Recycling FAQs
Where are the rules about what I can put in my recycling can?
Elgin has a guide that gives a summary of what’s acceptable: keep it to bottles, cans, and paper.
What if I still have questions? What about deli containers or packaging from my Amazon delivery that has the recycling triangles on it?
Waste Management (WM) has an “in-depth guide” here.
What about other items like building materials or clothes?
There are a number of programs you can access to dispose of/recycle those items. There’s a handy list here, but you should also check out Simple Recycling, which is a program the Elgin Sustainability Commission has supported and provides at-your-door pickup service for textiles and small household goods. You can learn more and schedule a pickup ASAP!
Can’t I put plastic bags in my recycling bin?
What about plastic film? What can I do with that?
There are places that specialize in plastic film recycling. This one even has a nice guide for whether or not something IS recyclable. Isn’t that helpful?
What if I have extra stuff to recycle and it won’t fit in my bin?
You can take it to a drop-off location, there are several and some take things like electronics, but there are rules for each so read the fine print.
This all seems like an awful system. Isn’t there a better way?
Yeah, we’re not doing great with recycling, especially plastics. But, if you stay involved and get engaged, you can do something about it, like advocating for better recycling services in our city.