Recycling
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Why can’t we recycle everything?
This is by far the most asked question. The shortest answer is that not everything has a market. Remember that recycling is a business, with the economics driven by supply and demand – just like any other business. Is there a demand by a manufacturer for a particular material? Can they use recycled materials in the manufacturing process? Of course, what often drives the manufacturer’s demand for a material type is the consumers’ demand for the end product. By buying products containing recycled materials, we “close the loop.” When the loop is closed, markets are developed, and recycling those materials makes more economic sense. In short, in order for anything to be recycled, it must have a market. Be a part of the solution: “Buy Recycled.” |
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Why do I need to recycle?
The California Legislature passed the California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989 requiring California communities to divert 25% of their waste from landfills by 1995 and 50% of their waste by the year 2000. Our community is at 73%. The curbside recycling program is a community program to reduce waste. It is convenient, easy, and the right thing to do. |
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Will recycling cost more?
The cost is included in the garbage collection program, and that cost is based upon how much garbage you and your family produce. The less garbage you throw away, the less you will pay, as weekly residential garbage service is available in three cart sizes (32-, 64-, or 96-gallons). This is one reason why it’s important for you to reduce, reuse, and recycle everything – from your soda bottles to yard trimmings. |
Collection
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Will my garbage by picked up on holidays?
Yes, Recology Yuba-Sutter employees will make scheduled pickups even on holidays. The employees do, however, have additional assistance and finish routes earlier; therefore, we request that containers be placed curbside the night before. The office and Curbside Recycling Buyback Centers will be closed on all major holidays. Please see our holiday schedule for more information. |
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What time do my carts need to be out for pick up?
All garbage and recycling containers must be left at the curb by 5:00 a.m. We recommend placing materials out the night before as pick up times may vary. |
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How do I figure out which items go in each cart?
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What do I do if I have too much garbage for my cart?
Before the collection drivers can pick up extra bags of trash, arrangements must be made with our office in advance of your pick up day. A per bag charge will be added to your account. Extra recyclables and yard waste bagged and placed next to the carts will be picked up at no charge and with no prior arrangements.
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How often will I have to put out my carts?
Recyclable materials and green waste will be picked up each week on the same day that your garbage is collected, although not necessarily at the same time. You do not have to put out your carts until they are full. |
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Where do I put the carts?
Your carts should be placed at the curb, at least 3 feet apart and at least 3 feet from any cars or other objects. This allows the fully automated trucks to pick up the carts. If the driver has to leave the truck to move the cart, the cost of the program increases. |
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Is it possible to over-stuff my container?
Yes, garbage in an overstuffed container does not loosen and fall into the truck when flipped or can become overweight. Please be aware of compacting garbage too tightly into your container. Ordinary garbage produced by daily living will generally be within the weight limitation. |
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I have noticed that when the trucks pick up my gray cart, the mechanical arm often knocks over the recycling cart nearby. What can I do to avoid this in the future?
You may not have left enough room between carts for the arm. Please be sure to place your recycling containers at least three feet from other carts, cars, and basketball hoops. If you have questions of what items are acceptable you can search on WhatBin.com. |
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Although I have the magnet and brochure initially provided with my carts, sometimes I have items that may or may not be acceptable in the curbside recycling cart. How can I tell for sure whether something is acceptable?
Call Recology Yuba-Sutter customer service representatives at 530-743-6933. Should you occasionally make a mistake, the driver will leave a note on a tag to let you know what material was in the wrong cart. If you have questions of what items acceptable you can search on what bin. |
Additional Questions
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Do I have to rinse jars, bottles, and cans?
Yes; Please empty all food residue and liquids from your food containers, cans, bottles, and jars before tossing them in your recycling container. Keeping the recyclables clean, dry, and loose helps prevent odors and helps keep them from attracting insects. |
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I have a lot of green waste in the Spring and Fall. What can I do?
If you have too much green waste for your cart, you can bag or bundle the excess for pickup. |
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I redeem my cans and bottles for cash. Can I still do that?
Yes! You are already a recycling hero! You may continue taking these recyclables to a certified recycling center. |
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What should I do with fluorescent light bulbs?
Fluorescent light bulbs can no longer be placed in garbage containers, i.e. gray carts, containers, or debris boxes. You may take spent bulbs to the Household Hazardous Waste Facility at 134 Burns Drive in Yuba City. Contact Recology Yuba-Sutter at 530-743-6933 for further information. |