What can you recycle?
Recycling plays a vital role in supporting The Underline’s sustainability and resiliency initiatives. Every item you recycle helps reduce waste, conserve resources, and protect our environment for future generations. Here’s how common recyclable materials make an impact:
- Paper Products and Cardboard
Paper and cardboard are among the most commonly used materials in daily life. By recycling these items, you help save trees, reduce water usage, and lower greenhouse gas emissions from paper production. Recycled cardboard also contributes to creating new packaging materials, helping to close the loop in a sustainable cycle. - Aluminum Food and Beverage Cans
Aluminum is 100% recyclable and can be reused indefinitely without losing quality. Recycling aluminum saves up to 95% of the energy required to produce new cans from raw materials. That means every can you recycle helps conserve energy and reduce environmental pollution. - Juice and Milk Cartons
Cartons are lightweight and designed for sustainability. When recycled, they can be transformed into paper products or even building materials like roofing tiles. By recycling your cartons, you contribute to reducing landfill waste and the demand for virgin resources. - Plastic Bottles
Recycling plastic bottles reduces the amount of plastic waste in our environment, helping to protect wildlife and ecosystems. Recycled plastics can be turned into everything from clothing to outdoor furniture, supporting a circular economy that benefits both people and the planet. - Glass Bottles
Glass is infinitely recyclable and retains its quality through every cycle. By recycling glass bottles, you reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions associated with manufacturing new glass. Plus, recycled glass can be used to create new containers, fiberglass insulation, and other materials.
Recycling at The Underline: How You Can Help
When you recycle these materials at The Underline, you’re not just keeping the park clean—you’re actively contributing to its mission of fostering sustainability and resilience. Recycling stations throughout the park make it easy for you to dispose of these materials responsibly.
Together, we can reduce waste, conserve natural resources, and support a greener, more sustainable future for our community and beyond. Every small action counts—join us in making a difference today!
What can’t be placed in the recycling bin?
While recycling is a crucial part of building a sustainable future, not all materials can be processed through conventional recycling programs. Knowing what can’t be recycled helps prevent contamination in recycling bins and ensures the system works effectively. Here’s a list of common non-recyclable items and why they don’t belong in the recycling stream:
- Plastic Bags
Plastic bags often tangle in recycling machinery, causing operational issues at processing facilities. Instead of placing them in recycling bins, consider reusing them or taking them to designated collection points at grocery stores or community drop-off locations. - Foam or Plastic Take-Out Boxes
Foam (often referred to as Styrofoam) and certain types of plastic take-out containers are not accepted in most recycling programs because they are difficult to process and have limited reuse potential. Try switching to reusable containers or supporting businesses that use compostable packaging. - Plastic Hangers
Most plastic hangers are made from mixed materials or types of plastic that aren’t recyclable. Consider donating them to thrift stores or creatively repurposing them at home. - Batteries
Batteries, including single-use and rechargeable types, contain chemicals and metals that can be harmful to the environment if not disposed of properly. Look for specialized battery recycling programs or drop-off locations in your area to ensure they are handled safely. - Other Items to Avoid
Items such as greasy pizza boxes, snack wrappers, disposable utensils, and certain types of coated paper also don’t belong in standard recycling bins. Always check local recycling guidelines to avoid contamination.
What to Do Instead
- Repurpose: Find creative ways to reuse non-recyclable items at home.
- Dispose Responsibly: Use designated disposal sites for hazardous materials like batteries or e-waste.
- Support Sustainable Alternatives: Opt for reusable or compostable products whenever possible.
At The Underline, we strive to educate and empower our community to make mindful waste management decisions. Together, we can minimize our environmental impact and protect our shared spaces. If you’re unsure about how to dispose of an item, check our resources or ask a team member for guidance!
What about chemicals?
Proper disposal of chemicals is essential for protecting the environment and public health. Many household chemicals, such as cleaners, paints, or pesticides, can’t be thrown away with regular trash or recycled. Instead of letting these products go to waste, consider participating in the ChemAgain Program, a fantastic initiative by the county that promotes safe disposal and reuse of chemical products.
The ChemAgain Program collects new or almost-new household chemical products at designated Home Chemical Collection Centers. These products are then made available to the community for free or at a reduced cost, helping to reduce waste and support sustainable practices.
Why Use the ChemAgain Program?
- Reduce Waste: Prevent perfectly good chemical products from ending up in landfills or being improperly disposed of.
- Protect the Environment: Avoid contamination of soil and water sources by ensuring chemicals are handled safely.
- Save Money: Access new or nearly new chemical products for your home, garden, or DIY projects at no cost.
How to Participate
- Drop Off Unused Chemicals: Take your unwanted or excess chemicals to any participating Home Chemical Collection Center. Check the county’s website for locations and accepted items.
- Browse for Reuse: Visit a collection center to see what’s available for reuse. You might find paint, cleaning supplies, or other products you can put to good use.
- Spread the Word: Encourage your neighbors and friends to use the program, reducing waste and promoting community sustainability.
The ChemAgain Program is a win-win solution that aligns perfectly with The Underline’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By choosing responsible disposal methods, we can all contribute to a healthier and more resilient community. Learn more about ChemAgain and other eco-friendly initiatives by visiting the county’s website or contacting your local collection center today!
Click here for more information from Miami-Dade County’s Department of Waste Management
City Resources
Did you know where you live impacts what you can recycle? Visit the websites below to learn more about what is recyclable in the various cities adjacent to The Underline:
Support
Thank you to the Florida Beverage Association and the American Beverage Foundation for a Healthy America for their generous support.