Garbage & landfill

The city of Seattle prohibits recyclable or compostable material in the garbage.

What is acceptable

  • Clothing or textiles
  • Landfill waste from restrooms
  • Lab glass
  • Label sheets (adhesives)
  • Latex or plastic gloves
  • Cloth or surgical masks
  • Unapproved compostable serviceware
  • Treated biomedical waste
  • Non-recyclable materials; review procedures for particular items
  • Non-hazardous materials that are contaminated
  • Broken items (not from a lab) that are sharp or pointed; place pieces in a small box, label the box, seal it securely and place it next to your garbage container.
  • Waxed cardboard
  • Shredded paper
  • Facial tissues (Kleenex)

Note: cleanup and handling of improperly discarded materials will be the responsibility of the department.

Waste reduction tips

  • Buy food in bulk to avoid packaging.
  • Bring your own containers while shopping or going out to eat.
  • Buy solid or quality items to reduce your need to replace often.