Sustainability ambassador for Republic Services, Jeremy Walters, has shared his tips on how to recycle food-service packaging, bags, and containers at home. These mistakes often lead to a waste of valuable recyclables being sent to the landfill. The most important step is to identify which containers can and can't be recycled in your local area. Don't assume that a recycling symbol on it doesn't mean it can be recycled, as cheaper producers label items as recyclable even if they're not. For recycling takeout containers, ensure they are as clean as possible and give them a good rinse. The number of Styrofoam and Chinese containers and clamshells can also be recycled but they must be discarded. Not everything made from plastic is recyclatable, and the recycling of plastic utensils depends on your local facility.