Recipe #18:Recycling Rules!

Cornell Waste is in Your Hands...

Sustainability LIfe Graphic with a whisk




Cornell's Waste is in Your Hands graphic

Fall 2018

Major recycling restrictions went into effect on July 1st across the country. We need your help to ensure continues to capture and reuse our recyclable materials properly.

  • Recycled materials must be clean– no visible food debris, oil, or other remnants
  • Only plastic #1, #2, and #5 can be recycled (used to be #1-7)
  • Contamination could significantly lower recycling rates on campus – don’t be a “wishful” recycler.
  • Remember, no Styrofoam in the recycling (even if labeled with a recycling number), and all compostable service-ware such as forks and plate must go in the trash (they just don’t break down in the compost!)

Why are these changes happening?

  • For decades, China purchased a large percentage of the world’s recyclable materials (including from the United States). China often received highly contaminated loads of recyclables rendering them unusable. In response, China recently changed their policy and will heavily restrict the recycled materials they accept from foreign states.
  • Most communities in the US are not equipped to recycle the same variety as the US shipped overseas, and many US plants need materials to be cleaner than before.

How can you help?

  • When in doubt, throw it out.


  • Wipe it out!




Learn more at
