Recycling: Seven takeout containers that don't belong in the blue bin.

A CNET piece reports that 'wish‑cycling'—placing doubtful items in recycling—disrupts processing plants, and that many takeout containers that look recyclable are not accepted by most facilities; a Republic Services sustainability ambassador offered guidance and noted local rules vary.

Many people put takeout containers into curbside recycling with good intentions, but that habit—often called wish‑cycling—can cause problems at processing facilities. The article explains that several types of food‑service packaging and containers that appear recyclable are frequently rejected by recycling systems. Jeremy Walters, a sustainability ambassador for Republic Services, provided guidance on common mistakes and what to check. The piece also notes that local programs differ, and some areas offer composting options for food‑coated paper. Key points: - "Wish‑cycling" (tossing questionable items into recycling) is reported to gum up processing operations. - Many takeout containers look recyclable but are not accepted by most recycling facilities. - Jeremy Walters of Republic Services is cited as offering practical guidance on food‑service packaging and common recycling mistakes. - Local recycling rules vary; the article recommends checking with local sanitation departments for specifics. - Some cities have curbside composting for food‑coated paper (Austin is given as an example), and a Chicago startup called Block Bins offers shared‑bin composting. Summary: The article describes how wish‑cycling and unclear labeling can contaminate recycling streams and complicate processing. It reports that experts advise following local facility rules and that availability of composting programs varies by community.