Baltimore launches ‘oops’ tag recycling initiative

The Baltimore Department of Public Works (DPW) has announced its new “oops” tag recycling initiative, a citywide program designed to reduce contamination in recycling bins, improve recycling efficiency and strengthen Baltimore’s environmental sustainability efforts. 

The department says confusion about what can and cannot be recycled has led to increased contamination in the city’s recycling stream. When nonrecyclable items or food residue are placed in recycling bins, entire truckloads of materials can become unusable, increasing processing costs and reducing the effectiveness of Baltimore’s recycling program. 

To address this challenge, DPW is placing "oops” tags on recycling bins found to contain incorrect or nonrecyclable items. Each tag identifies the contamination issue and provides guidance on how to properly recycle moving forward. When a bin receives an "oops” tag, residents will be asked to remove the incorrect items before their recycling is collected on the next scheduled pickup day. 

“Baltimore is committed to leading by example in recycling and environmental sustainability,” Baltimore DPW Director Matthew Garbark says. “The oops tag recycling initiative strengthens our recycling program, reduces contamination and helps ensure city resources are used effectively. By working together, residents can make Baltimore a cleaner, more sustainable city for generations to come.” 

The department says common contaminants in Baltimore include plastic bags, packaging film, batteries, tangling items such as hoses and wires, textiles and clothing and construction and demolition debris. 

Food residue on containers is also a source of contamination. When recyclables are not properly cleaned, materials such as paper and cardboard can be sent to disposal instead of being reused. 

Baltimore DPW reminds residents that acceptable curbside recycling items include clean paper and cardboard, metal cans, plastic bottles and containers and glass bottles and jars. All items should be empty, clean and dry before being placed in the blue recycling bin. 

For materials that are not acceptable at the curb, the department encourages residents to check the closest residential recycling center. DPW accepts a variety of materials at the centers, including mattresses, textiles, electronics, food scraps and more.