Plastic Cups and Utensils Are NOT Recyclable Curbside
Cleveland, Ohio — The big football game is coming and the excitement is growing! But the big game and the parties that accompany it generate a lot of trash.
Unfortunately, all disposable paper and plastic cups cannot be recycled. Do not place them in with curbside recycling. Make sure the red plastic cups (and all other colors) plus plastic utensils and disposable plates make it into the trash instead. Here’s how you can be prepared to tackle waste and recycle right during football’s main event on Sunday, February 3:
1. Choose reusable cups and utensils instead of buying single-use disposable plastic ones that can’t be recycled curbside. If you need more than you have on hand, you can usually buy them very inexpensively at thrift, discount and secondhand shops. After your party, just put them in the dishwasher — instead of sending them off to the landfill — and store them in a box until your next event.
2. Consider a decorative or event-themed reusable cup as a fun party favor (and have a marker available so each guest can write their name on their cup). These are often used for years — instead of hours.
3. Get out the old china dishes. Avoid using paper plates and foil pans – none are recyclable. If you are packaging leftovers, reuse plastic containers or glass jars instead of throw-away alternatives.
4. Serve beverages from large containers and dispensers instead of purchasing single bottles or cans of water and soda.
About The Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District
The Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District is the public agency helping the people of Cuyahoga County reduce, reuse and recycle at home, at work and in their communities. We serve as the leading resource in the County for information, expertise and programs that support sustainable materials management and reduce the environmental impact of waste.
Visit www.CuyahogaRecycles.org or call 216.443.3749 to learn how to recycle in your community and discover other recycling and disposal options.