Recycling

Recycle Right By Knowing Before You Throw

Recycling is one of the easiest ways to reduce waste, but it can also be confusing. What’s recyclable can vary by city, county, hauler or drop-off location, which means the best answer is not always the same across Hampton Roads.

That’s why the most important recycling habit is to check before you toss. Learning a few basic recycling rules can help reduce contamination, protect local recycling programs and keep reusable materials out of the trash.

Why Recycling Can Be Confusing

Recycling programs depend on where you live, how your waste is collected and what local facilities are able to accept. Some items that seem recyclable may not be, while others may need to be taken to a special drop-off location.

When the wrong items are recycled, they can cause contamination, damage equipment or force good materials to be thrown away. Checking first helps make recycling work better for everyone.

Recycling Basics

While local rules can vary, these simple habits can help you recycle smarter:

Recycle only items accepted by your local program
Keep recyclables empty, clean and dry
Do not bag recyclables unless your locality specifically allows it
Keep food, liquids, foam and plastic bags out of most curbside recycling bins
Take batteries, electronics, medications and household hazardous waste to approved drop-off locations

Don’t Guess. Just Ask!

Not sure whether something can be recycled, trashed or specially disposed of?

Use the Recycling & Disposal Tool to search by item and locality for guidance specific to your community.

Use the Waste Wizard

Recycle Better, Waste Less

Recycling works best when we all do our part. By checking local guidance, not recycling the wrong items and reducing waste whenever possible, we can help keep Hampton Roads cleaner and support stronger recycling programs across the region.