Recycling Right: Stick to the Core Four

Recycling doesn’t have to be complicated. One of the easiest ways to recycle right is to focus on the “Core Four.” The four most common materials accepted in local recycling programs are: paper, cardboard, plastic containers, and metal cans. These items are widely recyclable and easy to identify at home.

Newspapers, mail, and office paper can all go in the recycling cart. Cardboard boxes should be flattened before placing them in the cart. Plastic bottles, tubs, and jugs can also be recycled, along with empty aluminum and steel cans. Before placing items in your cart, make sure all containers are empty and dry.

It is just as important to keep the wrong items out of the recycling bin. Plastic bags, bagged recycling, cords, hoses, food waste, batteries and fuel containers should never be placed in your recycling cart because they can contaminate the recycling stream.

By focusing on the Core Four and keeping recyclables clean, empty and loose in your cart, you can help make recycling easier, safer and more effective for everyone in our community.

Click here to download the recycling information card. To sign up for city recycling, click here.