Curbside recycling programs could be more efficient and cost effective if more citizens understood what items should and should NOT be put in

curbside recycling collections. Contamination is an ongoing problem. When inappropriate items are included in curbside pickups, it increases the sorting and separation required; this means additional time and money. The City of Houston has been producing flyers and updating their website information to better inform citizens on how to "recycle right" for curbside collections. Some basic rules for curbside bins: no plastic bags or plastic film, no plastic #6, no styrofoam or similar plastic foam, no yard waste or trash, no batteries or electronics, no shredded paper, and no food or liquid. Please see the links below that explain what should and should not be put in curbside collections. 

 

Flyer on what NOT to put in City of Houston curbside recycling: 

 

 

Plastic bags and plastic film are typically NOT allowed in curbside recycling, but CAN be recycled at store drop off sites. Plastic bag types that are commonly accepted are #2 HDPE, #4 LDPE, regular grocery sacks, bread bags, and zip lock bags. Make sure that bags are dry, clean, and completely free of food residue. Check the websites below for further details on proper plastic bag recycling and drop off locations.

 

For questions on recycling/solid waste matters, contact Frank Blake at frankblake@juno.com