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Non-Recyclable Materials

106,568 tons of non-recyclable materials were disposed of at the landfill in 2006

KC Waste Stream What's in your garbage? Seventy-five percent of materials thrown away are resources – not waste.

Garbage today. What will it be in the future?

Some materials are not readily recyclable and are appropriate for disposal today. But with research and advancements in technology they could become resources tomorrow.

• Non–recyclable paper – photographic film, microwave containers, hardcover books, frozen food boxes, foil gift wrap, thermal fax paper, carbon paper, blueprints, aluminum foil boxes and binders.
• Treated or contaminated wood - wood treated with preservatives or attached to other materials like sheetrock or window glass
• Non–recyclable plastic consumer items - some food storage containers, dishware, vinyl, toys, Formica™, fiberglass, foam materials, and plastics attached to other materials such as kitchenware or auto parts
• Non–recyclable glass – window glass, mirrors, light bulbs, and cookware
• Other waste – ashes, soil, dirt, furniture, mattresses, and insulation

For now, it’s important to buy carefully, use and reuse, and find ways to reduce waste wherever possible.

See What Happens to Your Recyclables in this 10 minute video (Please choose your preferred video format) :

• Windows Media variable speed format (Windows Media Player required - free download available)
• Real Media variable speed format (RealPlayer required - free download available)

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