New standards mean Botetourt residents and businesses will have to start throwing away some plastics and pay closer attention to what they put in their recycling bins and bags.

Due to recent changes in the recycling market, higher standards have been implemented for recycling in the Roanoke Valley and New River Valley, according to an announcement last week by Recycling and Disposal Solutions (RDS) that accepts recyclables in the Roanoke and New River Valleys.

RDS operates recycling sites in Roanoke.

Recycling communities are being asked to keep contamination low so material collected can be recycled.

“Please don’t throw things like plastic bags, food waste and Styrofoam into your bin,” the announcement said. “It is important for recyclers to ensure collection containers hold only the items permitted for recycling. “

This includes things like glass containers, household paper (including newspaper and cardboard), aluminum beverage cans, and steel and tin food containers.

The new standards limit the recycling of plastic bottles to those labeled #1 (PET) or #2 (HDPE) only, so recyclers are asked to pay attention to this new practice.

By following these new standards, residents who recycle can help localities meet the criteria necessary to avoid tons of recyclables being rejected and sent to a landfill instead— a situation which impacts the tipping fees paid by local governments.

“Moving forward with a focus on reducing contamination of recycling and putting items into the recycle bin that can be recycled, the Roanoke Valley and New River Valley will be on stronger ground to sustain its commitment to environmental stewardship through effective recycling programs,” the announcement said.

Botetourt County officials had not been officially notified about the change announced by RDS, but noted the market for recyclables is getting tighter because companies that purchase plastics and other items want “cleaner” material.