Recycling As posted on the LCSWMA website.

The Recycling Myth

A common misconception people have about recycling is they think it means placing items in their recycling bin—often, as much as possible. However, recycling is actually a system of collecting and processing used materials that still have value, in order to transform them into new products. This means not everything is recyclable. And just because a product has a recycling symbol on the bottom does not mean it’s recyclable. So, why is it important to debunk the recycling myth? Though most of us are well-intentioned, when we put materials in the bin that don’t belong, we’re actually contaminating the recycling stream, which negatively impacts our environment and economy. We need your help to recycle right!

What Can Be Recycled?

Only the following materials can be recycled. Think of them as the “Big 4”. Everything else should be placed in your trash. If you aren’t sure, remember this phrase: “When in doubt, throw it out!” LCSWMA will transform discarded waste into renewable energy.

CORRUGATED CARDBOARD:
This includes any size material consisting of a fluted corrugated sheet, like shipping boxes, packing boxes, CLEAN pizza boxes (no grease or food remnants), etc. Flatten all boxes and remove packaging including Styrofoam, peanuts, bubble wrap and plastic liners. Do NOT put paperboard (cereal boxes, shoe boxes), newsprint or junk mail in the bin.

PLASTIC BOTTLES AND JUGS:
This includes plastic bottles, jars, jugs and anything else with a neck. Throw away the lids and rinse out any residue. All other plastic material is considered trash. Ignore the numbers, as they don’t indicate if something is recyclable. Do NOT put plastic bags, toys, buckets, packaging, Styrofoam, hosing, furniture, or other plastic items in the bin.