YOUR TOWN. YOUR RULES.
Emmet County
We’ve pawed our way through recycling bins all over the state, and we’ve learned that the rules of recycling differ from one community to the next. That’s why we’re here to talk to you about YOUR rules – the rules of recycling for residents of Emmet County. Reduce and reuse first, know it before you throw it when you recycle, and always reach out to Emmet County Recycling when you have questions.
Wondering what or where to recycle? Use the search options below or contact Emmet County Recycling for all questions.
Emmet County’s Essential Rules to Recycling Perfection
Not all plastics are created recyclable. Manufacturers make thousands of complex plastics formulated specifically for the exact requirements of a certain product. Unfortunately, this means that plastics formed into different kinds of items generally aren’t compatible for recycling together. The organizations Emmet County supplies can use only CONTAINER forms of plastic in their manufacturing processes. Find more information about recycling plastics at Emmet County Recycling.
Plastic bottles, jugs and containers are recyclable – always rinse, empty and put the lid/cap back on before recycling.
Plastic jugs and containers
Laundry detergent bottles
Milk jugs
Water bottles
Clean plastic takeout food containers
No plastic utensils, straws, toothbrushes
Containers need to be loose. We know it’s tempting to keep things orderly by putting your containers in plastic bags, but Emmet County asks you NOT to bag containers. Here’s why:
- Recyclables need to be kept loose for sorting at the facility.
- Bagged items often get thrown out since facilities can’t safely determine what’s inside without risk to their employees.
No recyclables in a plastic bag
Loose recyclables
You’re lucky. Emmet County is the only county in Michigan that allows plastic bags to be recycled curbside. So, relish in your privilege and stuff all of your plastic bags into a single plastic bag so they do not escape your bin and can be sorted efficiently. When we say “plastic bags,” what do we mean exactly? We mean flexible plastics like those shown below.
While plastic bags and shredded paper should be bagged, all other mixed containers should be kept left loose.
TIP: Reuse your smaller plastic bags as trash can liners or to pick up pet waste.
Plastic bags
Bread bags
Plastic sandwich baggies
Air pillows used in packaging
Plastic shipping envelopes
Bathroom tissue & paper towel wrapping
Why all the hoopla about recycling? Recycling offers countless benefits.
- Recycling reduces the amount of garbage that goes into landfills.
- Recycling is great for the economy – locally and statewide. It provides jobs and creates opportunities for businesses.
- Reusing materials we’ve already created helps conserve natural resources.
- Recycling reduces pollution, including greenhouse gases.
- Recycling helps protect our wildlife habitats.
Flattened cardboard
Metal cans of various sizes
Plastic jugs, containers and bottles
Office paper and folders
Newspapers
Junk mail
Keep up the good work,
Emmet County!
If you still have questions about what’s recyclable and what’s not, Emmet County Recycling can help.
Emmet County Recycling
200 Division St., G-76, Petoskey, MI 49770
231-348-0640
These rules apply to curbside recycling and drop-off programs in Emmet County. If you live outside this area, you’ll want to check with your local recycling provider for your specific rules and information.
