Frequently we're faced with the dilemma of not knowing whether an item should be recycled. Wanting to the help the environment, you place an item in the recycling bin without being certain it belongs there. This is called wishcycling, and although well-intentioned it can cause more harm than good. Placing an item like a cardboard pizza box with leftover grease into the recycling bin can potentially send a good batch of recyclables to the landfill due to contamination. Other misplaced items, such as wire hangers, can also damage sorting machinery at collection facilities.
Recycling the right way will benefit the environment. To stop wishcycling you can:
- Contact your hauler or local recycling coordinator for more information on what goes into your blue bin
- Learn what goes into your recycling bin versus what needs to be taken to a Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center
- Research recycling and upcycling online
For more information, visit oclandfills.com. Follow us on social media @OCWaste for more waste management and recycling tips.