One of the most important—and easiest—practices that will lead us toward a greener New York is recycling. We want to help you reach your zero waste goals and those of the broader community through user-friendly disposal and ongoing waste diversion education.

Recycling guidelines may change based on location, so understanding general standards is key. These tips will get you started on the right path:

• Paper: Paper such as junk mail, newspaper, magazines, envelopes, school paper, and similar materials can be recycled. Paper products that cannot be recycled include soft paper (e.g., tissues, paper towels, napkins, etc.) and paper with plastic coating (e.g., candy wrappers).
• Cardboard: Boxes and other types of cardboard can be recycled if they’re flattened down. Paper cartons such as milk cartons can be recycled, but they should be collected with cans and bottles.
• Metals: All aluminum and tin cans (e.g., soup, soda, etc.) are recyclable as long as they don’t contain anything hazardous such as insect repellents. It’s best to wipe these down to remove any food residue before recycling them.

• Glass: Bottles are acceptable regardless of their color.
• Food/liquids: Organics are composted and reused rather than dumped and can be recycled into various soil amendments.
• Batteries and electronics: Car and regular household batteries can be recycled and must be handled separately from regular waste. Classic Recycling offers an e-waste service, where your electronics will be securely disposed of.
• Clothing and textiles: Clothing and other textiles should not be included in a recycling bin. We instead encourage you to donate them to a charity or secondhand organization that accepts these items. We can help set you up.
• Plastics: All plastics can be recycled or reused.
• Items that CANNOT be recycled: Styrofoam, wire hangers, ceramics, grease-filled pizza boxes, broken glass, straws, diapers, and bubble wrap are all examples of non-recyclable materials.