Why is it important to only put items that can be recycled in the recycling bin?

Putting items in the recycling bin that can’t be recycled can contaminate the recycling stream. After these unrecyclable items arrive at recycling centers, they can cause costly damage to the equipment. Additionally, after arriving at recycling centers, they must be sorted out and then sent to landfills, which raises costs for the facility. That is why it is important to check the Accepted Items list before you go to the solid waste facility to place items into the bin. 

For more information, view the Accepted Items page.

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1. What is recycling?
2. What can I recycle?
3. Where can I recycle?
4. What is single stream recycling?
5. Why is it important to only put items that can be recycled in the recycling bin?