As a Valrico renter, you may be contemplating what you can do to live more sustainably. For a lot of individuals, sustainable living begins with recycling plastic, cardboard, or other materials. But what many don’t realize is that not all of these things can be recycled. Just because a certain item is made of plastic, glass, metal, or cardboard does not mean that it is recyclable. And putting non-recyclable items into a recycling bin is kind of a big waste of your time as well as for the processing center. Here are some things that may help you recycle the right way.
Plastics
To distinguish which plastic materials are recyclable and which aren’t, experts suggest going by container shape. A typical rule would be that plastic bottles, jugs, jars, and tubs can be recycled. Just make sure to rinse out and dry each container before placing it in the recycling bin.
But mind you, the list of plastic items that cannot be recycled is pretty long, so don’t let it come as a surprise to you. To cite an example, plastic utensils and straws are not recyclable while plastic food containers and water bottles usually are. Other things that cannot be recycled include Styrofoam, plastic shower curtains, syringes, and medical waste.
Furthermore, plastic shopping bags, shrink wrap, and other sets of plastic wrap should not be placed in your recycling center. These materials usually clog up the machines, and they also end up in the landfill. So instead, these items are mostly recycled separately at drop-off locations in grocery stores. Finally, do not place recycling in bags – the bag can be a problem at the processing center.
Glass
Recycling glass can be more complicated than a lot of people think, mainly because processing centers don’t take in some types of glass. In certain places, the centers will not allow any glass at all. While others will only accept a certain kind of glass. Be certain to check the rules at your local processing center prior to putting glass items in the bin.
However, there are certain kinds of glass that are just not recyclable at all. These include windows and mirrors, eyeglasses, vases, oven-safe ceramic cookware or dishes, and fluorescent light tubes. Due to the fact that these items have been treated with coatings or contain hazardous chemicals, they can in no way be safely recycled and should be disposed of through other means.
Metal
The same as glass, not all processing centers let in metal for recycling. Generally speaking, if you own metal items that you wish to recycle, you’ll need to look for a place specializing in metal recycling. Many regular processing centers will not take in metals like car parts, propane cylinders, aerosol cans, clothes hangers, and so on.
In the same way, old televisions and electronics could not be easily sent to your local recycling center. The electronic components of these items can become more complex than most recycling centers can handle. Instead, try to find a local electronics shop that will allow your old electronics. Certain companies will allow old electronics, including cell phones and tablets, that are broken or no longer wanted.
Cardboard, Paper, and Wood
Many types of cardboard, paper, and wood can be safely recycled, while others are to be placed in the trash bin instead. Most processing centers allow newspapers, notebook paper, and magazines. It’s the same for flattened packing boxes, cereal boxes, and food delivery boxes. Untreated wood items are also generally all right, but it depends on what items your local recycling center is willing to take.
Still, it’s vital to note that certain cardboard, paper, and wood types are not recyclable. This includes grease-soaked pizza boxes (a few streaks of oil is okay), waxed paper cartons, and treated wood, including painted or stained furniture. Books and some types of paper are also not recyclable, so it’s vital to separate your paper items carefully before placing them in the trash bin.
By recycling correctly, you are helping your community as a renter. But if your neighborhood will not support your desire for more sustainability, Real Property Management Empire can help! You can check out our listings online or call at 813-867-7300.
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