Beginning Monday, April 6, 2020 Malden’s trash hauler JRM will begin strictly enforcing proper recycling procedures and will leave behind all recycling materials that are not in compliance. Even the most conscientious recyclers must be careful to make sure they are following JRM’s strict requirements.
The City realizes this is coming at a time when residents are already dealing with uncertainties related to the Coronavirus pandemic. Please give this mandate from JRM your fullest attention in order to avoid materials not being picked up and left on the curb. Improperly recycled bins will receive a tag indicating that the materials are improperly recycled. Some of the most common mistakes include the following:
- Not washing out cans/bottles/jars and having food still on them (including milk cartons- these must be thoroughly rinsed);
- Pizza boxes or other takeout food containers with food or grease on them;
- Styrofoam materials (not recyclable); and
- Using a plastic bag to contain your recyclables - recyclables MUST be in bins/barrels.
Residents who avoid these common mistakes will find no disruption in service. Some of our residents are asking “why now?” and that is a fair question. The answer is that companies who purchase recycled materials are demanding that materials are clean and not contaminated as contaminated materials go directly into the trash stream.
For information about proper recycling, contact the Malden DPW at 781-397-7160 or visit cityofmalden.org/trash for a quick reference flyer on proper recycling practices.