Less waste can begin before the recycling bin.

A recycling bin is one part of dealing with waste. Choices made earlier can matter too.

Begin with what is already useful

The U.S. EPA’s resources encourage reducing waste and reusing materials alongside recycling. Consider whether an item needs replacing or whether it can continue to serve a useful purpose.

Check the local rules

Recycling systems vary. A material that is accepted in one place may need a different route in another. Use guidance from your local collection service before assuming where an item belongs.

Build a routine you can keep

Choose one manageable change and make the correct disposal information easy to find. A practical system is more useful than a collection of vague intentions.

Source

U.S. EPA: Reduce, reuse, recycle. Follow your local requirements for specific materials.