How to Recycle Plastic Containers in New York City

Milk jugs and water bottles can be recycled in New York City.

Recycling helps keep consumer waste out of landfills and allows manufacturers to create brand-new products from previously used materials. The New York City recycling program accepts many types of waste, including paper, metal and plastic. Today's plastics are made with a combination of different materials, though, so not all of them can be recycled. For this reason, the only plastic containers you are able to recycle in New York City are plastic jugs and bottles.

Things You'll Need

• Recycling bin or clear bag marked "Bottles and Cans"

Instructions

1. Pour out the contents of the plastic jug or bottle.

2. Rinse the container thoroughly, inside and out, under running water.

3. Place the lid or cap of the plastic container in the garbage bin. Do not put lids or caps in the recycling bin.

4. Put the clean, empty plastic jugs or bottles in a recycling bin marked "Bottles and Cans" or marked with a blue recycling decal. You may also use a clear plastic bag if you do not have a bin.

5. Place the recycling bin or bag outside on the curb or wherever the Department of Sanitation regularly picks up your recyclables. The Department of Sanitation will remove the contents for recycling on the pick-up day scheduled for your area.

References

• NYC: What to Recycle with Sanitation
• NYC: What Plastics to Recycle in NYC

Resources

• The City of New York Department of Sanitation: Collection Schedule