COMMON RECYCLING MYTHS

All Types of glass bottles and jars are recyclable

Reality: The acceptance of glass in recycling programs varies by jurisdiction. Glass recycling collection varies in communities across the U.S. Some communities recycle glass with all other recyclables; some collect glass separately at the curb in its own container, and some cities have specific recy- cling drop-off locations for glass. Some states, like CA, CT, OR, IA, MI, ME, VT, MA and NY, have 'bottle bill' laws that allow for a per-bottle deposit when bottles are brought to return centers or retailers for recycling. Please refer to your community's recycling guidelines for local program information.

Containers must be squeaky clean in order to be recycled

Reality: Containers should be clean, but don't have to be spotless. While all bottles, cans and containers should be clean, dry and free of most food waste before you place them in your recycling container, they don't need to be spotless. The goal is to make sure they are clean enough to avoid contaminating other materials, like paper, or your un-lined kitchen recycling bin. Try using a spatula to scrape cans and jars, and putting recyclables in your sink among the dishes you are rinsing to share that same water to rinse and remove residue.