Be a better recycler

We know recycling can be confusing. The rules keep changing and it’s hard to know how to be a good recycler.

It can be hard to remember all the rules, but we have a few videos to help you be a better recycler.

What goes where

The first step to being a better recycler is knowing what items belong in your recycling cart or bin. Our video below will help you learn how to recycle right in Winnipeg.

Be a better recycler

The next step to being a better recycler is to learn about the items you recycle and how to prepare them for your cart or bin. Watch our video and use our tips to become a better recycler:

  • Toss recyclables into your cart separate from each other
  • Do not stuff items into other items or into bags
  • Flatten cardboard boxes instead of throwing them in as is
  • Empty and rinse food and beverage containers before placing them into your recycling cart
  • Squeeze the middle of plastic bottles to help keep them stable on the conveyor belts
  • Separate the different materials of mixed material items.
    • For example, remove the boxboard insert from plastic packaging before you toss both items in your cart.
  • Check the symbols on items:

    • Mobius Loop symbol 

      A Mobius Loop shows that the item can be recycled somewhere. Unfortunately, that doesn’t mean that we accept it in our program.

    • Green dot symbol 

      This symbol is the Green Dot. The Green Dot does not mean an item is recyclable. Instead it shows that the product maker gives a financial contribution toward the recovery and recycling of packaging.

    • Corrosive hazardous waste symbols 

      ​Corrosive

      Explosive hazardous waste symbols 

      ​Explosive

      Poison hazardous waste symbols 

      ​Poison

      Flammablehazardous waste symbols 

      ​Flammable

      Items with the symbols above are not accepted in our blue cart recycling program. It is dangerous to toss them in your cart, so please take them to your closest 4R Winnipeg Depot.
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