Discard these common recycling myths

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.