Posted on March 26, 2021
![Recycling Guidelines]()
We all play an integral role when it comes to keeping the recycling program alive and robust in Central Iowa. As the agency leading the charge in terms of ‘Where It Should Go,’ Metro Waste Authority is committed to keeping the program not only going, but growing! That’s why, in November 2021, we will be opening the doors to our very own Material Recovery Facility. Starting in November, your recyclables will go to this new facility to be sorted and sold to manufacturers who will make them into to new and exciting things.
That’s where you come in...
As the famous Iowa phrase goes, if we build it, they will come. While we can supply the new facility with enhanced optical sorting and a state-of-the-art education center, we need your help making sure the RIGHT material makes it there, which all starts with your recycling choices at home!
Toss the right things in your Curb It! cart
You’ve heard us say it before, but when it comes to recycling, we want you to stick with the basics. This includes:
- Plastics with twist-off lids
- Juice cartons
- Junk mail
- Newspaper
- Cardboard
- Aluminum & tin cans
It’s easy to second guess yourself when you’re deciding what types of things belong in your Curb It! cart. A good rule of thumb, when in doubt – throw it out.
Let’s keep the wrong things out
While we know your intentions may be good, when items are wishfully tossed into your cart, without sticking to the guidelines, it can turn the whole batch to trash. It’s like throwing a red sock in with a load of whites, you risk turning the whole load pink!
Items we’ve found frequently discarded among wishful recyclers include...
- Plastic bags
- Coffee cups
- Pizza boxes
- Hazardous waste
- Styrofoam
- Yard waste
We want everyone to become a recycling rock star. So, next time you see a pizza box in your friends recycling, or an aluminum pop can in their garbage, spread the word so we can all become recycling experts.
If you are wondering if an item is recyclable, check out our Recycling Guide or give us a call at 515.244.0021.