Are you recycling correctly? This new tool from Eau Claire County lets you know

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This new tool helps Wisconsinites determine what is recyclable and what is not.

Eau Claire County Recycling & Sustainability has partnered with Recycle Coach to launch a new search tool to help individuals understand if they are recycling correctly.

The “What Goes Where?” tool is a function on the Recycle Coach app. The tool allows you to learn about how to properly dispose of various items, and promotes the correct use of recycling.

According to The Recycling Partnership, in the US, about 25% of items placed in recycle bins are not recyclable, contaminating the items that can actually be recycled. These items often end up in landfills due to challenges in sorting.

Additionally, about 79% of recyclables are lost to landfills. Wisconsin had 717,000 tons of recyclable material lost in 2024.

Common items that end up in the recycling bin include plastic bags, food-soiled containers and packaging, and incorrectly placed plastics.

Contamination can have various effects, including increased costs of recyclables processing, degradation of recyclables and environmental impacts, according to the Waste and Resources Action Programme.

The “What Goes Where?” tool aims to combat these issues, informing users on the proper disposal methods for waste.

The app can be downloaded on the Apple App Store, Google Play, or you can visit their website for more information.