Created by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP), Recycle Smart MA is a statewide initiative to help residents know exactly what belongs in their curbside recycling bins—and what doesn’t. With different towns having slightly different rules, this site offers a unified, reliable resource for everyone in the state.
The heart of the website is the Recyclopedia, an interactive search tool that lets you type in any item and find out if it’s recyclable. Wondering if you can toss in a pizza box, plastic bag, or lightbulb? Just ask the Recyclopedia.
You’ll also find:
The Smart Recycling Guide – a simple, visual breakdown of what goes in and what stays out.
Beyond the Bin Directory – a statewide listing of where to donate or recycle items like clothing, electronics, and furniture that can’t go in the bin.
Multilingual Support – helpful for Massachusetts’ diverse communities.
Using RecycleSmartMA.org is simple:
Bookmark the site on your phone or browser.
Use the Recyclopedia when in doubt.
Share the guide with neighbors, family, and friends.
Sign up for their newsletter to stay informed on updates and seasonal recycling tips.
We all want to do our part—but sometimes, it’s hard to know how. Recycle Smart MA makes it easy. By using this resource, Massachusetts residents can keep recycling streams clean, protect the environment, and make sure our efforts actually make a difference.
Visit RecycleSmartMA.org today and start recycling smarter.