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What gets recycled in Philadelphia

Even though an item might have the recycling symbol on the bottom, that does not mean the city can recycle it.

Philadelphia’s Department of Sanitation collects over 610,000 tons of trash and 80,000 tons of recycling annually. deodorant can

The department, newly created this year by Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, handles trash and recycling pickup across the city, taking over duties from the Department of Streets in an effort to better address the city’s trash and illegal dumping issues.

Here’s what residents should and shouldn’t put in their recycling bins for curbside pickup.

Removed from plastic sleeves and bags

Junk mail, envelopes, and writing paper

Greeting cards and gift wrap (non-metallic)

Emptied, rinsed, and dry — lids and caps on

All food and beverage containers

Emptied, rinsed, and dry — lids and caps on

Aluminum, steel, and tin cans

Aluminum or steel baking trays/dishes

Jar lids and bottle caps on empty containers

Flattened and free of grease and food

Clean (not greasy) pizza boxes

Emptied, rinsed, and dry — lids and caps on

Even though an item might have the recycling symbol on the bottom, that does not mean the city can recycle it. And even though something might be metal, that doesn’t mean it can be recycled. Propane and helium tanks are dangerous. Wires and plastic bags tangle machinery at recycling facilities.

Disposable plates, cups, and takeout containers

Greasy or food-soiled paper and cardboard

special shaped spray can Tissues, paper towels, and napkins