In HelloNation, Waste Management Expert Dori John Explains What Items Should Not Go in a Co-Mingled Recycling Bin

Waste Management expert Dori John of Roseburg Disposal has issued a detailed guide on preventing contamination within co-mingled recycling systems in Roseburg, Oregon. The guidance addresses the operational challenges caused by improper disposal of materials like plastic bags and hazardous waste, which can damage sorting machinery and compromise worker safety. By clarifying local restrictions, the initiative aims to improve the efficiency of recycling facilities and ensure a higher percentage of materials are successfully processed rather than diverted to landfills.

Dori John, representing Roseburg Disposal, highlighted that while co-mingled recycling simplifies the process for households by allowing paper, cardboard, metals, and plastics in one bin, it remains highly susceptible to contamination. Plastic bags and other flexible materials like bubble wrap and Styrofoam are cited as primary disruptors because they frequently tangle in sorting machinery, necessitating manual removal and costly operational pauses. These materials cannot be effectively processed by standard equipment, leading to significant efficiency losses for local recycling infrastructure.

The report emphasizes the critical exclusion of hazardous materials and glass from curbside bins to protect both equipment and personnel. Items such as batteries, electronics, paint, and chemicals pose severe safety risks and may violate local disposal regulations, requiring residents to utilize specialized collection programs instead. Furthermore, glass is excluded from Roseburg’s co-mingled stream because it often breaks during collection, creating safety hazards for workers and contaminating other recyclables like paper and cardboard, which then become unprocessable.

To further optimize the waste stream, the guidance advises against including mixed-material packaging, such as plastic-coated cardboard, which cannot be easily separated and often ends up in landfills. While Oregon’s statewide rules offer some flexibility, John notes that minimizing food waste and liquids is essential for maintaining the quality of the recyclable materials. By adhering to these specific disposal protocols, the community can support a more reliable recycling system that maximizes the economic and environmental value of recovered resources.