Despite recycling being around for decades, many misconceptions persist about what can and cannot be recycled.
Allyson Chiu reports for The Washington Post.
In short:
- Pizza boxes, even if stained with grease, are recyclable according to the Environmental Protection Agency and should be placed in the recycling bin after removing food scraps and flattening.
- Not all paper is recyclable. Coated papers, such as glittery gift wrap and thermal paper receipts, often cannot be processed by paper mills due to their chemical coatings.
- Recyclables don't need to be perfectly clean. A basic rinse to remove major food particles is sufficient, and excessive washing wastes water and energy.
Key quote:
“Grease and cheese in an amount typically found on pizza boxes are not an issue for the recycling process.”
— American Forest and Paper Association
Why this matters:
Clarifying recycling myths helps reduce contamination in recycling streams, ensuring that more materials are properly recycled and reducing the environmental impact. Read more: How BPA and its evil cousins dodge meaningful regulation.
