Recycled Other Quiz
Greetings. I am Frank – the recycling authority in the Other category. I specialize in recycling items like batteries, electronics, tires, rope, paint, clothes, mattresses and many other things. Since so many things could be considered “others,” my quiz is essentially designed to not only test your knowledge, but also to encourage critical thinking whenever you encounter an object you’re not sure about. So, good luck. Don’t be like the others, and have a Happy Other’s Day!
Start the Quiz!Question 1
Is Styrofoam™ recyclable curbside?
Check AnswerIncorrect
Answer: NO
Styrofoam or polystyrene foam is not recyclable curbside. Styrofoam containers contaminated with food cannot be recycled at all. Same with packing peanuts – even the biodegradable ones. However, there ARE some drop-off locations for clean Styrofoam recycling. Check locally for recycle centers that accept Styrofoam and online for resources like homeforfoam.com. By the way, Styrofoam is technically a Dow Chemical Co. trademarked brand of polystyrene foam that is used to insulate buildings. However, the term is also used generically – if erroneously – to refer to foam cups, plates, etc.
Next Question!Question 2
Why the heck isn’t Styrofoam recyclable at the curb? It’s everywhere!
Check AnswerIncorrect
Answer: E
All of the above. The technology to recycle Styrofoam does exist, but it’s usually collected at a special location. It’s light, bulky and challenging to manage in a curbside program. The good news is that local drop-off programs are growing in Michigan. Check with your service provider to see if it accepts it, or look for a special collection point locally.
Next Question!Question 3
A material that wraps around recycling machinery is called a “tangler.” Which of the following are considered “tanglers”?
Check AnswerIncorrect
Answer: D
All of the above. Rope, twin, wire, plastic bags, cords, hose and light strings are all considered tanglers and should not be recycled. Tanglers are things that jam sorting machinery at the recycling center by wrapping around the equipment discs and wheels. This creates problems and can shut down the entire operation. Some of these items can be recycled elsewhere.
Next Question!Question 4
Which statements about recycling things in the Other category are true?
Check AnswerIncorrect
Answer: D
All the above. All those statements are true.
Next Question!Question 5
There are NEVER events to recycle household items such as paint, clothes and mattresses.
Check AnswerIncorrect
Answer: False
There are MANY events to recycle those household materials and electronics such as TVs, special batteries, etc. Check with your local community or county of residence for upcoming events.
Next Question!Question 6
Which of the following Other items contaminate the recycling process and are not accepted with other curbside recyclables?
Check AnswerIncorrect
Answer: D
All of the above. Food scraps, oil and paint contaminate the recycling process. Some communities offer curbside composting that includes food pickup. But don’t be surprised if a hungry raccoon like me investigates a container that smells like food. I mean, we are wild beasts, you know.
Next Question!Question 7
Batteries are recyclable curbside.
Check AnswerIncorrect
Answer: False
No batteries are recyclable curbside. Look for a local drop-off location or a mail-in program. Never throw batteries of any type in the trash or curbside recycling.
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