Recycle Right®

From the Three Basic Rules to in-depth guides and resources, find everything you need to reycle the right way, every day.

Let's Recycle Better, Together

Every time you recycle, you're giving that item a second life to serve a new purpose and save resources. Now more than ever, it’s important that only the right items, free from contamination, go into your recycling bin.

Recycling 101

Recycling Resources

Three Basic Rules

Knowing these rules and putting them into practice will help you recycle more efficiently. And it will help to ensure everything that makes it into your bin finds a second life.

Rule 1

Recycle bottles, cans, cups, tubs, paper and cardboard*

Banana peel and orange slice inside red hexagon.

Rule 2

Keep food and liquid out of your recycling

Rule 3

No loose plastic bags and no bagged recyclables

*Recyclable items vary by location. Check local programs to find out what is recyclable in your area.

Together for Tomorrow: WM + Repreve

Learn how we work together with Repreve for a sustainable tomorrow.

Become a Recycling Expert

Whether you’re at home or at work, we’ve got the tools to set you up for recycling success.

STEP 1

Grab Two Containers

Whether you use new containers, repurposed boxes or reusable bags, set your recycling container next to the trash bin — this works for recycling in several rooms in your home or at work.

STEP 2

Label Both Containers

Download and print Recycling and Trash labels in the Recycling Resources section and place them on each container to ensure the right items go into the right bins.

STEP 3

Start Recycling

Remember, recycling right is as easy as recycling clean bottles, cans, paper and cardboard. Download Recycle Right posters from the Recycling Resources section and put on your refrigerator or place them by the recycling bins at home and work.

STEP 4

Plastic Bags: Recycling's Nemesis

Plastic bags can shut down an entire recycling plant, so don’t toss loose plastic bags into your curbside recycling bin and never bag your recyclables. Empty loose recyclable items directly into the bin.

STEP 5

Better Together

Recycling is easy and convenient — toss your clean and dry bottles, cans, paper and cardboard together in your recycling container. Empty smaller bins used throughout your home or business into your large recycling bin — and remember to free your recyclables — no plastic bags.

STEP 6

Keep It Up

The easiest way to be an avid recycler is to make a commitment to recycle right. Once you get into that groove, you’ll find recycling seamlessly integrates into your everyday life. Then go and share your passion for recycling with family and friends, and make purchase choices based on recyclability.

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Our Position on Plastic

WM has been leading the charge to establish new domestic markets for responsible recycling and beneficial use of these materials.

See Our Position on Plastic