Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use containers other than the ones provided by Public Waste Services?
No. The automated collection trucks are designed to accept only the garbage and recycling containers provided by Public Waste Services. Other carts or cans cannot be used with this system.
Is there a specific number of times a piece of paper be recycled?
One piece of paper can include new fibers as well as fibers which have been recycled several times. Paper can usually be recycled 5-7 times before the fibers become too small to be recycled again.
Why do you sort paper before it is recycled?
Recycling requires clean paper which is free of things like food, plastic, metal, and other trash. Trash can bring bacteria into the process of recycling. In addition, different grades of paper ought to be kept divided as well.
What does the recycling symbol with the three chasing arrows stand for?
It represents the processing and collection of recyclable materials, the manufacturing of those materials into new products, and then the purchasing of the new products by consumers who then again start the process over as in a cycle.
Why are zinc and alkaline batteries not recyclable?
Some metals can be recovered in recycling carbon zinc and alkaline batteries, but often it is very costly and not economical. Alkaline batteries contain a small quantity of mercury. Consider switching over to rechargeable batteries that last much longer, cost much less in the long run and are recyclable.
Are You in a Franchised Service Area?
Did you know even though your community may be under an exclusive franchised agreement for waste disposal with one private hauler, you still may have another company service all your Recovered Materials (recyclables)? Public Waste is a licensed Recovered Material hauler and operates Eco Waste Transfer & Recycling, a recovered material processing facility.