Don't be a "wishcycler." When in doubt, throw it out. Contamination reduces the value of recycling commodities and those costs are passed onto Mansfield taxpayers. The #1 contaminant is plastic bags. Never put plastic bags or any stretchy film in your recycling bin. Return these items to supermarkets or throw them in the trash.

Never throw old clothing or textiles in your trash or recycling bins. Instead, use the free pink bags from Simply Recycling or donate them to charity.

Did you know that approximately 35% of all trash in the U.S. is food waste? Start composting at home to reduce the amount of trash you generate while also getting nutrient-rich compost for your garden and plants!

The planet is awash in a tide of single-use plastic. Remote beaches in the middle of the ocean are buried in plastic.  Fish and sea birds are eating plastic, which means plastic is now part of the food chain. You can help by refusing single-use plastic bags, water bottles, straws, and other items. Pack a to-go bag with reusable items and keep it in your car at all times. 

Toxic chemicals, oil-based paint, pesticides and pharmaceuticals should never go in your trash or down the drain. Instead, save these items for Mansfield's Household Hazardous Waste Collection days. You can also drop off expired prescription drugs at the police station.

The Mansfield Green provides a convenient way to dispose of old appliances, cardboard, metal, used motor oil, and other hard-to-recycle items. You can also compost yard waste there. The Town of Mansfield also offers curbside pickup for used appliances for a fee.