In 2014, The District did a "re-launch" of our recycling program with the addition of single stream recycling in Saint Paul, meaning all types of recyclable material such as plastic, paper, cardboard, and glass can all go in the single, same bin. Once SPPS recyclable materials arrive to the R&E center in Newport, there are various lasers and screens to sort each material into the proper stream, where the end material is processed and created into bales. These bales are then sold to be made into new materials.
Classroom recycling got an overhaul as well, swapping out the short blue recycling bins for tall, blue “slim jim” recycling containers and replacing the tall trash cans with short, gray trash cans. The idea is that more recycling should come out of classrooms (paper, bottles, cans) than trash, so the recycling bins are larger and taller. Classroom recycling is organized on an individual school basis with the coordination done by student groups and teachers working with their custodial staff.
How to: One of the largest problems of recycling is contamination. Deciphering what types of plastics and materials can be processed at the recycling center will help determine what goes in the bin. Minnesota recycles plastic types 1,2, and 5, this number is printed on all plastics marked by the catching arrows symbol and a number inside. Another way to prevent contamination is to flatten boxes, rinse and drain liquids, and making sure the item is bigger than your fist to avoid falling through the recycling conveyors. List of common acceptable/unacceptable recycling and organics items
