Operations

Single Stream Recycling

Let's start with the basics

Q: What is single-stream recycling?
A: Single-stream isn’t anything fancy. It simply refers to a new system that takes the two recycling “streams” collected through the City of Green Bay curbside program — mixed paper (stream 1) and co-mingled containers (stream 2) — and puts them together in one bin. It is still important to follow the same guidelines as the current program, except you put the two streams together.

Q: Why are we moving to single-stream?
A: Using just one collection bin for all your recyclable items increases the ease and convenience of recycling. More people participate and more resources are saved.

Q: Won’t the paper get wet if I recycle my commingled containers with the paper? Doesn’t that make the paper non-recyclable?
A: The paper mills allow a small percentage of moisture in the paper they buy, so it’s not a problem. As always, we do ask that you rinse and empty all containers to keep food contamination out of your bin. But moisture will not ruin the paper. Part of the recycling process for remanufacturing paper includes water, so it is not a contaminant.

Q: When will the City start Single Stream Recycling?
A: The City will start collection of Single Stream Recycling on June 29, 2009

Q: Can I use the same bin I’ve been using?
A: Yes, you may use the same bin/container you have been using as long as at least one of the bins is City-issued. Similar size bins purchased from other locations (e.g. Menards, Fleet Farm etc.) can be used for overflow. In addition, to the 18-gallon bin, you will now have the option of purchasing a 65-gallon cart. The 65 gallon carts will be collected using automated trucks. Advantages of the cart are:

larger capacity to hold both streams (paper and co-mingled)
a lid to keep material dry and not blowing around
Paper and cardboard can be placed directly into the cart without bundling
One trip to the curb instead of many

Once again, the cart program is entirely voluntary. You may continue to use your existing City-issued bins if desired.

Q: How much will the cart cost?
A: $38.00

Q: How do I purchase a 65-gallon cart?
A: Only recycling carts purchased from the City of Green Bay will be emptied by the City of Green Bay. All carts will be delivered. At this time, customer pickup of carts is not available. The initial delivery of recycling carts will be during the week of June 15, 2009 for the east side and during the week of June 22 for the west side.

Carts can be ordered online, by mail, fax, or phone. Order Now>>

Q: When do I take the cart out?
A: Take your cart out on your normal recycle week. Keep in mind, all residents are supposed to place the trash and recycling out no sooner than 12 hours before the day of collection. City ordinance prohibits you from putting it out earlier. Also, please bring the carts, as well as your garbage cans and recycling bins, back in as soon as possible.

Q: Do I have to take the cart out every other week?
A: No, you do not have to take the cart out every other week. If it is only partially filled, you might want to keep it till the next scheduled pickup day. However, we will pick it up every other week even if it is only partially full, it’s up to you.

Q: Is there a proper way to put the cart at the curb?
A: Yes, the lid hinge should be on the side away from the curb in order for the "arm" of the truck to pick up and dump the cart properly. As always, you want to keep the cart at least five feet away from your trash so they are not mixed and the "arm" has room to grab the container. Please keep the cart away from hydrants, poles, trees or anything that could hinder the "arm" from grabbing the cart.

Q: What week is my recycling picked up?
A: Use the Recycling Calendar Link under Recycling at the top of this page.

Q: Where do I find more information on what I can recycle?
A: For further information on acceptable items you can refer to the Brown County Recycling information web page. This will take you off-site.

Q: Where is Public Works located?
A: We are located in downtown Green Bay in City Hall. Our address and telephone information:

Department of Public Works
100 North Jefferson Street
Suite 300
Green Bay WI 54301-5026
920. 448.3100
Hours and contact is available under the "Hours" tab at the top of this page.