A new program aims to reduce contaminants in Baltimore’s recycling stream by encouraging residents to put proper items into their collection bins.
As part of the Department of Public Works’ new OOPS Tag Recycling Initiative, DPW workers will place tags on recycling bins that contain incorrect or non-recyclable items. The tags clearly identify the contamination issue and offer guidance on how to fix it. Residents will be asked to remove the incorrect items before the next scheduled collection or pick-up day.
Confusion about what can and cannot be recycled has led to increased contamination in the city’s recycling stream. When non-recyclable things or items with food on them are put into recycling bins, they can contaminate entire truckloads of materials, making them unusable. This increases costs and reduces effectiveness of the city’s recycling program.
“Baltimore is committed to leading by example in recycling and environmental sustainability,” DPW director Matthew Garbark said in a statement. “The OOPS Tag Recycling Initiative strengthens our recycling program, reduces contamination, and helps ensure City resources are used effectively. By working together, residents can make Baltimore a cleaner, more sustainable City for generations to come.”
Common items that are mistakenly placed in the recycling bins include plastic bags, packaging film, batteries, tangling items (like hoses or wires), textiles, clothing, and construction or demolition debris. Food residue on containers is also a major source of contamination. When recyclables are not properly cleaned, things like paper and cardboard can be ruined and thrown out instead of reused and recycled.
Acceptable curbside recycling items include clean paper and cardboard, metal cans, plastic bottles and containers, and glass bottles and jars. All items should be empty, clean, and dry before being put into the blue recycling bin.
If residents would like to recycle something that is not accepted by curbside recycling, they can check out their closest Residential Recycling Center. DPW accepts a variety of things at these centers, like mattresses, textiles, electronics, food scraps, and more. To make sure an item is recyclable, visit DPW’s Recycle Right Tool.
