Christmas is around the corner and all the packaging and wrapping paper that accumulates at this time of year it seems to be a good time to refresh ourselves on the recycling protocol that we have in the coop. I interviewed Tim Pelzer on the proper way to recycle in our building. Here are some reminders on how to recycle properly this Christmas season.
1. Are there common mistakes that people make when recycling in the coop?
Yes, people do not sort their plastic properly. Every plastic container is numbered — 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. They only accept 1,2,4 and 5 for recycling. The other numbers — 3,6 and 7 — go in the garbage. They are composed of even more dangerous petrochemicals
that can harm human health. Also, people should throw out their laminated paper milk cartons which are not accepted for recycling. Also, newsprint and mixed paper go in different bins. Finally, please do not recycle paper coated with food, such as pizza or cake boxes. Remove the parts caked with food. WE DO NOT ACCEPT STYROFOAM FOR RECYCLING. PLEASE THROW IT IN THE GARBAGE.
2. Can most of the plastic packaging that is on toys and electronics be recycled in the “containers” bin?
No it cannot. It should go in the garbage unless you find 1,2,4 or 5 on the plastic toy or packaging. Then you can recycle it.
3. I’ve noticed that there has been a “no more plastic” sign on the soft plastics for the last couple of months – what is the status with that- will we be able to recycle soft plastics in the coop in
the future?
At the moment we are not accepting soft plastic for recycling. Because of the recession and the collapse in oil prices, companies have stopped buying soft plastic for recycling. When the economy recovers, we will attempt to recycle soft plastic again. In the
meantime, the best thing everyone can do is reduce the number of plastic bags you use. For instance, try using cloth bags, or reuse plastic bags you already have. Cover food containers with plates
instead of plastic wrap.
4. Is there anything you want members to be aware of when recycling during the holidays?
Not especially. Members do a fairly good job at recycling their waste.
Another good resource about recycling during the holidays is the Recycling Council of BC’s website (www.rcbc.bc.ca). They encourage people to use reusable wrapping such as cloth bags. If you are using wrapping paper they suggest staying away from paper with a sheen on it as these types of paper cannot be recycled.
I am very glad that we have such a great place to recycle in our building. Thanks very much to the recycling committee for maintaining the recycling area for the coop. Happy Holidays and remember to recycle responsibly!
L.