Make Recycling Your New Year’s Resolution with Boise’s 2023 Schedule

As we bid farewell to 2022 and embrace the fresh start of 2023, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on our habits and consider making positive changes. If you’re looking for an impactful resolution that benefits both the environment and your community, committing to recycling is a fantastic choice.

Boise, Idaho, is a city dedicated to sustainability and waste reduction. With its comprehensive recycling program, Boise makes it easy for residents to divert valuable materials from landfills and contribute to a greener future. Whether you’re a seasoned recycler or just starting out, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to make recycling your New Year’s resolution a success.

Boise’s Recycling Schedule: A Comprehensive Guide

To ensure effective recycling, it’s essential to understand Boise’s recycling schedule. The city utilizes a two-stream recycling system, meaning that recyclables are separated into two categories: mixed recyclables and glass.

Mixed Recyclables

Mixed recyclables include items such as paper, cardboard, plastic bottles and jugs, metal cans, and aluminum foil. These materials should be placed in your designated recycling bin, which is typically blue or green. The recycling schedule for mixed recyclables varies depending on your location within Boise. To find your specific schedule, visit the City of Boise’s website or refer to the Boise Trash and Recycling Schedule, available online or through the Boise Recycle app.

Glass

Glass is collected separately from other recyclables due to its unique recycling process. Glass bottles and jars should be placed in a designated glass recycling bin, typically clear or green. The glass recycling schedule may differ from the mixed recyclables schedule, so be sure to check the City of Boise’s website or the Boise Recycle app for your specific schedule.

Recycling Right: Tips and Guidelines

To ensure your recyclables are processed correctly and diverted from landfills, follow these tips and guidelines:

Rinse and Empty Containers: Rinse out any remaining food or liquid from containers before recycling them. This helps prevent contamination and ensures the materials are properly recycled.
Remove Lids and Caps: Separate lids and caps from plastic bottles and jars. These items are often made from different materials and require specialized recycling processes.
Flatten Cardboard Boxes: Flatten cardboard boxes to save space and make them easier to handle. This also helps the recycling facility process them more efficiently.
Keep Recyclables Dry: Avoid placing wet or damp materials in your recycling bin. Moisture can contaminate other recyclables and hinder the recycling process.
No Plastic Bags: Plastic bags are not accepted in curbside recycling programs. They can tangle equipment at recycling facilities and contaminate other recyclables. Instead, bring plastic bags to designated drop-off locations or check with your local grocery store for plastic bag recycling programs.

Beyond the Basics: Recycling Electronics, Appliances, and More

In addition to mixed recyclables and glass, Boise offers recycling options for a wide range of other materials, including electronics, appliances, paint, and scrap metal.

Electronics Recycling

Electronic waste, or e-waste, contains hazardous materials that should not be disposed of in landfills. Boise residents can recycle electronics at several locations throughout the city, including the Boise Recycle Center and participating retailers. Check the City of Boise’s website or the Boise Recycle app for a list of accepted electronics and drop-off locations.

Appliance Recycling

Large appliances, such as refrigerators, stoves, and dishwashers, contain valuable materials that can be recycled. Boise residents can schedule a bulky waste pickup for appliance recycling through the City of Boise’s website or by calling the Boise Recycle Center. Additionally, some appliance retailers offer recycling programs for old appliances when you purchase a new one.

Paint Recycling

Leftover paint can be recycled to prevent it from contaminating landfills. Boise residents can drop off latex and oil-based paints at the Boise Recycle Center. Please note that paint cans must be properly sealed and labeled.

Scrap Metal Recycling

Metal items, such as old bicycles, lawnmowers, and metal furniture, can be recycled at scrap metal recycling facilities. These facilities typically pay for the scrap metal they receive, making it a great way to earn a little extra cash while helping the environment.

Recycle Boise: Your Partner in Sustainability

Boise’s commitment to recycling is evident in its comprehensive recycling program and the variety of recycling options available to residents. By making recycling a part of your routine, you’re not only reducing waste and conserving resources, but you’re also contributing to a cleaner, greener Boise.

This New Year, resolve to make recycling a habit. Start by familiarizing yourself with Boise’s recycling schedule and guidelines. Then, take advantage of the various recycling options available in the city. Together, we can make a positive impact on our environment and create a more sustainable future for Boise.

For more information on recycling in Boise, visit the City of Boise’s website or download the Boise Recycle app.