recyclable.
If not, reuse the bottle for storage or dispose of it in the trash.
19. Bubble Wrap
Bubble wrap, though made of plastic, is often too soft to be processed at most recycling facilities.
Instead of tossing it into your recycling bin, reuse it as packaging material or take it to a store that accepts plastic film recycling.
20. Food Scraps
Food waste, such as leftover food or organic waste, should not go into the recycling bin.
Many cities offer curbside composting services for food scraps, or you can start composting at home.
This is a sustainable way to dispose of organic waste while reducing your environmental impact.
So, How to Improve Your Recycling Efforts?
Well, while it’s important to recycle correctly, it’s equally crucial to reduce waste in the first place.
Before throwing items away, consider if they can be reused, repurposed, or donated.
Additionally, many communities offer specialized recycling programs for items like electronics, batteries, and hazardous waste, so always check your local guidelines.
The key takeaway is to avoid “wishcycling”, to put it simple, putting items in your recycling bin just because you hope they can be recycled.
By ensuring that only appropriate materials are placed in your recycling bin, you’ll help keep the recycling process clean and effective, contributing to a healthier planet.