Recycling Program Changes

Curbside collection programs changed this year with shifts in global recycling markets. China’s decision to embargo the import of some recyclable materials has left US recyclers in the lurch, including our local Monterey Regional Waste Management District (MRWMD). While they scramble to find new international buyers, some materials cannot be recycled and others need to be recycled differently. Our local hauler GreenWaste Recovery is producing a new recycling guide which will be ready early next year.

Due to new, stringent limitations on waste stream contamination, it’s more important than ever to keep materials as clean as possible, and only put truly recyclable items in your bin. The new “What Goes Where?” app can help with that. MRWMD created the app along with Salinas Valley Recycles and local haulers. When you enter an item into the app it will tell you whether it should: go in the garbage, recycling or compost bin; be included in your bulky and reusable item pick-up; or delivered to a nearby drop off station. The database will be updated as changes arise, and users can suggest additional items. Download the app on your IOS or Android device, or access it at the WhatGoesWhere.info website, which has more information and a fun recycling challenge game.

Important changes in recycling

1. Plastic bags can no longer be recycled curbside because they are too dirty for processors in China. Please recycle them at local stores such as Safeway, Lucky, Rite Aid, and Target.
2. Bottle caps should remain on bottles or they will fall through machinery and be landfilled. Crush plastic bottles and put the lid back on, and keep metal lids on glass containers. Recycle metal beer and soda caps.
3. Small electronics like appliances, phones, keyboards, and cameras must be disposed of in your bulky/ reusable item pick-up, not the recycling bin. Customers can request three free pick-ups per year.
4. Styrofoam packing peanuts/blocks, egg cartons, coolers etc. are no longer recyclable and must go in the trash. You can call your local shipping store to see if they accept packaging material for reuse.
5. Recyclables should be as clean as possible, within reason. Water is a precious resource so there’s no need to rinse, but empty out liquids and use a spatula to clean jars. Put soiled cardboard and paper in the garbage.

Most importantly, Reduce, Reuse and Recycle— in that order. The first “R” has the most positive impact, followed by reusing, and recycling as a last resort. Use a refillable water bottle, avoid overpackaged and one-time use products, buy local instead of mail order, use your own to-go mug at the coffee shop, bring your own containers for take-out, and refuse straws and plastic utensils