Renee,
Are the waxed cartons that contain milk and soups recyclable?
Cheryl
Cheryl,
Thanks to you, I’ve learned something new. Contrary to what I thought to be true, and to what some national recycling web sites are saying, Republic Waste Services of Indiana – who many people use for curbside pick-up in Indy – does accept cartons.
There are two types of cartons: shelf-stable and refrigerated. Shelf-stable cartons are made from paper with thin layers of plastic and aluminum to keep foods, like soup, soy milk and wine, fresh without refrigeration. Refrigerated cartons are made from paper with a thin layer of plastic (not wax!) and are used to store things like OJ and milk. Both are accepted in curbside recycling bins in Indianapolis!
One of the benefits of buying boxed vs. bottled is that the packaging weighs less during transit, reducing fuel consumption. Just remember to rinse and flatten the cartons before dropping them in your recycle bin so the recycling truck isn’t hauling around loads of stinky boxed air.
As I write this, I hear the sweet sound of my recycling bin being dumped into the Republic truck. Kind of makes me thirsty for a nice boxed Pinot.
Peace out,
Renee
NOTE: RecycleForce is in the process of moving to their new location at 1125 Brookside Ave, Suite D12, 46202. All electronics and other recyclables should be taken to the new facility.
