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1. Do we need to remove the thin plastic film used to seal facial tissue boxes?

The thin plastic used to seal facial tissue boxes does not need to be removed before placing them into your recycling roll-cart. The thin piece of plastic is a small contaminant in the paper pulping process and will be disposed of as a result of the processing at the paper mill. However, if you want to take your recycling to the highest level, it is best to take this film off yourself.

2. Do I need to remove the plastic windows on envelopes before recycling?

No, you do not have to remove the small plastic windows on envelopes before placing them into your recycling roll-cart. The small plastic window is removed during the process of recycling at the paper mill.

3. Why can’t I recycle frozen food boxes?

Although it looks the same as other food packaging, the paper used for frozen food boxes is treated with substances to improve the “wet strength” of the paper. Essentially, it prevents the box from getting soggy and falling apart in the freezer or fridge. Unfortunately, the wax-like coating hinders the paper from breaking down properly in the paper pulping process, making the frozen food boxes unfit for recycling in our current system.

4. Can I recycle pizza boxes if they are clean?

Food remnants should be thoroughly removed from the box. These materials attract pests and vermin during transport and processing. Grease stains should be minimal in order for the box to be recycled.

5. Can I recycle shredded paper in our recycling roll-cart?

Shredded paper should be placed in a paper bag and placed inside of your roll-cart. The paper bag ensures that the shredded paper does not scatter during recycling pickup. Do not use plastic bags, as the plastic gets caught in the machinery at the sorting facility and causes costly delays in production and puts workers at risk as they try to remove the jam.

6. Is tape ok on cardboard?

It is ok if small amounts of tape are left on a cardboard box. It is best to remove as much tape as possible before recycling to ease the pulping process at the paper mill.

7. Can wrapping paper be recycled?

If the wrapping paper is all paper, then yes, please recycle it. If the wrapping paper has any foil on it or is made of foil, then it is not recyclable.

8. Can I recycle paper drink cups from restaurants or coffee vendors?

No, these cups have a plastic film or wax coating on the inside of the cup to prevent the liquid from degrading the cup as you drink. Additionally, the plastic lid that often accompanies the paper cup is also not recyclable curbside.

Reduce your waste by bringing your own, reusable mug with you next time you stop to get coffee.