Mail in recycling
Mail-in recycling, also known as curbside recycling or doorstep recycling, is a convenient way to recycle household waste. Here's how it typically works:
How it works:
- Sign up: Contact your local waste management provider or municipality to sign up for mail-in recycling services.
- Get a bin: You'll receive a designated bin or container to collect your recyclables.
- Collect recyclables: Collect your recyclable materials, such as paper, plastic, glass, and metal, in the designated bin.
- Place bin at the curb: On the designated collection day, place the bin at the curb or in a designated recycling area.
- Collection: The waste management provider will collect the bin and transport it to a recycling facility.
- Sorting and processing: The recyclables are sorted and processed at the facility, and the materials are transformed into new products.
What can be recycled:
The types of materials that can be recycled through mail-in recycling programs vary depending on your location. Common recyclables include:
- Paper and cardboard (newspaper, cardboard boxes, junk mail, etc.)
- Plastic bottles, jugs, and containers (#1-7)
- Glass bottles and jars
- Metal cans (aluminum, steel, and tin)
- Corrugated cardboard boxes
- Newspaper and magazine inserts
- Cartons (milk, juice, and egg cartons)
Tips for successful mail-in recycling:
- Know what's accepted: Check with your local waste management provider to know what materials are accepted in your mail-in recycling program.
- Rinse and sort: Rinse food and liquid residue from containers and sort materials by type (e.g., paper, plastic, glass).
- Flatten cardboard: Flatten cardboard boxes to save space and make them easier to collect.
- Remove lids and labels: Remove lids, caps, and labels from containers to ensure proper sorting and processing.
- Participate regularly: Make recycling a habit by participating regularly and keeping your bin clean and organized.
Benefits of mail-in recycling:
- Convenience: Mail-in recycling is a convenient way to recycle without having to sort and transport materials to a recycling center.
- Increased recycling rates: Mail-in recycling programs can increase recycling rates by making it easier for households to participate.
- Reduced waste: Mail-in recycling helps reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and conserves natural resources.
- Job creation: The recycling industry creates jobs and stimulates local economies.
Overall, mail-in recycling is a simple and effective way to reduce waste and contribute to a more sustainable future.