Frequently Asked Questions About Recycling

Q: What is mixed paper?

A: "Clean mixed paper" includes: computer and copier paper, hard back books, junk mail, newspapers, magazines, and ‘slick’ printed material. Staples, tape and the occasional paperclip are OK. It does not include: paper contaminated by food, metal or plastic bound material, corrugated cardboard, food containers (i.e. pizza boxes), waxed paper, or general trash.

Q: Can I recycle pizza boxes?

A: Unfortunately, recycling material purchasers don't accept pizza boxes or any other cardboard with food contamination. However, rinsed plastic plates and containers with recycling symbols on the bottom are accepted.

Q: When is recycling picked up?

A: Regular recycling is collected on Tuesday and Thursday mornings.

Q: What if the recycling bin in my dorm is full?

A: If a public bin is full, call x8490 (Facilities Management) for a pickup.

Q: Why no caps on the bottles?
A: The bottles are compressed in a baling machine. When capped bottles are bailed, pressure builds up in the bottles and the tops fly off and create safety hazards for the recycling center employees. Its easier and safer when the caps are removed.
 

Q: Do I have to remove labels from cans and bottles?
A: No.
 

Q: Why do we have to empty and rinse out cans and bottles? It's a pain!
A: Dirty cans and bottles attract bugs, get stinky and add extra weight.
 

Q: I have seen recycling being put into a trash truck, why?
A: This happens when people contaminate recyclables with trash. Even some recyclable material is put into a recycling bin, the contents must match the labeling of the bin. Trash in this case can be other recyclables. Buyers will refuse to accept loads of contaminated recyclables.