Neighbors,

We all know that recycling is critical for conserving resources, and now, thanks to the cities new Single Steam Curbside Recycling program, it just got easier. I made a movie about this from inside one of the new bins - check it out!


Recycle more! As of July 1, 2009, Boston residents no longer have to separate paper and cardboard from cans and bottles. Instead, they may mix all recyclable materials together in one large container. The City will be delivering large wheeled recycling carts to residences with one to six units. Carts will be delivered neighborhood by neighborhood between June 2009 and June 2010.

You will receive notification shortly before your cart is delivered. You should place your address on your cart; the cart will not be replaced. If you move, please leave the cart behind for the next resident.

Other Recycling Options
While you are waiting for a cart, or if your cart isn't the right size for your household, you can

Convert a Trash Can Into a Recycling Container. When you recycle more, you'll have less trash and won't need as many trash cans. Convert an unneeded can into a recycling container. The can must be no larger than 32 gallons and have a lid. Call 617-635-4500 to request a sticker to label this container for recycling.

Use a Small Blue Recycling Bin. You may continue to use your small blue bin. New or replacement blue bins, however, will no longer be provided by the City.

Acceptable Materials

• Newspaper (with inserts)
• Magazines/Catalogues
• Junk mail (remove free samples; plastic envelope window is ok)
• White & colored paper/brown bags
• Telephone books
• Flattened food boxes
• Paperback books
• Milk and juice cartons
• Juice/soy milk boxes
• Flattened cardboard boxes
• Pizza boxes (empty)
• Glass bottles/jars. (lids and labels ok)
• Tin and aluminum cans, foil, and pie plates (lids and labels ok)
• All plastic containers (caps & lid may stay. No motor oil or chemical containers)
• NEW! cardboard/spiral cans (potato chip, coffee, nut cans, etc)
• NEW! rigid plastics (laundry baskets, buckets, toys, etc)

Unacceptable Materials

• Styrofoam
• plastic bags
• motor oil containers
• chemical containers
• ceramics or dishes
• light bulbs
• window glass, mirrors
• yard waste
• food waste
• televisions
• computer monitors

Recycling and Trash Directory
This full-color directory has all the information, complete with images, that you need to properly dispose of trash and recycle in Boston.
Download Guide