The containers that collect mixed paper and mixed cans and bottles became more user-friendly with the addition of larger 28 inch-wide openings.  Inserting flattened cardboard boxes into the containers was also made easier with the addition of a 45 inch-wide slot. 

All of the containers were painted a brighter green.  New decals were designed to clearly communicate which materials are accepted in the recycling program and to instruct citizens on placement of the materials into the appropriate openings in the bins. 

CVWMA’s drop-off recycling centers collect a variety of materials, many of which do not have to be sorted. The large bins collect mixed paper and mixed food and beverage containers.  Paper items including mail, cardboard, computer and office paper, phone books, and cereal/dry food boxes can be recycled together.  Aluminum and steel cans, plastic bottles with a 1 or 2 on the bottom, and glass bottles and jars can be recycled together.  Magazines and catalogs have been combined with newspaper and should be recycled in the smaller collection bins.   

“We hope the changes will encourage more people to recycle.  Our goal is to make recycling as convenient as possible,” said  Bernie Harris, the Authority’s Director of Operations. 

More than 5,000 tons of material are collected annually at CVWMA’s forty-six recycling centers in central Virginia.   For more information about drop-off recycling, please visit the following pages: Locations.  Accepted items and preparation guidelines.  Information is also available by calling the Recycling Hotline at (804) 340-0900.