The Different Types of Recyclables

the different types of recyclables

What are the different types of Recyclables?

The world is slowly moving towards more recyclable products, but we are not quite fully sustainable, yet. Luckily, everyone is partially responsible for our junk removal in Calgary, making understanding a communal effort. However, understanding the various restrictions and exceptions to the recycling program can be difficult at the best of times. 

Therefore, we have prepared a short list of the different types of recyclable materials and what to avoid. For the best results, though, consider checking out the full list at calgary.ca. They have convenient alphabetical groupings, and it is an easy reference if you are ever unsure about the recyclability of a product.

What Is and Isn't Recyclable?

Plastic Bags

These items are a fairly hot button topic in the world of recycling. Many people decry the need to force the removal of them, but recently, the Government of Canada introduced legislation to ban them from the country. For now, though, your best bet is to gather them together in a single bag and remember one simple rule: If it is stretchy, recycle it. Otherwise, if it tears or crinkles, toss it in the garbage.

Paper & Cardboard

Easily the most common and effective method of recycling comes from paper and cardboard. These materials are already made from pulp, and returning them to that base state is relatively easy. As a result, almost all paper and cardboard can be recycled. Just try to remove any plastic bits attached to them, like book jackets, envelope windows, cup lids, etc.

Plastic Container Packaging

There are many plastic containers that require recycling. From peanut butter and protein jars to laundry detergent and sprayable cleaning bottles, everyone is made for a specific use, and for most, we will only use them for a single purpose. 

Unfortunately, unlike paper, cardboard and plastic bags, it is harder to give a one-size-fits-all statement for containers. The best way to understand if a plastic container is recyclable is by looking for the numbers 1-7 in the recycling symbol’s middle. Typically, plastic containers for soaps and cleaners are recyclable but avoid putting the pumping mechanisms in with them.

Alternative Materials

Glass and tin are great options for recycling, but only lids larger than your palm should go with their original packaging. The smaller lids can jam the sorting machines and cause other problems. Finally, there is a small list of common items that people often believe to be recyclable, and they simply are not. This includes: 

  • Single-use coffee pods
  • foam takeout containers
  • plastic cutlery
  • Single-use food packets

Non-Recyclable or Large Items

Of course, the blue bin is just one way to recycle, and several materials do not belong in it. Just think of all the scrap metal, electronics, appliances, textiles, expired paints, cleaning materials and other items that simply do not belong in the city’s recycling or waste management system. Luckily, these are the perfect materials for The Junk Movement to take care of for you. When it comes to Calgary junk removal, just give us a call and let our friendly staff take care of the rest!

Trust the Junk Removal Movement to Help With Your Recyclables

The Junk Movement is committed to making junk removal in Calgary easy. Our mission is to optimize junk removal by putting the money we collected from recycling back into the community. Whether it’s for furniture or garbage removal in Calgary, our company is eco-conscious, sustainable, transparent and believes in good value. Our team is friendly and will be happy to assist you with all your junk and waste removal in Calgary. From residents to commercial clients, for a company that cares about your waste, trust The Junk Movement.

Save your time and the environment by calling the Junk Movement. Our junk removal service teams are fast, friendly and safe. Give us a call today at (587) 830-5865 for all of your junk removal services & recyclables.

The Junk Movement

The Junk Movement is a family-owned business in Calgary, built on the notion of revolutionizing the junk removal industry by providing community-orientated junk removal services that promote sustainability and community engagement.

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