Recycling
Recycling Right: Understanding why plastic film can’t go in the commingled recycling cart
Because of its thin, stretchy, clingy nature — which makes it useful for packaging purposes — plastic film is difficult to recycle without specialized equipment. Find out more here.
Read MoreRecycling Right: Understanding why glass can’t go in the commingled recycling cart
The good news? Glass jars and bottles used for food and beverages are 100% recyclable. The bad news? In order for any of that to work, glass has to be kept completely out of the curbside recycling stream.
Read MoreThe Dangers of Lithium Batteries: Hopper Fire
A fire broke out in the hopper of one of our garbage trucks near McAndrews Road and Crater Lake Avenue in Medford. Our driver responded quickly and followed training by moving to an open area where the load could be safely dumped and extinguished. We are grateful for his swift actions and extend sincere thanks to Medford Fire, Medford Police, and 911 for their prompt response. While the cause is still under investigation, batteries remain a leading source of fires in refuse vehicles and waste facilities. Please remember: batteries of any kind should never go in trash or recycling carts. To learn more about battery safety and proper disposal, please click here. Thank you for helping keep our community safe and protecting the environment for future generations.
Read MoreThe Hidden Dangers of Batteries in the Trash - And How to Dispose of Them Safely
Batteries may seem harmless, but when tossed into trash or recycling carts, they can overheat, spark, or catch fire under the pressure of collection and disposal equipment. These preventable incidents put workers, equipment, and facilities at risk. Safe disposal options, including battery drop‑off sites and hazardous waste collection events, help eliminate these dangers.
Read MoreHere’s how you can recycle three hard-to-recycle items
Did you know there are local recycling outlets for three common household items that can’t be mixed with other recyclables in our curbside recycling program?
Read MoreAre you recycling or wishcycling?
Everyone knows what recycling is. But what about “wishcycling?” Wishcycling is the act of putting something in your recycling cart without knowing for sure if it’s actually recyclable.
Read More10 easy ways to cut back on common household disposable items
With recycling markets in flux and the rules for what can and can’t be recycled changing, it’s easy to get discouraged about the amount of stuff you now need to throw away. The good news is that you can choose not to use some of that stuff in the first place — opting instead for reusable items and cutting down on the overall number of everyday items you need to dispose of.
Read MoreTackling the Top Three Contaminants
In order to find markets for commingled recyclable materials, it’s crucial that the materials be as contaminant-free as possible.
Read MoreUnderstanding Greenwashing: What it is and how to spot it
Have you ever seen a product in the store that says it’s recyclable but you can’t believe it is? Odds are it’s not.
Read MoreExploring the three Rs of waste management — Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
In order to keep as much material out of the landfill as possible, it’s important for each of us to do our part. One of the ways to put that plan into action is through the 3 Rs of waste management — Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.
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