Online Service Helps Manage Waste, Recycling During Holidays

Online Service Helps Manage Waste, Recycling During Holidays

Published on December 19, 2025

Lincoln Transportation and Utilities (LTU) Waste Management Division today reminded residents to manage their waste and recycling this holiday season by using the free "What Bin Does It Go In?" online service at lincoln.ne.gov/recycle.

Residents may enter items in a search field to determine if they are reusable, recyclable, or hazardous, how they may be disposed, and if a disposal fee or restriction is required.

"Common questions our Solid Waste Management team receives over the holidays include how to recycle items like stringed lights, bows, bubble wrap, old toys, appliances and electronics," said Willa DiCostanzo, Waste Diversion Coordinator. "This online tool helps residents easily determine how to properly dispose or recycle waste items."

Because large amounts of recyclable materials are generated during the holidays, LTU reminds residents to avoid "wishcycling," which is assuming non-recyclable items will be recycled simply because they have been diverted from the trash bin. Additionally, nonrecyclable items such as plastic bags damage the machines used to process recyclables, contaminate other recyclables, and can endanger workers who must enter machinery to remove tangled materials.

"Batteries are another example of a dangerous item that does not belong in the recycling or trash bin. Our online tool will guide you to locations that accept batteries for proper disposal," DiCostanzo said.

Solid Waste Management recommends the best time for recyclers to drop off recycling at City recyclables collection sites is during weekdays several days after the holidays. Leaving material outside of the bins is considered illegal dumping and can be prosecuted.

Reducing, reusing and recycling helps save natural resources, lowers greenhouse gas emissions, preserves animal habitat, and redirects useful materials out of the landfill. LTU offers these reduce, reuse and recycling tips:

• Keep batteries out of the bins and take them to a proper battery disposal location.
• Reuse, donate or landfill holiday bows, ribbons, and decorations. They are not recyclable and do not belong in the bin.
• Recycle plain wrapping paper. Wrapping paper with glitter or lamination is not recyclable.
• Break down cardboard boxes and lay flat in recycling containers to save room for more materials.
• Purchase items in bulk to avoid unnecessary packaging.
• Reduce consumption of nonessential or single-use products.
• Consider adding other reusable items into your daily routine such as water bottles, coffee mugs, utensils and shopping bags.
• Consider purchasing used items instead of new. Many used stores or marketplaces have clothing, books, toys and appliances that cost less money and are the same quality.

For more information on City recycling, visit lincoln.ne.gov/recycle. For information on curbside recycling, contact your local refuse hauler.