Show All Answers

1. What do the little numbers on the bottom of plastic containers represent or stand for?

The numbers on the bottom of plastic containers are resin identification codes and they indicate the type of plastic a container is made from. The codes are not intended to mean that a particular product is recyclable, which is why recycling programs identify what plastic products are acceptable and are not acceptable.

2. Can I bag my recyclables?

If you want to bag recyclables, you can do so in paper bags. However, avoid bagging recyclables in trash bags as they will likely be mistaken for trash in the recycling facility and won't get sorted.

3. What should I do with Styrofoam packing materials?

The UPS Stores at 380 Knollwood St., and 550 N. Liberty St., here in Winston-Salem will accept any clean packing materials for reuse. The styrofoam needs to be clean, otherwise the stores will not be able to reuse it. They will also accept bubble wrap.

4. Should plastic bottle caps be recycled or not?

Plastic bottle caps can be recycled if left on the plastic bottle. But remember to empty and rinse the plastic bottle before putting the lid on to ensure it is properly prepared to be recycled.

5. Do I need to take the labels off jars and cans?

No, labels are okay.

6. How clean do containers need to be before I toss them into the recycling cart?

All you need to do is simply rinse the containers. There is no need to wash them.

7. Why can't I recycle pizza boxes?

Pizza boxes generally contain grease and/or food residue that make them unable to be recycled.

8. Do I have to separate glass, plastic, aluminum, and steel?

 No. Place all you recyclables in your blue rollout cart.

9. Should I step on plastic bottles and crush cans before recycling?

Only if you need more capacity in your cart.

10. What are the basic procedures for recycling aluminum cans?

Basic procedures for aluminum cans involve emptying and rinsing them. You do not need to crush unless you need more space in your cart.

11. Is paper worth any money when you recycle it?

Yes.

12. What can I do with packing peanuts?

Save packing peanuts for personal use or check with packaging service stores to see if they will accept them.