Malden Recycling Vendor To Crack Down On Materials

MALDEN, MA — Malden's recycling vendor, JRM, will start strictly enforcing current recycling requirements April 6, the city said this week. The hauler will no longer pick up bins with improper recycling materials inside.

"JRM recently brought to our attention that after they collect Malden’s recycling and process it at the recycling processing facility, the majority of the content ends up being disqualified and sent into the waste stream as trash," city officials said. "This is not only harmful to the environment but is also in violation of our contract with JRM."

Examples of unacceptable items include unclean pizza boxes, napkins, tissues, toilet paper, soiled paper wrappers, plastic bags, plastic wrap, newspaper sleeves, and plastic film. Styrofoam, window glass or mirrors, lightbulbs and ceramics also will not be accepted.

The problem is not restricted to Malden, as many communities across the state face the same challenges, according to JRM. The city will host an educational forum Wednesday, March 18 at 6 p.m. at the Linden STEAM Academy Auditorium, 29 Wescott St.

The meeting will discuss how to properly recycle to avoid having your bins left curbside starting next month. The solid waste overhaul proposal recently submitted to the City Council will be addressed at a series of separate public meetings, according to the city.