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How to start sorting waste?

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Find Convenient Collection Points
Locate collection points on the map that are convenient for you: near your home, on your way to school or work, or close to frequently visited places like a store or park.

2. Learn About Accepted Materials and Rules
Familiarize yourself with what materials these collection points accept, their operating hours, and any specific rules for dropping off items.

3. Choose a Starting Material
Decide which type of recyclable material you are ready to start with from the ones accepted at the collection point.

4. Collect and Drop Off
Gather a manageable amount of the chosen material and take it to the collection point.

5. Expand Gradually
Continue collecting this type of material and, over time, add other types of recyclables that are accepted in your area.

Types of Collection Points

1. Street Containers and Nets
These are outdoor containers or nets specifically marked for collecting recyclables or certain fractions.

2. Eco-Points and Eco-Centers
These facilities operate autonomously or with staff according to a schedule and accept a wide range of recyclable materials.

3. Special Boxes in Stores
Stores often have dedicated boxes for items like textiles, light bulbs, batteries, and other recyclables. Be sure to check the list of accepted materials beforehand.

4. Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs)
RVMs typically accept PET bottles and aluminum cans, but some also take paper and cardboard.

Rules for Recycling

Cleanliness and Compactness
• Cleanliness: Ensure items are free from food residues, as people will handle these materials later. Clean items also reduce odors and attract fewer animals.
• Compactness: Flatten cardboard boxes, compress plastic bottles, and crush aluminum cans (unless using an RVM, which often requires uncrushed items with barcodes). This saves space in your home and in collection containers, reducing the frequency of waste transport.

What to Start With?

To simplify the process of sorting waste, here’s an overview of common recyclable materials.
We recommend starting with paper/cardboard, plastic bottles, or batteries, as these are widely accepted in most Russian cities:
Paper/Cardboard (Maculature) - Easily compacted into bundles or placed in bags/boxes.
Avoid including:
• Juice/milk cartons (tetra packs)
• Paper cups/disposable tableware
• Receipts
• Laminated paper
PET Bottles - Includes plastic bottles from beverages or cleaning products.
Steps:
• Empty the contents.
• Compress the bottle.
• Leave caps, rings, and labels intact unless otherwise specified.
• Rinse if they contained greasy substances (mandatory in some cases).
Batteries and Accumulators
• These accumulate slowly but are hazardous waste.
• Store them in a safe place away from children and recycle them a couple of times a year.

By starting small and gradually expanding your recycling efforts, you can make a significant contribution to environmental sustainability! 🌍