The Gloucester County Improvement Authority reminds residents of the importance and benefits of recycling.
In 1987, the Mandatory Source Separation and Recycling Act requires all residents, schools, businesses and government agencies in the state of New Jersey to separate and recycle certain materials from the regular trash in order to reduce the amount of garbage that requires disposal. These items include newspaper, glass bottles and jars, aluminum cans, bi-metal cans and plastic bottles, jars and jugs.
“Recycling reduces the amount of waste sent to our landfills, conserves our natural resources and reduces pollution,” stated Freeholder Director Damminger. “We noticed some residents may not be sorting their recyclables correctly or may be unaware of what can actually be recycled.”
Director Damminger said the “Dirty Dozen” is Gloucester County’s list of items that should never be in your recycling container. These items include:
1. Plastic bags
2. Materials in plastic bags
3. Shredded paper
4. Scrap Metal
5. Hazardous waste
6. Diapers or bio-hazardous waste
7. Non-recyclable plastics
8. Cups
9. Plastic caps or lids
10. Liquids in recyclable containers
11. Ceramics or non-recyclable glass
12. Frozen food containers
“One dirty recyclable could contaminate the contents of an entire recycling truck so it’s important to take the time to sort and check with your town for recycling guidelines and tips,” added Director Damminger. “When in doubt, throw it out!”
The Gloucester County Improvement Authority offers residents resources and information on what items can be recycled and what items need to be disposed of separately.
For additional info
rmation or questions call (856) 478-6045 or visit www.gcianj.com.
