The recycling bin has definitely become part of our everyday lives. And yet, the contamination rate in peoples' recycling bins is going up. As our sorting method has a direct impact on the quality of materials to be recycled, here are 4 questions you need to ask yourself to become a #BlueBinPro and contribute to growing a true circular economy for recyclable materials in Quebec.

1. Containers, packaging or printed matter

First and foremost, whatever you put in the recycling bin has to belong to one of these categories: container, packaging or printed matter. For example, a Mason jar is a container, a cereal box is packaging and a brochure is printed matter. A plastic toy is none of these, and would not be accepted. There are, however, a few exceptions to this rule:

Materials that do not go in the recycling bin can sometimes get a new lease on life elsewhere. Batteries, electronics, paint and bulky items are often accepted in eco-centers. Find out!

2. Do I need to rinse out the containers?

We recommend rinsing out plastic, glass and metal containers before placing them in the recycling bin. This will help avoid contamination of other materials and will contribute to reducing unpleasant odours and the development of mould, for the benefit of sorting center [C1] workers.

Eco-bonus: Do this in your daily dishwashing water!

3. Can the packaging's components be separated?

As the name implies, the role of sorting centers, also known as materials recycling facilities or MRFs in the business, is to sort the various recyclable materials by class. By separating the various components of your packaging (cap, handle, top, etc.), you are ensuring that each of these will end up in the right class. For example, before placing an empty box of cookies in the recycling bin, remove the plastic from the cardboard box. No need to remove the plastic window from envelopes or the labels on tin cans.

4. Still not sure?

These tips are great, but you're still not sure? Use RECYC-QUÉBEC's tool, called Ça va où? (in French). In just a few clicks, you'll get all the answers you need to know where it goes and avoid making any recycling #BinOopsies.