Recycling is one of the most effective ways to help the environment, conserve resources, and reduce waste. However, not everything can be tossed into a recycling bin.

Many people unknowingly place items in recycling bins that are banned in New York State. These items can cause serious problems in recycling facilities, leading to machinery damage, contamination, and safety hazards. To avoid these issues, here are ten items you should never place in your recycling bin in New York State:

Plastic Bags and Film Plastics

Plastic bags and film plastics, such as grocery bags, bread bags, and bubble wrap, can jam recycling equipment. These materials should not go into your regular recycling bin. Instead, most grocery stores have designated collection bins for plastic bags and film plastics. Always check for local drop-off locations to ensure proper disposal.

Foam Products (Styrofoam)

Styrofoam items, including foam coffee cups, meat trays, egg cartons, and takeout containers, are not recyclable in most municipal programs. These materials break apart easily and contaminate other recyclables. Instead, they should be placed in the trash or taken to specialized recycling programs where available.

Hazardous Chemicals

Household chemicals such as oil-based paints, paint thinners, cleaning products, pesticides, and motor oil should never go into a recycling bin. These substances are toxic and can pose serious health and environmental risks. Instead, dispose of hazardous waste through designated collection sites or hazardous waste disposal events organized by local authorities.

Mercury-Containing Products

Items like fluorescent bulbs, compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), thermostats, and thermometers contain mercury, a toxic heavy metal. These items should be disposed of at hazardous waste collection sites or participating retailers that accept them for safe disposal.

Used Tires

Tires are banned from curbside recycling programs due to their size and material composition. However, they can be recycled through auto shops, tire retailers, or municipal waste collection sites that accept old tires. Some tire dealers may charge a small disposal fee.

Medical Waste

Medical waste, including syringes, needles, and unused prescription medications, should never be placed in a recycling bin. These items can pose serious health hazards to waste management workers. Instead, use designated disposal programs, such as pharmacy take-back programs or sharps disposal containers.

Electronics (E-Waste)

Old televisions, computers, cell phones, and other electronic devices should not be placed in recycling bins. These items contain valuable materials like copper and rare metals, but they also contain hazardous components. Instead, take them to e-waste recycling centers or electronics retailers that offer take-back programs.

Batteries

Batteries, both single-use and rechargeable, contain chemicals that can be harmful if improperly disposed of. Some retailers and designated drop-off locations accept old batteries for recycling. Proper disposal prevents environmental contamination and health risks.

Light Bulbs

Standard incandescent bulbs, halogen bulbs, and fluorescent bulbs should not be mixed with recyclable glass. Fluorescent bulbs contain small amounts of mercury, making them hazardous. Many hardware stores and waste management facilities accept these bulbs for proper recycling.

Clothing and Textiles

Old clothes, shoes, and textiles should not be placed in recycling bins. Instead, consider donating usable clothing to charities or taking damaged textiles to textile recycling programs. Many communities have clothing donation bins for repurposing or recycling fabric materials.

Why Proper Recycling Matters

Recycling contamination is a growing problem in New York State. When non-recyclable materials are placed in recycling bins, they can damage recycling equipment, increase processing costs, and reduce the effectiveness of recycling programs. Understanding what can and cannot be recycled helps protect the environment, conserves resources, and ensures that recyclable materials are processed correctly.

To stay informed about proper recycling practices, always check with your local waste management department or visit the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) website for updated guidelines.

Proper waste disposal is essential for environmental sustainability. By keeping these ten items out of your recycling bin, you contribute to a more efficient and safe recycling system in New York State. When in doubt, check your local guidelines or use designated collection programs to dispose of hazardous or non-recyclable items properly.