1 week Ago
Tossing takeout containers into the recycling bin feels like the right move, but looks can be deceiving. A lot of food packaging is designed to be disposable, not recyclable, and some of the most common containers are actually doing more harm than good once they hit the bin. It's not just about the material.
It's about the mess. That greasy pad thai box or half-empty soup container might seem harmless, but food residue can ruin entire batches of recyclables. Even something as basic as a pizza box can be problematic if it's soaked with oil.
Recycling isn't just about doing something. You want to make sure you're doing it right. And that means knowing which takeout items to keep out of the blue bin altogether.
Here's what to skip if you want your recycling routine to actually make an impact. Read more: Microwave-Free Zone: Expert Cooking Hacks for Leftovers If you're wondering whether black containers, aluminum rounds, paper clamshells and Chinese food boxes are recyclable, you're not alone. To get the hard truth on takeout container recycling rules and limitations, I spoke with Jeremy Walters.
A passionate environmentalist, Walters is the sustainability ambassador for the second-largest recycling collector in the US, Republic Services. He shared some important tips to remember and common mistakes to avoid when recycling takeout boxes and containers at home. Here's what you need to know to get the most mileage out of your blue bin.
How to properly recycle takeout containers Styrofoam containers are a scorch on the environment. If you feel comfortable asking your local takeout spot to stop using them, you probably should. Getty Images 1.
Do some recycling research: The most important thing you can do to streamline the process is to find out which containers can and can't be recycled in your specific area. This will likely vary depending on where you live, so you'll need to check with your local sanitation department, often via its website. 2.
Don't assume...
David Watsky.
