Put a ‘lid’ on your common recycling questions

Here in Lane County, curbside mixed recycling includes more plastic items than ever, thanks to Oregon’s new Recycling Modernization Act. Let’s review some key points.

• Plastic tubs from dairy and other food products are recyclable. Plastic plant packaging and plastic buckets from pet products are on the list, too.

• Recycle plastic caps by firmly threading the cap onto an empty, dry bottle or jug, then place the container in the bin.

• To make the most of your recycling, remember these tips:

  • Plastic containers must be at least 2” deep and 2” wide to be recycled.

  • Throw away loose caps.

  • Plastic buckets must be small enough to fit loosely in the bin.

  • Flat, flexible lids from margarine or cottage cheese containers are not recyclable. Flat lids get mixed with the paper and are difficult to separate.

  • Recycled materials must be loose, not nested or bagged.

  • Plastic packaging from lawn care and automotive products is not allowed in mixed recycling. Please throw them away.

    
    

Download the Waste Wise Lane County app at lanecountyor.gov/recycle to answer many common recycling questions regarding many materials, including plastic bags and Styrofoam.

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Daniel Hiestand has been the Lane County Waste Reduction Outreach Coordinator since 2022. Waste Wise Lane County empowers residents, schools and businesses with resources to reduce waste and live sustainably.

Follow us online: Facebook.com/WasteWiseLaneCounty