The Law: Under Vermont’s Universal Recycling Law, Plastic #1 (PET) and #2 (HDPE) containers are “mandated recyclables” and are BANNED FROM THE LANDFILL. It is mandatory for all residents and businesses to recycle these items.
🧴 What is Accepted?
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#1 (PET): Clear plastic bottles (soda, water, juice) and some clear food jars (peanut butter, salad dressing).
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#2 (HDPE): Opaque or colored plastic jugs (milk, detergent, shampoo) and some tubs (margarine, yogurt).
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Check Locally: While #1 and #2 are required everywhere, some SWAC transfer stations may accept additional plastic types. Please check with your transfer station attendant or look for updated signage at your local site to see what else they may collect.
🔧 Preparation Rules
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Empty & Rinse: Containers must be free of food residue. A quick rinse prevents odors and ensures the plastic can be recycled into new products.
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Caps ON: Screw plastic caps back onto their original bottles before recycling. Loose caps are too small for sorting machinery and will end up as trash.
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Size Matters: Items must be at least 2 inches in two directions to be caught by sorting equipment. Small items like medicine vials or loose bottle caps belong in the trash.
🚫 What is NOT Accepted?
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Plastic Bags & Film: Never put grocery bags or bubble wrap in the recycling bin. They tangle in the machinery. (These can often be returned to local grocery store collection bins).
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Black Plastic: Sorting lasers cannot “see” black plastic, so it is currently not recyclable in our system.
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Styrofoam (#6): This is not recyclable in Vermont and belongs in the trash.
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Hazardous Bottles: Containers that held motor oil, pesticides, or chemicals must be trashed (even if rinsed).
♻️ Looking for ways to cut back?
Recycling is a great start, but reducing your plastic usage at the source is even better for the environment!
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Get Inspired: Check out our SWAC Pinterest Page for lots of great ideas on how to reduce your plastic footprint, DIY alternatives, and upcycling projects!
