How to Recycle Properly: A Comprehensive Guide from Your Local Waste Management Company

At Benji, your trusted waste management service provider, we are committed to helping communities reduce landfill waste, improve recycling practices, and support a cleaner, more sustainable environment.

Whether you're a homeowner, business owner, or municipal leader, proper recycling is essential for conserving natural resources, reducing emissions, and improving the efficiency of our recycling system.

This complete recycling guide will help you understand how to recycle properly, avoid recycling contamination, and participate in sustainable waste management. It includes actionable recycling tips at home, a deep dive into plastics #1 and #2, and instructions for managing special waste items like electronics and batteries.

What You Can Recycle in Curbside Recycling Programs

Most residential recycling services accept the following recyclable materials:

Accepted Recyclable Materials

• Paper products – Office paper, newspapers, junk mail, and clean flattened cardboard

• Metal cans – Clean aluminium soda cans and steel food cans

• Glass containers – Clean bottles and jars (verify with your local council’s recycling guidelines)

• Plastic containers – Especially plastics #1 and #2 

  
  

Correctly sorting your household recycling bin significantly improves the recycling system efficiency and reduces contamination.

Understanding Plastics #1 and #2

Plastic recycling is complex due to the many types of plastic. Most curbside recycling programs focus on recyclable plastics identified by the resin identification code printed on containers.

Plastic #1 (PET or PETE)

• Common uses: Water and soda bottles, food packaging

• Also known as: PET recycling

• Recycling PET containers creates new bottles, clothing fibers, and packaging

• Tips: Rinse, remove caps (if required), and ensure bottles are dry

  
  

Plastic #2 (HDPE)

• Common uses: Milk jugs, detergent bottles, shampoo containers

• Also known as: HDPE recycling

• Recycling HDPE containers supports the creation of pipes, lumber, and new containers

• Tips: Clean thoroughly and allow to dry

  
  

These are the most commonly accepted plastics in curbside recycling and should be prioritized when sorting.

Avoid non-recyclable plastics like #3 (PVC), #4 (LDPE), #5 (PP), #6 (PS), and #7 (Other).

Recycling Best Practices

Follow these recycling best practices to maximize impact:

1. Clean, Empty, and Dry your containers

2. Do not bag recyclables, place in council issue wheelie bins

3. Flatten cardboard to save space

4. Separate non-recyclable materials like foam, wrappers, and food residue

   
   

Practicing these habits ensures eco-friendly habits that contribute to a green community and promote environmental responsibility.

Special Waste: Electronics, Batteries & Hazardous Items

Certain materials require responsible recycling at recycling drop-off locations:

• Electronics recycling (laptops, phones, tablets)

• E-waste recycling programs for larger devices

• Battery disposal, including lithium battery disposal

• Light bulb recycling for CFL and LED bulbs

• Paints, chemicals, and more via hazardous waste collection

Check drop-off recycling centres for further guidance on disposal

Why Recycling Properly Matters

Recycling the right way helps:

• Conserve natural resources

• Support a cleaner environment

• Reduce energy and processing costs

• Build a stronger recycling economy

• Promote sustainable living and sustainability practices

  
  

Following this recycling guide, it benefits your home, your city, and the planet.

For expert advice on waste management contact us today.

Enquire Now