Chloe Zhang
DuPage County, IL, offers a variety of recycling options to its residents and businesses. The county has developed an online guide to help residents identify what can and cannot be recycled, and how to manage specific materials. DuPage County has partnered with various organizations to facilitate the recycling of different materials, including electronics, clothing, textiles, batteries, plastic, and construction and demolition debris. The county also provides information on drop-off locations and schedules for recycling various materials.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Recyclable plastic numbers | #1, #2, #3 |
| Recyclable plastic types | Soda, water and flavored beverage plastic bottles (clear and green), laundry detergent containers, milk and water jugs, household cleaners, beauty product containers |
| Non-recyclable plastic numbers | 3, 4, 6, 7 |
| Recyclable items | Metal cans and jars, paper, cardboard, cell phones, clothing, household goods, electronics, paint, carpeting, compact fluorescent light bulbs, plastic bags and wrap |
| Non-recyclable items | Plastic bags, unnumbered plastics |
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What You'll Learn
- #1 Plastic: Soda, water and flavoured beverage bottles (clear and green)
- #2 Plastic: Laundry detergent containers, milk and water jugs
- #3 Plastic: Household cleaners, beauty product containers
- Plastic bags and wrap are recyclable but not in curbside recycling
- DuPage County has an online recycling guide and a collection schedule
#1 Plastic: Soda, water and flavoured beverage bottles (clear and green)
DuPage County, Illinois, offers a comprehensive recycling program for its residents. The county provides a drop-off recycling guide and an online recycling guide to help residents properly manage their waste. Recycling is divided into two categories: curbside and non-curbside (drop-off).
#1 Plastic, which includes clear and green soda, water, and flavoured beverage bottles, is widely recyclable in DuPage County. These PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) plastic bottles are highly recyclable, lightweight, shatterproof, and designed to withstand the pressures of carbonated beverages. They are a popular choice for soft drinks and sparkling water manufacturers due to their practicality, durability, and sustainability.
To recycle #1 Plastic bottles in DuPage County, residents can refer to the online resources provided by the county. The Recycle Coach tool and the DuPage County Online Recycling Guide app can provide specific information on what materials are accepted and the locations of drop-off points. Additionally, the county's website offers a community collection schedule, educational resources, and alerts for special recycling events and holidays.
It is important to note that proper cleaning and preparation of the plastic bottles before recycling are essential. Residents should ensure that the bottles are empty, clean, and dry. Removing caps or lids and disposing of them separately may also be required. By following these simple steps, residents can play a crucial role in reducing waste and contributing to a more sustainable environment in DuPage County.
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#2 Plastic: Laundry detergent containers, milk and water jugs
In DuPage County, Illinois, recycling is split into two categories: curbside and non-curbside (drop-off) recycling. The county provides a detailed online guide for non-curbside recycling drop-offs, which includes a search field to check what can be recycled and where.
#2 plastic, or high-density polyethylene (HDPE), is used to make containers for laundry detergent, milk, and water. These containers can be recycled in DuPage County, but it is important to ensure that they are empty, clean, and dry before placing them in your recycling bin or taking them to a drop-off location.
To properly recycle #2 plastic containers, start by rinsing them with water to remove any residual product. Next, make sure the containers are completely dry before placing them in your recycling bin or taking them to a drop-off location. It is important to check with your local recycling program or refer to the DuPage County online guide to confirm accepted materials and any specific preparation requirements.
Additionally, consider reducing your use of plastic laundry detergent containers by exploring alternative products or refill options. Some companies offer laundry detergent refills in paper sleeves or glass jars, reducing the amount of plastic waste generated. By being mindful of the types of products we purchase and properly disposing of our waste, we can contribute to a more sustainable future.
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#3 Plastic: Household cleaners, beauty product containers
DuPage County, Illinois, offers both curbside and non-curbside (drop-off) recycling. The county's website provides a search tool and an app to help residents identify what can be recycled and where to drop off materials for recycling.
#3 plastic, or PVC (polyvinyl chloride), is commonly used for household cleaning products and beauty product containers. It is recyclable, but it can be challenging to recycle because it is often contaminated with harmful chemicals.
Some companies are now offering household cleaning and beauty products in recyclable packaging. For example, Package Free offers cleaning products in 100% recyclable packaging, and Blueland products are low-waste and come in refillable packaging. Common Good's cleaning products come in recyclable glass and low-plastic packaging that can be refilled at the brand's refill stations worldwide or online.
For residents of DuPage County, it is recommended to use the county's online resources to find out the specific locations and guidelines for recycling #3 plastic.
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Plastic bags and wrap are recyclable but not in curbside recycling
DuPage County, Illinois, has a comprehensive recycling program, which includes both curbside and non-curbside (drop-off) recycling. The county provides a detailed online guide to help residents understand what can be recycled and where to take items.
For plastic bags and wrap, also known as "plastic film", residents are directed to use a drop-off service. This is because plastic bags and wrap can cause issues in the recycling machinery when placed in curbside recycling bins.
The DuPage County Drop-off Recycling Guide provides detailed information on where and how to recycle various materials. The guide includes information on drop-off locations for specific materials, such as electronics, batteries, books, paint, and more. The county also offers a Recycle Coach tool and a mobile app to help residents easily access information about their community collection schedules, drop-off locations, and educational resources related to recycling.
In addition to the county's resources, residents can also refer to local initiatives, such as the Go Green Glen Ellyn campaign, which provides further guidance on recycling practices specific to the Glen Ellyn area within DuPage County.
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DuPage County has an online recycling guide and a collection schedule
DuPage County offers a comprehensive online recycling guide and a collection schedule to help residents properly dispose of their waste. The online guide provides detailed information on various recyclable materials and the designated drop-off locations.
The county's recycling program is divided into two main categories: curbside and non-curbside (drop-off) recycling. The online guide serves as a valuable resource for residents to determine the appropriate method for disposing of specific items. It covers a wide range of materials, including electronics, appliances, textiles, and hazardous waste.
For instance, residents can learn about the proper disposal of electronic waste, such as computers, laptops, servers, monitors, printers, and televisions. DuPage County has partnered with organisations like eWorks and RewearAble to facilitate the recycling and reuse of certain items, such as clothing and textiles. Additionally, the county provides specific locations and schedules for drop-off recycling, with sites like the Addison Township Highway Department and Aurora - Kane County at Ace Hardware on Lake Street, open on specific dates and times.
The online guide also addresses the disposal of hazardous materials. The Regional Household Hazardous Waste Facility in Naperville accepts oil-based paint and other hazardous items during specified weekends. Similarly, the Burr Ridge Police Department lobby offers a safe disposal service for unwanted or expired prescription and over-the-counter drugs from Monday to Friday.
To make the recycling process more convenient, DuPage County offers the Recycle Coach tool and a mobile app. These resources enable residents to search for specific materials, find drop-off locations, and stay updated on their community collection schedules. Users can also set alerts and reminders for their collection days, holidays, and special announcements.
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Frequently asked questions
The following plastic numbers/types are recyclable: #1 Plastic (soda, water, and flavored beverage bottles), #2 Plastic (laundry detergent containers, milk and water jugs), and #3 Plastic (household cleaners, beauty product containers).
Other materials that can be recycled include electronics, latex paint, carpeting, clothing, and household goods.
Yes, there are several drop-off locations for recycling in DuPage County. Some common locations include the Public Works Facility, Addison Township Highway Department, and Aurora - Kane County at Ace Hardware on Lake Street.
Yes, the DuPage County website provides an online recycling guide and a Recycle Coach tool to help residents determine how to manage specific materials.
Yes, DuPage County hosts various events and programs related to recycling. One example is the Construction and Demolition Debris Recycling program, which aims to reduce waste sent to landfills.
