Why are recycling rules different from city to city?

Recycling Explained

Why Local Recycling Guidelines Matter for Our Community

Recycling is an essential way to conserve resources, reduce waste, and support our local economy. However, it’s important to know that recycling rules vary depending on where you live.

Understanding and following local recycling guidelines ensures your efforts make a difference and that materials are processed efficiently.

Recycling: A Local Process

Recycling facilities are built to handle specific materials based on the equipment and markets available in their region. That’s why sending only accepted items to your local facility is critical. Sending unaccepted materials can cause contamination, increase processing costs, and waste resources.

Here in Sioux Falls, we have a clear, straightforward recycling program that accepts the following:

  1. Paper Products: Cardboard, paperboard, cartons, and mixed paper.
  2. Plastic Containers: Bottles, jugs, and tubs (regardless of numbers).
  3. Metal: Aluminum and steel cans.
  4. Glass: Bottles and jars.

For a complete and easy-to-follow guide, visit our single stream guide.

The Benefits for Our Community and Future

Recycling is more than just sorting materials—it’s about using resources wisely and supporting our local economy. When done correctly, recycling provides benefits such as:

  • Conserving Land and Resources: Recycling reduces the need for extracting raw materials, saving land for farming, recreation, and future development.
  • Extending Landfill Capacity: By diverting recyclable materials from the landfill, we ensure that available space lasts longer and reduces disposal costs.
  • Supporting Local Jobs: Recycling creates jobs in processing and manufacturing, boosting our local economy and keeping dollars in our community.

These efforts contribute to a stronger, more resourceful community that benefits everyone.

Let’s Work Together

Every item recycled properly makes a difference. By following local recycling guidelines and encouraging others to do the same, we can make a lasting impact for future generations.

Recycle right. Build a better tomorrow.