Not sure what you can and cannot recycle? Refer to our list down below. If there is an item that you don't see on the list that you are looking to recycle, use Recycle Racoon to learn more on how to properly dispose of it. To learn more about the NMU's campus recycling practices, click here.

Have more recycling related questions? Contact: Grace Listopad, Director of EcoReps, glistopa@nmu.edu.

Common Recyclables

  • All Rigid Plastics (#1,#2,#3,#4,#5,#6)
  • Bottles (leave lids on)
  • Cups
  • Plastic To-Go Containers (must be clean)
  • Drink Lids (must have recycling sign)
  • All Metal (Cans, Clean Aluminum Foil*)
  • Cardboard - Please break down boxes, clean pizza boxes allowed (no grease)
  • Paper (including shredded paper if placed into a paper bag and stapled shut)

*Aluminum Foil must at least be the size of a golf ball

Unique Recyclables

  • Electronic Waste
  • Batteries*
  • Medications
  • Bathroom Supplies (Razors, Toothbrushes, Toothpaste, Deodorant)
  • Contacts
  • Sauce Containers
  • Instrument Strings
  • Socks
  • Plastic Bags and Flexible Plastics
  • Glass** 

*Battery drop-offs are located in various spots throughout Campus

**Glass drop-off available located at 100 Wright Street, across from the National Guard

Learn Where to Recycle These Items

Non-Recyclables

  • Needles
  • Napkins/Paper towels
  • Styrofoam
  • Coated Cardboard (ex. Orange Juice Containers)
  • Cords
  • Lightbulbs
  • Liquids/Ice
  • E-Cigarettes and Vape pens