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Arlington, VA – In an effort to help consumers recycle properly, the National Waste and Recycling Association (NWRA), along with the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA), the Northeast Recycling Council (NERC), and the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI), produced the Think Twice poster.

“The economics of recycling are changing. As our members look to expand markets for their recyclables, it is important consumers understand what items can be recycled and who to contact if they have questions. Our members are educating their customers to improve recycling habits. This poster supports those efforts,” said NWRA President and CEO Darrell Smith.

“Our experiences have shown that education plays a vital role in decreasing contamination and increasing the quality of the recycling stream,” said Robin Wiener, president of the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries. “The recycling industry is working together to help people better understand common items not accepted in curbside recycling bins. While the rules for residential recycling vary from community to community there are several common items that cannot be recycled in curbside programs regardless of location. Recycling works and we all have an important part to play.”

Lynn Rubenstein, Executive Director of the Northeast Recycling Council (NERC) said, “recycling what should be recycled ‘where’ it is best recycled is important for the safety of the recycling industry and those that work in it.  Electronics, batteries, and plastic bags should all be recycled, but not in residential recycling programs.  Sharps and needles need special handling to protect workers and the public, and food and liquids should be recycled. Of course, diapers need to go in the trash.  Following these important basics will improve the value of recyclables as well as make it a safe workplace.

The poster is available for download here.

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