As many are aware, last year China announced restrictions on the import of recyclable materials the country would accept. Historically the largest recyclable scrap importer in the world, China has made it clear that they want to improve their environment by increasing the recycling of domestic recyclable materials. Additionally, the country began implementing new policies that restrict the importation of foreign recyclables, referred to as National Sword. These restrictions ban postconsumer mixed plastics, unsorted mixed paper, textiles, and more. As more restrictions are imposed on recyclable scrap markets, it’s become increasingly difficult (and expensive) to export recyclable materials in our country.

However difficult, Nauset Disposal is committed to doing the right thing, which is often not the easiest, and we will continue to leverage our relationships with other companies so that we can ensure our recycled materials are in fact, recycled.

What’s the long-term solution? For now, consumers should focus on the quality of our recyclables to ensure they can be recycled. Here are some basic tips to decrease contamination rates in your recycling container:

🗸 Say “No” to Contaminants
Garbage, food waste and hazardous waste does not belong in your recycling container

🗸 Keep your Recyclables Clean
Empty and rinse plastic, metal and glass containers before placing them in your recycling container

🗸 Flatten First
Cardboard boxes should be flattened before being placed in your recycling container

Here are some other changes you can make in your purchasing habits that can make a big impact on our waste stream:

🗸 Fix It, Don’t Trash It
Before you toss something away that no longer works, see if you can have it repaired. If you have to replace an item, purchase a good quality item that will last longer.

🗸 Shop Used
Rather than buying brand new, check out all the amazing thrift stores Cape Cod has to offer, consider organizing a clothing swap, or share or trade items with neighbors and friends.

🗸 Precycle
Cut down on packaging waste by selecting larger or bulk items instead of individually wrapped foods, like cheese sticks, snack packs, and individually bagged items such as chips and pretzels.