Get the Scoop on What Can (and Can’t) Go in Your Trash
Life in Shawnee County is bustling, and sometimes it feels like there’s just too much stuff to deal with. But don’t worry, there’s an easy way to make things a little bit easier – recycling! Shawnee County has made the process surprisingly straightforward, and with this guide, you’ll be able to sort your recyclables like a pro in no time.
First off, let’s talk about what you can recycle. Unlike the days of yore, many things that used to end up in the landfill now have a place on the recycling line. It might seem overwhelming at first, but just follow this simple list, and you’ll be on your way:
- Paper: Magazines, newspapers, catalogs, cardboard boxes – all of these can be recycled!
- Plastic: Bottles, jugs, containers. Make sure to check for numbers 1-7 on the bottom, as they signify different types of plastics which should be put in specific bins.
- Metal: Cans, foil, tin cans – anything made from metal that doesn’t have food residue goes in this bin!
Now, you might be thinking, “Great! But what about things I can’t recycle?” Well, there are some items that unfortunately don’t make it into the recycling stream. It’s all about keeping those materials out of the waste stream and minimizing environmental impact.
What Not to Recycle in Shawnee County
Let’s talk about what you should throw away. We want to be clear: there are lots of things that can’t go in your recycling bin, so it’s best to keep them out of the recycling stream. We don’t want to confuse our recycling machines or create extra trash!
- Plastic bags and wraps: These take up space in landfills and are a real pain for recycling facilities.
- Food waste and grease: These items contaminate the entire recycling stream. They can also attract pests, especially mice and rats!
- Glass containers: The recycling process is not equipped to handle glass. These need to be disposed of in regular trash.
- Electronics and batteries: These contain toxic chemicals that are best handled by specialized facilities.
- Medical equipment: This can spread diseases if not properly processed at a medical waste facility.
It’s important to remember that not all materials react the same way in the recycling process. Different types of plastics, for instance, require different processing methods and will need separate bins. To learn more about what goes where, check out your local Shawnee County Recycling Center’s website for a detailed guide.
Finding Your Way Around the System: A Quick Guide to Recycling in Shawnee County!
Understanding the nuances of recycling can be a little confusing with all the different types of bins and what they hold. But don’t worry, it’s not as overwhelming as it seems!
Here’s a quick breakdown of how things work:
- Check your curbside labels: Your recycling bin will look very familiar to you – in fact, most city residents have a specific color-coded bin for their recyclables!
- Recycling Centers: If there’s a question about what can be recycled or where to go to drop off those special items like electronics, visit the Shawnee County Recycling Center. It’s your one-stop shop for all things related to recycling and waste management.
Remember, every little bit counts in the fight against climate change and environmental degradation. By recycling diligently, you’re not just taking care of the planet – you’re doing your part to make Shawnee County a better place!
