Download a printer friendly version of the featured recycling info.

Why recycle? Recycling conserves natural resources and energy, reduces waste - saving landfill space, cuts pollution and creates jobs.

The first step is to contact your local community to know what materials are accepted for recycling, how to prepare them, and when to set them out. View the Recycling Grid to determine recyclable materials in your village. In most SWANCC community curbside recycling programs, the following materials are accepted:

How do I prepare materials for recycling?

PRECYCLE. If you can't recycle it, avoid buying it in the first place.

Steel lids from glass jars and bottles can be recycled - remove from container before placing in your recycling bin or cart.

Rinse out all bottles, cans, lids and containers.

Labels DO NOT need to be removed from glass, plastic or metal containers.

Flatten bulky materials as to make extra room in your bin or cart for more materials.

Recycling DON'TS:

DON'T put broken glass, light bulbs, ceramic cups or dishes, mirrors or window panes in your recycling container.

DON'T put materials with food residue in your recycling container - it contaminates the load, attracts outdoor vermin and can be a health risk.

DON'T contaminate your recyclables with garbage.

Sources for more information:

Find sources in Green Pages for "unique" items to recycle or reuse.

Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity: www.illinoisrecycles.com