Maya Ellison
Baltimore City offers a range of recycling services to its residents, including plastic recycling. The city's recycling program helps protect the environment by reducing trash, preventing pollution, and minimizing the negative impact on the climate. While the city encourages recycling, it is important to note that not all plastics are accepted in the program. So, which plastic types are actually recyclable in Baltimore City?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic Numbers Accepted | 1, 2, possibly 5 |
| Plastic Types Accepted | Bottles, jugs, jars, tubs, buckets, drinking cups, flower pots, toys, laundry baskets, milk crates, soda crates, water bottles, detergent/bleach bottles, juice bottles, milk jugs, soda bottles, shampoo and conditioner bottles, household cleaning product containers, plastic bags, plastic drums, coolers, flower pots, water bottles, pallets, pet carriers, shelving, closet organizers, garbage/recycling bins |
| Plastic Types Not Accepted | Plastic bags, Styrofoam, plastic film, clamshells (salad containers, packaging for toys and batteries), CD jewel cases, motor oil containers, VHS tapes, plastic wrap, plastic utensils, plastic cookware, plastic to-go cartons, plastic straws, plastic stretch, tanglers |
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What You'll Learn
- Plastic bottles, cups, plates, buckets, jugs, jars, tubs, and trays
- Plastic bags, shrink wrap, and plastic film are not accepted
- Rigid plastics, including buckets, drinking cups, flower pots, and toys
- Non-packaging plastics, such as toys, toothbrushes, and pens
- Electronics, excluding TV/computer monitors, can be recycled at drop-off facilities
Plastic bottles, cups, plates, buckets, jugs, jars, tubs, and trays
Baltimore City accepts type 1 and 2 plastics, and may also accept type 5. Plastic bags, even if marked as recyclable, are not accepted in the County's recycling program. Plastic bags must not be used to set out recyclables for collection.
Before recycling, food and beverage containers should be lightly rinsed and cleaned to avoid food contamination. Pizza boxes can be recycled if they are not heavily soiled with grease, cheese, or food. If the bottom of the pizza box is too soiled, the top can be torn off and recycled.
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Plastic bags, shrink wrap, and plastic film are not accepted
In Baltimore, the types of plastics that are accepted for recycling may vary depending on the specific guidelines of the city or county. According to some sources, Baltimore City accepts Type 1 and 2 plastics, and may also accept Type 5. However, it's important to note that the presence of a recycling symbol or number on a plastic item does not necessarily indicate that it is recyclable in your area. These symbols are resin identification codes designed to make consumers more comfortable with purchasing plastic products.
When it comes to plastic bags, shrink wrap, and plastic film, it's important to note that these materials are not accepted in Baltimore County's recycling program, even if they are marked as recyclable. This restriction includes using plastic bags to contain other recyclables for collection. Malfunctions can occur when plastic bags and similar "tanglers" (long or stretchy items) get caught in the processing equipment at the Materials Recovery Facility, causing operational disruptions, endangering workers, and generating additional costs.
To ensure proper disposal and recycling, it is recommended to avoid using plastic bags altogether and opt for reusable bags when shopping. This helps to reduce the amount of plastic waste and minimizes the risk of tanglers interfering with the recycling process.
In January 2020, Baltimore took a significant step towards reducing plastic bag waste by passing the Baltimore City Comprehensive Bag Reduction Act. This legislation banned single-use plastic bags at the point of sale, pickup, or delivery and imposed a fee for other types of bags, such as paper or compostable bags. The implementation of this Act demonstrates Baltimore's commitment to addressing plastic pollution and its negative impact on the environment.
While plastic bags, shrink wrap, and plastic film are not accepted in Baltimore County's recycling program, there are alternative options for these materials. Some grocery stores and retailers have collection programs for plastic bags, allowing for proper disposal or recycling through specialized processes. Additionally, residents can play a crucial role in reducing plastic waste by choosing reusable bags whenever possible and avoiding single-use plastics.
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Rigid plastics, including buckets, drinking cups, flower pots, and toys
In Baltimore, rigid plastics, including buckets, drinking cups, flower pots, and toys, are accepted in the city's recycling program. However, it is important to note that not all plastics are recyclable, and the acceptability of certain plastic items may vary depending on the specific guidelines and capabilities of Baltimore's recycling facilities.
Rigid plastics are a category of plastic items that are typically thick, hard, and maintain their shape. They are often used to create durable products such as buckets, drinking cups, flower pots, and toys. These items can be recycled and given a new life instead of ending up in landfills.
To recycle rigid plastics in Baltimore, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure the items are empty, clean, and dry. Remove any residual products, such as dirt or liquids, by rinsing or scraping if necessary. This helps prevent food contamination and ensures that your recyclables are in a recyclable condition.
Secondly, check with your local guidelines or recycling center to confirm the specific types of rigid plastics they accept. While Baltimore generally accepts rigid plastics, there may be variations depending on your location within the city or county. Some areas might have different drop-off centers or collection processes, so it's essential to refer to the guidelines specific to your area.
Additionally, it is important to separate rigid plastics from other recyclable materials, such as paper, cardboard, or glass. Proper sorting ensures that the recycling process runs smoothly and reduces the risk of contamination. Keep your rigid plastics separate from other recyclables and place them in the appropriate recycling bin or take them to the designated drop-off center.
It is worth noting that Baltimore's recycling program does not accept certain plastic items. For example, plastic bags, despite sometimes being marked as recyclable, are not accepted in Baltimore's recycling program. They can cause malfunctions in processing equipment and should be avoided. Other non-recyclable plastic items include Styrofoam, plastic clam shells, CD jewel cases, and motor oil containers, among others.
By understanding what types of rigid plastics are recyclable in Baltimore and following the proper recycling guidelines, you can play a part in reducing plastic waste and contributing to a more sustainable future for the city. Remember to stay informed about any updates or changes to the accepted recyclables and always practice responsible consumption and waste management.
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Non-packaging plastics, such as toys, toothbrushes, and pens
Baltimore City residents can recycle non-packaging plastics such as toys, toothbrushes, and pens at one of the DPW Citizens' Convenience Drop-Off Centers. These centers accept a wide range of materials for recycling, including hard plastics, scrap metal, household hazardous waste, and electronics. However, it is important to note that these items cannot be recycled through the regular curbside recycling program and must be taken to the designated drop-off locations.
When recycling non-packaging plastics and other items, residents should keep in mind that certain materials are not accepted in the city's recycling program. For example, plastic bags, despite sometimes being marketed as "recyclable" or "compostable," are not acceptable for recycling in Baltimore. Similarly, tanglers, such as plastic bags, clothing, linens, rope, electrical cords, and chains, can cause malfunctions in the processing equipment and should be avoided.
In addition to the Drop-Off Centers, Baltimore City offers electronic recycling or eCycling at specific locations. Residents can recycle items such as printed circuit boards, white goods (stoves, refrigerators, washers, dryers, air conditioners), and other scrap metal. These items must be placed in the designated containers marked "electronics" at the drop-off centers.
It is recommended that residents properly dispose of their non-packaging plastics and other recyclables to reduce their environmental impact. This includes reducing plastic consumption and properly sorting and cleaning recyclables before taking them to the appropriate drop-off locations. By following the guidelines provided by the Baltimore City Department of Public Works, residents can do their part in contributing to a more sustainable future.
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Electronics, excluding TV/computer monitors, can be recycled at drop-off facilities
Baltimore City appears to only accept type 1 and 2 plastics for recycling, and possibly type 5. Plastic bags, even those marketed as "recyclable", are not accepted in the County's recycling program.
Now, regarding electronics recycling in Baltimore County, there are three trash and recycling drop-off centers that accept a range of electronic items. Firstly, it is recommended that residents first contact electronics manufacturers or retailers to inquire about any electronics take-back or recycling programs they may offer. Some of these programs are free or low-cost. Information about electronics recycling can also be found on the website of the Maryland Department of the Environment, including a list of registered electronics manufacturers. Unwanted electronics can also be donated to charities or reuse organizations, but it is important to contact them beforehand to ensure they can accept the items.
For those looking to recycle household electronics, Baltimore County's drop-off facilities accept small appliances such as coffee makers, electric mixers, blenders (without glass containers), toasters, and countertop microwaves. Computer accessories and peripherals like mice, keyboards, power supplies, scanners, and printers are also accepted. Electronic generators, including solar panel accessories and light fixtures, can be recycled, but no business or institutional materials are accepted.
Additionally, Baltimore County has expanded its electronics recycling program in partnership with Securis to include more complex items such as CRT televisions with leaded glass, hard drives, and flat-screen monitors. This program aims to keep these waste products out of landfills and ensure they are recycled responsibly.
It is important to note that residents of apartments and condominiums should check with their property managers to understand how recycling collection works in their community.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic bottles and jars with the recycling symbol #1 through #7 are accepted for recycling in Baltimore City. This includes detergent/bleach bottles, juice bottles, milk jugs, soda bottles, and water bottles.
No, plastic bags are not accepted in Baltimore City's recycling program, even if they are marked as recyclable.
Yes, Baltimore City has multiple Citizen Drop-Off Centers where residents can recycle plastics and other materials.
In addition to plastics, Baltimore City accepts paper, cardboard, metal, glass, and electronic waste for recycling.
Plastic items should be empty and clean before placing them in the recycling. Narrow-neck plastic bottles and jars are preferred, and it is recommended to lightly rinse any heavily soiled items.
