Separating and Sorting Recyclables:

Paper Products (the "Blue Bin")
The general rule of thumb is to put only clean, wax-free cardboard, boxboard, and paper into this bin. If the paper item can be easily ripped with your bare hands, it is probably recyclable. Staples, paper clips, plastic envelope windows, and spiral bindings do not need to be removed. Do not include material that has that has absorbed food, oil, paint, or pet waste.

Mixed Containers (the "Red Bin")
Please empty and rinse all containers. In general, food, beverage, personal care and washing detergent containers are the only acceptable forms of plastic for recycling. Expanded polystyrene or "Styrofoam" is not accepted in any form. Flattening aluminum cans and milk/juice jugs and cartons is helpful as it reduces transportation costs.

The following materials are NOT recyclable. If a substantial quantity of them are found in your recycling bin, waste haulers are authorized to leave your recyclables curbside until properly sorted. Avoid the following in your container recycling mix: broken glass, window glass, auto glass, dishes, glasses, Pyrex, lightbulbs, mirrors, six pack holders, plastic bags, chemical containers, Styrofoam containers, flower pots, toys, containers over two gallons, paint cans, aerosol cans, or other metal items. Visit www.amherstma.gov/recycling for more information, or call 413-259-3049.