Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we hear most often about recycling paper, cardboard and household materials.
What is the ideal product for fibre recycling?
The ideal product for collection and recycling is clean corrugated cardboard, boxboard or paper.
“Clean” does not mean spotless — it means free of organic waste, chemical contamination, and plastic or Styrofoam. Plastics do not mix with paper and have to be removed during the sorting process. So do other foreign items, like waste wood and metal.
Do I have to take the staples out of boxes?
No — and you don’t have to remove cellophane packing tape either, though that does help.
The simple rule is: keep it clean, and don’t put anything in the recycling bins that you would not handle with bare hands.
What is the best way to handle shredded paper?
Shredded paper is accepted. The best way to handle it is to place it in a clear plastic bag — the clear bag makes the paper easier for sorters to see. Putting the paper loose in the blue bin is alright, but loose shredded paper can become contaminated once it's placed on the work floor of the MRF.
Are the liners of cereal boxes acceptable for recycling?
Yes, the liners are acceptable at SARCAN.
Can we put clamshell containers and plastic wrap in our recycle bin?
SARCAN is now the drop-off for these products, as well as household glass and Styrofoam packaging.
Yes — NCSWMC still accepts these products in our system.
