Ethan Clarke
Plastic recycling is a complex process that requires diligence and attention to detail from residents. In New Jersey, understanding which types of plastics are recyclable is essential for proper waste management. With the recent changes in foreign markets and stricter standards for recyclables, it's more important than ever for residents to be aware of the acceptable plastics for recycling. This includes knowing the numbers on plastic containers and the specific guidelines for each county in New Jersey. By staying informed and taking the necessary steps, residents can contribute to more efficient recycling and conservation efforts in their communities.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Recyclable plastics | #1, #2 |
| Non-recyclable plastics | #3, #4, #5, #6, #7 |
| Recyclable plastic items | Soda bottles, water bottles, milk jugs, laundry detergent bottles |
| Non-recyclable plastic items | Plastic bags, plastic wrap, Styrofoam, pizza boxes, shredded paper, food waste containers, plastic egg cartons, dishware, glass, mirrors, paper towels, clothes hangers, flower pots, video tapes, pots and pans, light bulbs, batteries, hoses, syringes, medical waste |
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What You'll Learn
Plastics #1 and #2 are recyclable in NJ
In New Jersey, only plastics #1 and #2 are accepted for curbside recycling. This includes items such as soda bottles, water bottles, milk jugs, and laundry detergent bottles. These two types of plastic make up the majority of plastic containers in the waste stream.
Previously, residents could include all types of plastics in their "`single-stream`" recycling, which allowed for plastics, paper, glass, and metal to be placed in the same receptacle. However, due to changes in the foreign recycling market, the Cumberland County Improvement Authority (CCIA) will only accept plastics #1 and #2 for recycling. This change means that residents will need to pay closer attention to the numbers on plastic items and sort their recycling more carefully.
Plastics #3, #4, #5, #6, and #7 must now be placed in the regular trash. These plastics tend to contribute to food waste contamination in the "single-stream" mix, resulting in poorer quality cardboard and paper being marketed for recycling. It is important to separate these plastics from the rest of the recycling to maintain the quality of recyclable materials.
To ensure effective recycling, it is also crucial to remove non-recyclable caps and lids from plastic items and to rinse out containers with food and drink residue. These steps help keep recycling costs down and contribute to a healthier planet.
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Plastics #3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 are not
In New Jersey, plastics #3, #4, #5, #6, and #7 are not recyclable and need to be thrown in the regular trash. This is because there is very little market demand for these plastics, and recycling centers will not accept them. Recycling is about reusing materials as feedstock for other products, and there is no demand for these plastics to be recycled into new products.
Plastics #3 and #6 have never been accepted for mixed recycling pickup in New Jersey. Now, plastics numbered #4, #5, and #7 must also be excluded. This is due to broader market changes for recyclable materials. Previously, the United States, including New Jersey, had the luxury of shipping unscreened plastics to China for recycling. However, China is no longer accepting plastic waste from the United States, leading to a reduction in the types of plastics that can be recycled.
The market for recycled plastics is influenced by the prices in the commodities market for different types of materials. The demand for recycled plastics is low, and the cost of recycling is high, further reducing the incentive to recycle these materials. Additionally, recycling centers incur higher costs when non-recyclable materials are included in recycling bins, reducing the overall value of recycling.
To ensure effective recycling, it is essential to separate recyclable and non-recyclable materials. Plastics #1 and #2 are accepted in recycling containers in New Jersey, while plastics #3, #4, #5, #6, and #7 belong in the regular trash. Properly sorting and cleaning recyclables helps keep costs down and ensures that recyclable materials can be effectively reused.
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Plastic bags are not accepted in recycling bins
In New Jersey, #1 and #2 plastics should go in the recycling container. Any #3, #4, #5, #6, or #7 plastics should be placed in the regular trash. However, plastic bags are not accepted in recycling bins and should be avoided.
Plastic bags are the leading cause of contamination in the recycling stream. They clog the machinery used to process recyclable materials, resulting in operational problems, facility shutdowns, and safety hazards for employees. These lightweight plastic materials are also prone to becoming airborne and creating environmental hazards. As a result, recycling facilities are forced to send all bagged recyclables and loose plastic bags to landfills. To ensure your recyclables are recycled, keep them loose in the bin.
While recycling centers may not accept plastic bags, there are other ways to dispose of them properly. Some local retailers and drop-off centers have recycling bins for plastic bags and film packaging. These retailers collect plastic film from consumers and back-of-store packaging, which is then recycled into new products. Additionally, some companies, like Trex, specialize in recycling plastic bags and film into durable plastic lumber for outdoor use.
It is important to note that recycling practices may vary depending on your municipality. It is always a good idea to check with your local recycling center or refer to their website for specific guidelines and updates on how to handle plastic bags and other materials. Taking the time to properly sort and clean recyclables can make a significant impact on the environment and ensure that your efforts are not in vain.
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Plastic wrap and Styrofoam are also non-recyclable
In New Jersey, #1 and #2 plastics should be placed in the recycling container. Any #3, #4, #5, #6, or #7 plastics should be thrown into the regular trash. However, it is important to note that not all items made of #1 and #2 plastics are recyclable. Plastic wrap and Styrofoam, for instance, are non-recyclable.
Plastic wrap, including plastic bags, bubble wrap, and other plastic films, should not be placed in recycling bins as they can clog the recycler's sorting systems. Instead, residents of Union County, New Jersey, can take these items to designated drop-off recycling sites throughout the county. Here, companies like Trex upcycle plastic film into decking and other outdoor products.
Similarly, Styrofoam, or polystyrene, is not recyclable in curbside recycling bins. It is considered a contaminant and can damage sorting systems. However, there are specific drop-off sites for block-type Styrofoam in Union County, New Jersey. Residents can check with their local recycling coordinator to find out if there is a drop-off site available in their municipality.
It is crucial to adhere to local recycling guidelines and properly dispose of non-recyclable materials. When in doubt, it is always better to throw an item in the trash rather than risk contaminating the recycling stream. This ensures the overall effectiveness of the recycling process and helps protect the environment.
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Rinse containers before placing them in recycling
In New Jersey, only #1 and #2 plastics should be placed in the recycling container. While it is important to keep recyclables clean, opinions vary on whether containers need to be rinsed before placing them in the recycling bin. Some sources say that recyclables do not need to be rinsed with water, but they should be emptied and scraped to ensure that food and liquid do not contaminate other items in the recycling cart. However, other sources recommend rinsing containers, especially if they have held food, and allowing them to dry before disposal. This is because food residue can render otherwise recyclable materials unrecyclable.
In Cumberland County, New Jersey, residents are encouraged to pay closer attention to regulations and clean recyclables before tossing them into containers for curbside collection. While it is not necessary to use soap and a sponge to wash containers, rinsing them can help ensure that they are free of residue. This is especially important for containers that held sticky substances such as caramel or gum. Allowing containers to dry before disposal is also crucial, as wet containers can ruin the recycling process in facilities.
It is worth noting that some places have different guidelines for recycling. For example, in Onkaparinga, Adelaide, pizza boxes can be recycled with grease, whereas in other places, greasy food boxes are not recyclable. Checking local guidelines and regulations is always recommended to ensure proper recycling practices.
Overall, while the specific practice of rinsing containers before recycling may vary, it is important to keep recyclables as clean as possible to maximize the chances of successful recycling and minimize contamination. This may involve rinsing containers, scraping off excess food, or both, depending on the specific material and local guidelines.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastics #1 and #2 are recyclable in NJ. These include soda bottles, water bottles, milk jugs, and laundry detergent bottles.
Plastics #3, #4, #5, #6, and #7 are not recyclable and need to be placed in the regular trash.
Plastic bags, plastic wrap, and plastic takeout containers are not recyclable in NJ. Plastic bags are considered the most problematic contaminant found in curbside recycling.
