America Recycles Day is later this week. This is a day where the nation is encouraged to take a time out to recycle more and recycle right.

In Madison, we’ve been recycling for over 50 years, but even we make mistake and place the wrong thing into the recycling cart.

To honor America Recycles Day, take a moment to refresh your memory of Madison’s recycling rules.

There are many tools available to help you and your household become better recyclers.

Available Tools
Residents can stop by either Streets Division office to receive a free magnet that shows the basics of recycling. The 3” x 5” magnets are perfect for the refrigerator of any house or apartment that could use a nudge to recycle a little better.

There is a simple one-page printable guide that also covers the basics. You could even use the free magnet to hold this sheet onto the fridge!

If you need more detail, there is another printable guide available on the Streets Division’s website. This guide can also be found on the lid of most new recycling carts issued by the Streets Division.

For the most detailed information about Madison’s rules and opportunities, obtain a copy of the Recyclopedia. Digital copies are available on the Streets Division’s website. Paper copies are available at Madison Public Libraries and can be mailed to residents upon request.

Pellitteri Waste Systems is the company that sorts the recycling collected by the Streets Division. You can watch a video that shows exactly how they do this hard work. The video will help folks understand why certain items – like clothes and hoses – do not belong in the recycling cart.

There is a smartphone app available from RecycleCoach. The app is available via all major app stores and their website. On social media, follow Recycle More Wisconsin. This is a statewide organization helping spread information on recycling more and recycling right.
There is also information on what can be placed into the recycling cart at the Streets Division’s website, www.cityofmadison.com/recycling.

And finally, feel free to contact the Streets Division office for help. Residents who live east of South Park Street can call 608-246-4532 and residents west of South Park Street can call 608-266-4681. Office hours are Monday through Friday 7:30am to 4:00pm. Or you can email anytime to streets@cityofmadison.com.