Recycling Tips

Here is a list of things that you can recycle.

• Cartons
• Aluminum and metal cans
• Corrugated cardboard and paper bags (make sure they are flattened)
• #1 and #2 Plastic bottles and jugs* (caps removed)
• Greeting cards and junk mail
• Cardboard beverage containers
• Glass bottles and jars
• File folders
• Office paper
• Loose metal jar lids and steel bottle caps
• Paper towel rolls
• Paperback books
• Phonebooks
• Newspapers
• Magazines
• Brochures and inserts
• Paper boxes

Here’s what you can’t recycle (find ways to reduce your use of them to help with zero waste)

• Scrap metal
• Plastic Bags
• Plastic lids and caps
• Plastic 6-pack holders
• Needles and Syringes
• Plastic Microwave trays
• Frozen food, ice cream or frozen juice containers
• Window panes, mirrors, ceramics and Pyrex dishware
• Plastics other than listed above
• Paint
• Pesticides
• Oil
• Cleansers
• Stickers
• Address label sheet waste
• Waxed paper or waxed cardboard
• Styrofoam or paper to-go containers
• Organic material and food waste (compost)
• Electronic waste – batteries, cell phones, computers etc.

Our trash removal service professionals know that ice cream containers are often found on “do not recycle” lists. That tends to leave a lot of people wondering what to do with those containers. So in light of that fact, we wanted to share our tips for repurposing them:

Plastic Birdhouses

Did you know that plastic ice cream containers can be converted into birdhouses?

It’s true. Simply punch a small hole into the bottom of the container and add a wire hanger. Then cut a bird-size opening into the side of the container and outfit it with a wooden dowel or stick. 

When you’re finished, seal any gaps around the wire hanger and stick. After the glue dries, add dryer lint to the inside of the container before hanging it up onto your favorite tree limb. That way, the birds will have a bit of nesting material readily available.

Road Trip Supplies

For all of you moms and dads out there, why not convert your family’s plastic ice cream containers into road trip kits?

Fill each one with special toys, art supplies and other diversions that the kids can only use in the car. Then bring at least one container with you on long road trips.

Sand or Snow Building Blocks

While we are on the topic of kiddos, our trash removal service pros have also seen the plastic ice cream containers used as sand castle and igloo building devices.

Pack them with wet snow or sand and viola!, your amateur architects will have their own supply of building blocks.

Those are just three ice cream container recycling ideas to help get you started.

To uncover more tips and ask about trash removal services in Waco, TX, please contact us. We offer zero landfill options to commercial and residential consumers alike.

To reach our trash removal specialists, please call 254-400-2930.

Did you know that the EPA estimates that 40 percent of all waste is generated in the workplace? This is why a company-recycling programs is such a big deal.

Do you have empty recycling bins, but your trashcans are over flowing?
You can use these tips to make your company-recycling program really work.

Become a recycling leader

If no one is taking charge of the program, step up, let it be you. If you care about the environment this is a great way to hone your leadership skills while also doing something good for the planet.

You should first conduct an assessment. Go around to high-traffic areas – the kitchen or break room, the copier area, the entrance to the office – and make sure recycling bins that people can find your bins.  Check to see if they are being used at all.  Make it easy for everyone to get to them.

Let people know exactly what can be put in each bin.  Put that list where it is visible to all.

Plan an event 

Now that you have the basics covered – paper, aluminum cans and glass bottles, there are plenty of other materials that can be recycled – electronics, toner and old office equipment. 

Organize a quarterly event to collect these items. Make it fun to find them around the office and have them bring these items from home from home.
Make sure that everyone knows in advance when this event is taking place so they will be able to gather the materials, instead of throwing them away.

Educate the staff 

How do you keep everyone motivated to continue? Educate the staff on why recycling matters. Put an article or a quick tip in your company newsletter.

Keep the staff informed about the impact of their contributions. Send e-mails or office memos thanking them for recycling. Let them know how many pounds of waste they kept out of the landfill each month. (Your recycling company can help provide statistics.)

Build enthusiasm  

Consider creating having a contest between departments to see who can generate the least amount of trash. Find innovative ways to track progress and give rewards those who participate. Make sure to publicize the winners so others around the company can see the success.

If your company doesn’t yet have a recycling program, contact us today to discuss starting one. A minimal amount of effort and investment can have a significant impact on your company and the environment.

Step up to the challenge, be a leader. It is a great way to make a name for yourself as someone who takes initiative and is willing to work for what’s right.

Get started today!