East Brunswick residents are increasingly focused on environmental responsibility, and maximizing your curbside recycling program is a fantastic way to contribute. This guide provides comprehensive tips and tricks to ensure you're recycling correctly and efficiently, helping to keep our community green and clean. We'll cover everything from accepted materials to common mistakes and answer frequently asked questions. Let's dive in!
What Materials Can I Recycle in East Brunswick?
East Brunswick's recycling program accepts a range of materials. Generally, this includes:
- Paper: Newspapers, magazines, cardboard (flattened), junk mail, paperboard, and more. Please remove any plastic wrap or labels if possible.
- Plastics: Check the resin identification code (the number inside the chasing arrows symbol). East Brunswick typically accepts #1 and #2 plastics, but it's always best to verify the most up-to-date list on the official Township website. Rinse containers before disposal.
- Glass: Clear, green, and brown glass bottles and jars. Caps and lids should be removed and disposed of separately (check if they are recyclable).
- Metal: Aluminum cans, steel and tin cans. Empty and rinse them thoroughly.
- Cartons: These include juice boxes, milk cartons, and soup containers. Again, rinse them clean before placing them in the recycling bin.
Important Note: Always refer to the official East Brunswick Township website for the most accurate and up-to-date list of accepted recyclables. Regulations can change, and it's crucial to stay informed.
What Can't I Recycle in East Brunswick?
Several items are commonly mistaken for recyclables but are not accepted in East Brunswick's curbside program. These include:
- Plastic bags and films: These often jam recycling machinery. Many grocery stores have plastic bag recycling bins.
- Styrofoam: This type of plastic is difficult to recycle.
- Diapers: These are considered sanitary waste.
- Food waste: Composting is a better option for food scraps.
- Broken glass: This poses a safety risk to sanitation workers. Wrap it carefully before disposal in the regular trash.
- Hazardous waste: Items like batteries, electronics, and paint should be disposed of through designated hazardous waste collection programs.
Knowing what not to recycle is just as important as knowing what to recycle.
How Do I Prepare My Recyclables?
Proper preparation ensures efficient and effective recycling. Here's how to optimize your recycling process:
- Rinse and clean containers: Food residue can contaminate other recyclables.
- Flatten cardboard boxes: This saves space and prevents them from blowing away.
- Remove lids and caps: These often contain different materials and should be disposed of separately (check if they are recyclable).
- Loosely bag recyclables (if necessary): Use a clear plastic bag to prevent items from spilling or scattering. However, avoid overfilling the bag.
- Separate materials: Don't mix recyclables with trash.
What if I'm Unsure if Something is Recyclable?
When in doubt, throw it out. Contaminating a batch of recyclables can render the entire load unusable. Refer to the official East Brunswick Township website for clarification, or contact the township's waste management department.
How Often is Recycling Collected in East Brunswick?
(This section needs to be completed with information specific to East Brunswick's recycling collection schedule. This information should be obtained from the official Township website.)
What Happens to My Recycled Materials?
(This section needs to be filled with information on where East Brunswick's recycled materials are processed and what they are used for. This information can also be sourced from the official Township website.)
Why is Proper Recycling Important for East Brunswick?
Proper recycling conserves natural resources, reduces landfill waste, and lowers greenhouse gas emissions. By participating actively in the East Brunswick recycling program, you contribute directly to a cleaner, healthier environment for our community.
By following these guidelines, you can significantly improve your curbside recycling efforts and contribute to a more sustainable East Brunswick. Remember to always consult the official Township website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on recycling regulations and accepted materials.
