Three Reasons Why it is Crucial to Clean Recyclables
People in West Virginia have been recycling for a long time. Many of us started old school. However, over time, things have changed. Nowadays, an essential concern in recycling is knowing if you have to clean recyclable materials before you toss them in the bin. Contaminants can ruin specific recycling processes. With that in mind, here is the main reason why it is critical to remove impurities from recyclable materials.
Prevent Bad Odors
Removing the impurities from recyclable items can help prevent the development of nasty odors. As food residue sits inside used containers, it rots, and over several days, the rotting food particles will develop mold that produces a strong and unpleasant odor. Rinsing out containers means the material can sit between pick-up days without developing a funky smell.
Prevent Pests
Lingering food particles that left inside bottles and other contains can attract rodents, ants, flies, and other insects. Also, bees and other insects that sting can be carried inside empty bottles and containers to the recycling center, stinging facility workers. Rinsing out recyclables will help to keep unwanted pests away from your containers and your house.
Help Protect the Environment
Materials such as chip bags, candy wrappers, and greasy or wet food containers get mixed in and contaminate the bales of paper and plastics, so the materials cannot be reliably processed. Not rinsing out some items, like glass jars with sticky food particles, will make them unrecyclable and will end up in a landfill. So, take the extra few seconds to give it a quick scrub and protect the environment.
If you have made recycling a habit, you are already helping to make the world a greener place, but make sure to be part of the solution and recycle wisely.
Should you need recycling pick up services, contact Sunrise Sanitation.
