Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

We get it, recycling can be confusing.

We understand that navigating the world of recycling can be confusing at times, so we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help determine which items are accepted at our depot.

Below, you’ll find answers to common questions about our services, accepted materials, and more. If you have a question that isn’t covered here, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly.

Thank you for doing your part to protect our environment!

What do I do with rusted cans of household paint or paint cans that can't be sealed with their lids?

These items must be brought to the Landfill - we recommend that these items be bagged as requested by the Landfill staff.

Where should we take hazardous household materials such as gasoline, flammable liquids, and oil?

Household hazardous waste such as Gasoline and Flammable Liquids can be taken to Do Your Part in Terrace. Motor Oil can be taken to either Snow Valley Ford or Kal-Tire.

What can I do with greasy pizza boxes?

Greasy pizza boxes and other food-soiled cardboard/paper containers can be composted in your green food waste bin and will be picked up by curbside recycling.

Why aren’t books recyclable? Where can they go?

The thread and glue in the binding of books contaminates paper during the recycling process. Books can be donated to second hand stores or the hospital.

Why can't KUTE accept water-logged cardboard?

Water-logged cardboard can crumble apart during the recycling process making it very difficult to handle and work with. If possible, wait for damp cardboard to dry out before recycling it - otherwise, it must be disposed of in the trash or composted.

Why don't you accept packing peanuts? What do I do with them?

We do not accept packing peanuts or any other types of squishy foam packaging (such as pool noodles, pillows, or mattress toppers). Most packing peanuts are made of cornstarch & all squishy foams are incompatible with the current recycling processes available in BC. At this time, we encourage you to reuse any packing peanuts you have & whenever you can, please choose alternative options (such as newspaper) for safely packaging items.

Is wrapping paper recyclable? What kinds of gift wrap can you accept?

Many gift wrap options contain a mix of materials that we are not able to separate & recycle. An example of this would be wrapping paper with a plastic lining. Single-material options, such as Kraft paper gift wrap or flexible plastic gift bags are recyclable. A good rule of thumb is if you can't separate the gift wrap into its recyclable components at home, it's likely not a recyclable material. Whenever possible, please choose single-material, recyclable, gift wrap options. Textiles, such as ribbons or bows, are not recyclable.