Americans recycle only 28% of the products they discard, in spite of the fact that 80% of them are recyclable. If recent weather phenomenon and environmental changes have inspired you to be more eco-friendly, work with your local waste management facility to arrange for recycling pick-up, along with your regular garbage services. The following looks at what items you should make sure don’t end up in the regular trash.

3 Products to Keep Out of Landfills

1. Paper

Paper is the most thrown away material, but Americans do recycle over 66% of used paper products. However, those that are heavily colored or are glossy, like gift wrap, may be harder to reprocess. Any products containing food, such as paper plates or pizza boxes, are not recyclable either. Therefore, it’s best for the environment to use reusable, washable plates.

2. Plastics

Plastics adhere to the Resin Identification Code (RIC) system, which determines if they are recyclable or not. Plastics are stamped with a number inside a triangle to give it its designation. Items stamped with the three, four, and seven codes, including Styrofoam and PVC containers, can only be treated in a few select waste management facilities. However, the majority can be placed in a regular recycling bin.

3. Glass & Metal

Most glass and metal products are recyclable as long as they’re cleaned out first. Beverage cans have the highest turnaround rate of recyclable materials. Around 65% is recycled and it only takes 90 days to return to the shelf. Additionally, they require 95% less energy to recycle aluminum than to create it from scratch. Remove the lids from all glass products, as well as the paper labels, before sending them for recycling.

Interested in joining a recycling program? Turn to the waste management professionals at Industrial Services of Lincoln, NE. Serving the community for over 100 years, they offer some of the most comprehensive recycling services in the country. They accept all plastic containers labeled #1 thru #7, all paper products, and lids do not have to be removed from metal products. Visit them online to learn more about these offerings. Call (402) 267-3581 to set up waste management service today.