Recycle Right, Do It Right | Aussie Recycling

Infographic showing which items belong in the recycling bin and which ones do not

What can go in?

Clean plastic bottles, metal cans, paper, cardboard, and glass jars are often good recycling items. They should be empty and not full of leftover food or drink.

What should stay out?

Food scraps, plastic bags, clothes, and batteries can cause problems. Some of them jam machines, and some need a special place instead of the normal recycling bin.

Why does this matter?

When the wrong items go in, workers have more sorting to do and good recycling can get spoiled. Recycling the right way helps the whole system run better and keeps our Earth cleaner.

Easy tip

If you are not sure about an item, pause and ask a grown-up before putting it in the bin.
Try making a classroom poster with a yes side and a no side.
Remember that clean recycling is better than dirty recycling.

Quick Quiz

1. Name one item that usually belongs in the recycling bin.

Answer: A plastic bottle, metal can, paper, cardboard, or a glass jar.

2. Name one item that should stay out of the recycling bin.

Answer: Food waste, plastic bags, clothes, or batteries.

3. What should you do if you are not sure about an item?

Answer: Ask a grown-up first.