The most common recycling question of all...

Public schools across Edmonton start recycling, this fall. Just like at home.

One of our most frequent questions is pizza boxes.
Well, here's the answer... and answers to more common questions about recycling. This will help anyone use a Blue Bag or Blue Bin. Keep the message positive and keep folks recycling!

Are pizza boxes recyclable?

Yes. If your pizza box has a few spots of grease, it’s no problem. But please put the sheet that the pizza sits on in the garbage.

Are chip bags and candy wrappers recyclable?

No. They should be put in the garbage.

Are all plastic containers recyclable?

Like plastic bags, there are many types of plastic containers. Some are recyclable and some are not. As long as they are clean, dry, larger than the palm of your hand and smaller than a basketball, then they are OK to go in the recycling bin. They will be sorted out at the recycling plant. The ones that do not get recycled will be converted to methanol or ethanol so there is no waste.

Are disposable cups recyclable?

Some are, but because there is such a wide variety it’s difficult to communicate to all residents which ones are and which ones aren’t. To simplify matters we ask that all of them be put in the garbage. They will be converted into compost or ethanol.

Isn’t shredded paper recyclable?

Technically, shredded paper is recyclable. However, because it’s fluffy like confetti it jams moving parts at the recycling plant and causes plant shutdowns. Please put it in the garbage. It will be composted.

What do I do with caps and lids?

Put caps and lids in the garbage.

Do I need to remove labels?

No. Labels are OK on all containers.

Isn’t Styrofoam recyclable?

Yes, Styrofoam is recyclable but due to the extreme lightness for its volume it’s difficult to recycle economically. The good news is that it won’t be wasted if it’s put in the garbage in Edmonton. Together with other non-recyclable or non-compostable waste, it will be converted
into methanol or ethanol.

Are zip lock bags and similar plastic sandwich bags recyclable?

There are almost countless different types of plastic bags. Some are recyclable and some are not. You can put any plastic bag into your recycling bin as long as it is clean and dry. They will be sorted out at the recycling plant. The ones that do not get recycled will be converted to methanol or ethanol so there is no waste.

How clean do containers need to be?

Well rinsed is sufficient. A small amount of residue is OK but anything more than that is unacceptable. If it’s difficult to get a certain container clean – peanut butter can be challenging – it’s alright to put it into the garbage. It will be converted into methanol or ethanol.

For More Info

Phone  311

Visit    edmonton.ca/recycling