YOUR TOWN.
YOUR RULES.
Genesee County
We’ve pawed our way through recycling bins all over the state, and we’ve learned that the rules of recycling differ from one community to the next. That’s why we’re here to talk to you about YOUR rules – the rules of recycling for residents of Genesee County. Reduce and reuse first, know it before you throw it when you recycle, and always reach out to Genesee County Metropolitan Planning Commission when you have questions.
Wondering if something is recyclable or belongs in the trash? Call the Recycling Hotline for all your questions: 810-762-7744.
Genesee County’s Essential Rules to Recycling Perfection
The plastic bags and flexible plastics shown below are not recyclable curbside in Genesee County. However, many grocery stores accept clean and dry bags and wraps.
What’s NEVER recyclable are things like potato chip bags and frozen food bags – just throw those out. They often contain multiple types and layers of plastic, making them impossible to recycle.
TIP: Reuse your smaller plastic bags as trash can liners or to pick up pet waste.
No plastic bags
No bread bags
No plastic sandwich baggies
No air pillows used in packaging
No plastic shipping envelopes
No bathroom tissue and paper towel wrapping
Recyclables need to be loose in the cart. We know it’s tempting to keep things orderly by putting all your recyclables in plastic (or paper) bags – but it’s a bad idea. Here’s why:
- Plastics bags get tangled in the sorting equipment at the recycling facility.
- Loose recyclables facilitate a more efficient sorting process.
No recyclables in a plastic bag
Loose recyclables
The technology to recycle Styrofoam, aka polystyrene foam, does exist, but it requires a special process. Currently there is no collection or recycling of foam in Genesee County. Look for opportunities to reuse foam or just put it in your garbage.
No foam takeout food container/s
No foam beverage cups
No foam packaging
(the kind of hard foam that goes around items inside a box)
Why all the excitement about recycling? Well, there are countless benefits to recycling.
- Recycling reduces the amount of garbage that goes into landfills – which helps protect our environment and natural resources.
- Recycling is great for the economy – locally and statewide. It provides jobs and creates opportunities for businesses.
- Reusing materials we’ve already created helps conserve natural resources.
- Recycling reduces water pollution.
- Recycling helps protect our wildlife habitats.
Flattened cardboard
Metal cans of various sizes
Plastic jugs, containers and bottles
Office papers and folders
Newspapers
Junk mail
Keep up the good work,
Genesee County!
If you still have questions about what’s recyclable and what’s not, Genesee County Metropolitan Planning Commission can help.
Genesee County Metropolitan Planning Commission
1101 Beach Street, Room 111
Flint, MI 48502-1470
810-762-7744
These rules are true of all curbside recycling for residents of Genesee County. If you live outside this area, you’ll want to check with your local recycling provider for your specific rules and information.
