With Christmas just two days away, blue boxes and garbage bins will soon be piled high with extra waste.
That has prompted the City of London to issue a reminder about what can be recycled and what should be tossed in the trash.
All wrapping paper and gift bags belong in the garbage, according to city officials. These items are typically coated with plastic or foil and contain coloured dyes which are not recyclable.
Other items bound for the trash include ribbons and bows, clementine boxes, styrofoam and bubble wrap, and plastic toys. Dirty paper plates and paper napkins also belong in the garbage.
Cardboard boxes can be placed in the blue box, but need to be broken down and bundled in order to save space on recycling trucks.
"When you take the time to sort your recyclables into 'paper' and 'containers,' it reduces the city's sorting costs and makes sure the end markets will accept the materials," the city said in a statement.
Londoners are also advised to download the Recycle Coach app, which can help to determine what can be recycled and what can't. Information on London’s recycling program and collection reminders can all be accessed through the app.
