Western Washtenaw Recycling Authority (WWRA)

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YOUR TOWN. YOUR RULES.

Western Washtenaw Recycling Authority (WWRA)

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 WWRA residents (Dexter Township, City of Chelsea, Lima Township, Lyndon Township, Manchester Township and Bridgewater Township). Reduce and reuse first, know it before you throw it when you recycle, and always reach out to WWRA when you have questions.


Wondering where to recycle? Use the search option below or contact WWRA for questions.

Know Where to recycle

WWRA’s Essential Rules to Recycling Perfection


The plastic bags and flexible plastics shown below are recyclable locally though – many grocery stores accept clean and dry bags and wraps.

What’s NEVER recyclable are things like potato chip bags and frozen food bags – just throw those out. They often contain multiple types and layers of plastic, making them impossible to recycle.

TIP: Reuse your smaller plastic bags as trash can liners or to pick up pet waste.

No plastic bags

No bread bags

No plastic sandwich baggies

No air pillows used in packaging

No plastic shipping envelopes

No bathroom tissue & paper towel wrapping


All recyclables need to be loose. We know it’s tempting to keep things orderly by putting all your recyclables in plastic (or paper) bags – but it’s a bad idea. Here’s why:

  • Recyclables need to be 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


Food boxes, shoeboxes, tissue boxes and your typical shipping boxes are all recyclable, and it’s fine if you leave on the tape and labels. Please break down and flatten all boxes before recycling.

There are a few cardboard noes though. A good rule to follow is this: If the cardboard container goes into the freezer, it’s best to just throw it away. Those boxes are usually covered in a thin layer of plastic to prevent them from getting soggy.

Additionally, cardboard can’t have any food residue or grease stains – a greasy pizza box is not recyclable, but you can always rip off the clean top of the box and recycle that.

Cereal boxes

Shipping boxes

Tissue boxes

No greasy pizza boxes


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, Washtenaw County!

If you still have questions about what’s recyclable and what’s not, WWRA can help.


Western Washtenaw Recycling Authority
8025 Werkner Rd.
Chelsea, MI 48118
(734) 475-6160

These rules apply to the WWRA curbside (City of Chelsea only) and drop-off recycling programs. If you live outside this service area, you’ll want to check with your local recycling provider for your specific rules and information.

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