Recycling Practices and Guidelines (SUNY Oswego RT Training)

Recycling is the process of…

• Disposing of waste materials

  
  

• Collecting waste materials

• Making new materials

• Converting waste materials into new materials and objects.

Answer explanation

Recycling specifically involves converting waste materials into new materials and objects, rather than just disposing of or collecting them. This process helps reduce waste and conserve resources.

 Among the following, which object can be recycled through single stream recycling?

• Concrete

• Compost

• Glass

• Soil

Answer explanation

Among the options, glass is recyclable. It can be melted down and remade into new glass products, making it a sustainable choice. Concrete, compost, and soil are not typically recycled in the same way.

What is the correct place to dispose of tissues?

• Donation Bin

• Compost Bin

• Trash Bin

• Recycling Bin

Answer explanation

The correct place to dispose of tissues is the Trash Bin. Tissues are typically not recyclable or compostable due to contamination, so they should be thrown away in the trash to prevent hygiene issues.

Should you recycle pizza boxes with food scraps and stains?

• Yes

• No

Answer explanation

No, you should not recycle paper cartons with food scraps or stains. Contaminated materials can disrupt the recycling process and lead to lower quality recycled products.

What is single-stream recycling?

• A recycling method where only paper products are collected.

• A recycling system where all recyclable materials are mixed together in one container.

• A process that involves sorting recyclables at a central facility before collection.

• A type of recycling where items must be cleaned and separated by type before disposal.

Answer explanation

Single-stream recycling allows all recyclable materials to be mixed in one container, simplifying the process for consumers and increasing participation in recycling programs.

A student needs help with getting rid of a dead battery. What is the best thing the student can do?

• It is not recyclable so throw it in the trash.

• It is recyclable so because we do single-stream recycling toss it in the recycling bin.

• Collect batteries in a secure container and throw them in the trash once they build up.

• Collect batteries in a secure container and let the RT Coordinator know when they build up.

Answer explanation

The best option is to collect batteries in a secure container and inform the RT Coordinator when they accumulate. This ensures proper disposal and recycling, preventing environmental harm.

A student wants to get rid of a new shirt that just doesn't fit them. What is the best advice you can give?

• Explain that we don't take clothing donations.

• Donate it to Oz Thrift at the end of the semester. Or Thrifty Shopper in town.

• Clothes are mostly plastic these days and they can be recycled.

• Throw your shirt in the trash.

Answer explanation

The best advice is to donate the shirt to Oz Thrift or Thrifty Shopper. This option helps others in need and promotes sustainability, rather than throwing it away or recycling it improperly.

You cannot figure out if a specific item is recyclable or not. Which of these options should you avoid?

• Recycle it, it seems like it's just plastic.

• Refer to the RT Binder.

• Throw it in the trash since you are unsure.

• Check The Oneida-Herkimer Transfer Station Website.

Answer explanation

You should avoid recycling it just because it looks like plastic, as this can lead to contamination. Instead, refer to reliable resources like the RT Binder or local websites for accurate recycling information.

While mobile cart recycling a student says they have a busted monitor, hands it to you, and closes their door before you can ask any questions.

• Contact the Office of Sustainability or Environmental Health & Safety for the appropriate next steps.

• Knock on the door and hand it back to them.

• Throw it in a dumpster.

• Dismantle it and recycle the relevant separate parts. 

Answer explanation

Contacting the Office of Sustainability or Environmental Health & Safety is the best option, as they can provide guidance on the proper disposal of hazardous materials like a busted monitor.

What needs to be on a can or bottle for it to be eligible for a 5-cent exchange in New York State?

• The 5c symbol.

• A plastic cap

• Both the 5c symbol and NY listed with it.

• A number on the bottom of the can/bottle.

Answer explanation

For a can or bottle to be eligible for a 5-cent exchange in New York State, it must have both the 5c symbol and 'NY' listed with it, indicating it is part of the state's bottle deposit law.