Got a question about what can be recycled in James City County? You’ve come to the right place!
Here at James City County, we’re passionate about keeping our environment clean and healthy. Recycling is one of the biggest ways we can do that. It’s not just about throwing things in a bin; it’s a whole process that requires a bit of know-how. 2024 brings some exciting changes to recycling in James City County, so let’s dive into the details.
To get started, you need a solid understanding of your local rules and what materials are accepted for collection.
Before we jump into specifics, there’s a little background info to set us up. James City County’s recycling program is run by the Virginia Department of Waste Management, with support from our dedicated team. But don’t worry, we make it easy and accessible! We know you probably have questions. So, let’s clear the air and address them head-on.
The first thing to remember is that recycling isn’t about getting rid of everything—it’s about finding new life for materials already in our lives. Think of it like a second chance for things we might otherwise throw away! It’s not just about saving money or energy; it’s about protecting our planet.
The most common material you likely encounter is paper, and this includes everything from newspapers to junk mail and cardboard boxes. Just remember these key points when recycling your paper:
- Flatten your cardboard for easier collection. It’ll make it lighter and more manageable for the waste management team.
- Ensure that all loose staples are removed before tossing paper in the bin.
- Avoid putting plastic coated paper and magazines in the recycling bin; these can contaminate the whole batch!
And if you’re wondering, what about other types of recyclables? Let me tell you about plastics. There are a few key things to remember when it comes to plastic:
- **Always check the number on the recycling symbol!** The number or letters on that symbol will indicate whether your particular plastic can be recycled in James City County.
- **Plastic containers and bottles should always be rinsed and empty before tossing them. ** Even if it’s just a little bit of leftover food, make sure to remove any residue before you put the item in the recycling bin.
Now, let’s talk about glass, the iconic clear, brown, or green bottles & jars that we all know and love. Glass is a valuable material that can be recycled over and over again. Just remember these rules for safely recycling your glass:
- **Make sure there’s no food residue on top or inside glass containers before you put them out!** You don’t want anyone to have an unpleasant experience with a little bit of leftover chili sauce in their hands.
- **When putting your glass out for recycling, make sure it is well-separated from other materials. ** Don’t mix your glass bottles and jars with plastics or paper!
It’s not all about throwing things away! Did you know that batteries are a special case in the world of recycling? They need to be handled differently due to their potential hazards.
For our battery-loving friends, here’s what you need to know:
- **Don’t just toss your batteries anywhere!** They must be disposed of in a special way. Look for designated recycling bins or drop off boxes at places like grocery stores and hardware shops.
- **You can also check with local retailers if they offer battery recycling programs.** Some outlets provide convenient ways to recycle these hazardous materials, making the process more seamless and efficient.
Now, let’s talk about what you should definitely *not* throw away in your recycling bin. Because sometimes, something might be too tricky to sort out. Here’s a quick list of items that can contaminate your whole recycling batch:
- **Anything with food residue!** This includes anything from sauce and oil stains to bits of leftover pizza.
- **Electronics!** Don’t put your old TVs, laptops, or cell phones in the recycling bin. These items often contain hazardous materials that need special handling.
- **Aerosols and paints!** These are dangerous substances that can cause serious harm to the environment and potentially even yourself if mishandled!
Remember, James City County is your partner in this journey towards a cleaner and greener future. If you have more questions about recycling or need assistance understanding what materials are accepted, don’t hesitate to reach out to our dedicated team of experts. We’re here to help!
