Contact Us about Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Please review the below answers to some of the most common questions. If your question is not answered to your satisfaction, use the contact us box at the bottom of the page. We strive to respond to every question with a complete and timely answer.

A few helpful hints:  

• Are you a member of the media? Contact EPA’s Office of Media Relations at [email protected].  
• I am wondering where to recycle something. 
• Review frequently asked questions for specific programs or topics. 

Got Questions About…  

What You Can Recycle and Where.

• For information on how to recycle specific materials such as glass, cardboard, plastic film, electronics, batteries, etc., check out our How Do I Recycle?: Common Recyclables page and our Electronics Donation and Recycling page. 
• In the United States, states and localities make decisions about how municipal solid waste is managed. Contact your local recycling authority with your question.  

What Can Go in Your Recycling Bin.

• States and localities manage municipal solid waste, including recycling.  Contact your local or state waste authority, private waste hauler, building management, or homeowner's association for more information on what recycling options are available at your home or place of work. 

"National Recycling Strategy."

• In 2021, EPA launched the “National Recycling Strategy: Part One of a Series on Building a Circular Economy for All.”  
• The "National Recycling Strategy" is focused on enhancing and advancing the national municipal solid waste recycling system and identifies strategic objectives and organization-led actions to create a stronger, more resilient, and cost-effective domestic recycling system. 
• For more information, visit our "National Recycling Strategy" webpage.  

Starting a Recycling Program.

• EPA’s How to Start or Expand a Recycling Collection Program fact sheet.  

The Chasing Arrows Symbol.

• EPA does not regulate the use of the chasing arrows (or triangle) symbol on packaging. This symbol is found on the bottom of plastic jars, containers, and other packaging. It contains a number within it that indicates the type of plastic resin the product is made from. The chasing arrows symbol does not necessarily mean that a product is recyclable. Whether or not that type of plastic is accepted in your recycling program depends on your locality's rules. You can find more information on this subject, along with best recycling practices, the benefits of recycling, and more on EPA’s Reduce, Reuse, Recycle website. 

Manufacturers/Processors Non-Recyclable Packaging.

• EPA is having conversations at the national, regional, and state levels about our recycling system. In the United States, state and local governments determine approaches to waste management, including recycling. We encourage you to learn about waste management within your area and participate in any discussions and decision making about it.  

International Recycling Assistance.

• Many international initiatives support our waste management efforts. We encourage you to check out the resources on EPA’s Environmentally Sound Management of Waste: International Initiatives website. In particular, refer to the “Solid Waste Management Guide for Developing Countries” section. We hope these resources answer some of your questions or at least provide a starting point.  

Check Out Our Related FAQ Webpages:

• Circular Economy Strategy for All Series. 
• Facts and Figures about Materials, Waste and Recycling.
• Sustainable Management of Electronics.
• Sustainable Management of Food.
• Sustainable Management of Plastics.
• Waste Reduction Model for Tracking Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Associated with Waste Reduction.

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