Why is wish cycling a problem?
Wish-cycling is when we put items into the recycling bin without knowing for sure if they’re recyclable. It comes from a well-meaning place - the hope that anything can be reused if we just give it a chance. Unfortunately, items that aren’t accepted in standard recycling can contaminate loads, jam machinery, and waste time and resources at the sorting facility. When non-recyclable items end up in the recycling stream, they can contaminate the entire batch. This means more work for recycling facilities and sometimes, entire loads of recyclables get sent to the landfill instead.
Also, don’t be fooled by the 'recycling' triangle and number on some plastic containers; rather confusingly, it doesn’t necessarily mean the item can be recycled – just what type of plastic it’s made of.Here are a few items we often mistakenly recycle:
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Plastic bags: These can tangle up machinery at recycling plants.
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Greasy pizza boxes: The grease contaminates the paper recycling process.
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Coffee cups: Many have a plastic lining that isn’t recyclable.
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Some types of glass: Not all glass is created equal; some types can’t be recycled with others.
How to avoid wish cycling
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Know your local guidelines: Recycling rules can vary by location. You can check the Recycle Right website to know what can and can’t be recycled in your area, depending on the type of bins system used where you live.
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Clean and dry: Make sure your recyclables are clean and dry - they don't have to be 'dishwasher clean' but rinse out containers and let them dry before tossing them in the recycling bin.
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Get to know the rules: Take a little time to learn about common recycling myths and facts. The more you know, the easier it is to get it right.
Wish cycling is well-intentioned problem. By understanding what can and can’t be recycled and following a few simple tips, we can all help make recycling more effective.
