There is no shortage of conversation around recycling and the common gripe is ubiquitous: “Why can’t they make it easier?” Here’s the deal: recycling is not easy, and nobody ever promised it would be. In this moment, it would serve everyone well to remember the conventional wisdom that few things in life that are worthwhile are easy. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Making a mess is a cinch; cleaning it up is not. There is no “they,” only us, and it is up to all of us to do our part to help clean up the mess we have made. As advances are made in recycling technology, it’s important to remember that it’s not perfect and modern recycling still has some limitations. So, pay attention and you just might help save the planet.
What you can recycle
PLASTICS:
All plastic containers except for plastic bags or plastic film. Please empty and rinse containers. Discard loose caps or securely fasten them to the plastic bottles.
PAPER:
Paper not contaminated by food, including newspaper, magazines, catalogs, junk mail, office paper, cardboard, paper bags, chipboard paper, file folders, envelopes with and without windows, paperback books, mixed paper, paper towel and toilet tissue rolls etc.
ASEPTIC FOOD AND BEVERAGE CARTONS: All juice boxes, milk and juice containers, and soup and broth containers. NO juice pouches or straws. Please empty and rinse containers. Discard loose caps or securely fasten them to the plastic bottles.
FOOD AND BEVERAGE CONTAINERS:
All aluminum and steel cans, empty aerosol cans, clean foil, aluminum pie plates and trays. Please empty and rinse. Aluminum tabs and steel caps are acceptable.
GLASS:
All glass bottles and jars. Empty and rinse all glass, secure small metal caps. Separate larger lids.
SCRAP METAL:
All scrap metal items that can fit in the cart are acceptable. Exceptions include heavy tools. Do NOT recycle tools like hammers, axes, screwdrivers etc.
What NOT to recycle
Electronics, Hoses, Pyrex Cookware, Styrofoam, Six Pack Rings, Plastic Bags, Clothing, Rubber Items, Ceramics, Shrink Wrap, Loose Plastic Bottle Caps, Candles with Wax and Window Glass.
Also note: no flower pots, bulky ridged items or laundry baskets. More items may apply, and this list may be expanded in the future. If you have any questions, please call (772) 770-5112.
Shredded Paper:
The new processors will not accept shredded paper as a recyclable item because the small pieces fall through their conveyors and end up going into the landfill. Since shredded paper should be placed in the garbage, you should shred confidential information only and not shred more paper than necessary. Consider tearing it up and placing it in your recycling cart. Shredded paper can also be used for compost, packing material or bedding for small animals. There are also local stores that will recycle shredded paper for a minimal fee.
Batteries:
Batteries cannot be placed in the recycling cart or bins. Some batteries, such as rechargeable batteries, automobile batteries, cell phone batteries, and button batteries can be recycled at the Customer Convenience Centers or the Main County Landfill.
Anything Contaminated:
Do not attempt to recycle anything contaminated with food. This includes pizza boxes. Please throw it in the trash.