Contamination is one of the biggest problems facing the
recycling industry. Many people put non-recyclable materials in their bluerecycling bins, either from lack of knowledge or because of “wish recycling”—a
term referring to when non-recyclable items are put in a recycling bin becausethe individual hopes it is recyclable. Contamination requires more labor to
sort the recyclable from the non-recyclable materials, and it costs more to theuser as items like plastic bags and rope tangle the expensive sorting machines,
forcing them to be turned off frequently and repaired.
To recycle right, focus on the basics. Make sure yourrecyclables are always empty, clean, and dry. Pay attention to what is accepted
in your recycling bin by checking with your recycling service provider. InSpokane County, visit www.spokanecounty.org/2027/Recyclingfor a full list of what is accepted. When in doubt, throw it out—don’t recyclesomething unless you’re sure it’s accepted by your provider.