About Recycling Services in Torrance, California

Recycling is a critical part of Torrance effort to reduce the need for incinerators and landfills. Using recycled materials to make new products saves energy and other natural resources, reduces greenhouse gases and industrial pollution, and decreases deforestation and damage to ecosystems.

Each community handles its recycling differently, but most offer a similar process of curbside pickup and drop-off centers. Many communities also have specific guidelines about what can and cannot be recycled. It is important to know what these rules are and to follow them, because contamination of recycling materials often results in them being sent to landfills instead of being recycled. This contamination can be caused by putting items that are not accepted, or by putting items in the wrong containers.

Paper makes up 23 percent of the waste generated in the United States each year, so it is vital to recycle as much as possible. Recycled paper is used to make new paper products, which helps conserve trees and other natural resources. When putting paper in your recycling bin, remember that it must be CLEAN and DRY. This means that it should not be placed in plastic bags, and that greasy pizza boxes are not recyclable (though they can be thrown out with the trash). Also, it is best to place paper in separate bins from other materials.

Aluminum foil and trays, metal caps and lids, metal cans (food and beverage), empty aerosol cans, and wire hangers can all be recycled. It is also possible to recycle metal furniture and appliances like pots and pans, lawnmowers, and irons, as well as aluminum siding and gutters. However, it is important to note that many scrap metals are toxic, and it is therefore important to dispose of them properly.

Most communities have special collections for hazardous waste. These include household chemicals, paints, pool chemicals, propane tanks, and stains/varnishes. Most community recycling programs will accept these items, but it is important to call or visit the website of your local program to learn what is acceptable in your area.

You can also drop off electronics that are no longer working, including computers and monitors, televisions, printers, and fax machines. This service is free of charge for Middlesex County residents.

You can also drop off batteries at a Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day. This is free of charge and is only open to Middlesex County residents. Rechargeable and button cell batteries are accepted, but alkaline batteries should be disposed of in the trash. Also, please remove all batteries from packaging before dropping them off. If you have any questions about what is or isn’t acceptable, contact the Middlesex County Division of Solid Waste Management for more information.