WM Now Accepts To-Go Cups in Curbside Recycling

Core Insights - WM has expanded its list of accepted recyclable materials to include polypropylene plastic cups and paper to-go cups, enhancing curbside recycling options for residents across the U.S. [3][4] Company Overview - WM, formerly known as Waste Management, is based in Houston, Texas, and is North America's leading provider of environmental solutions, offering collection, recycling, and disposal services to millions of customers in the U.S. and Canada [2][9]. Recycling Initiatives - The addition of plastic and paper cups aims to help municipalities and customers achieve new recycling designations, promoting greater recycling participation and awareness [4][7]. - Polypropylene cups are nearing qualification for a "Widely Recyclable" designation, which would allow over 60% of U.S. residents to recycle these cups curbside [5]. - Paper to-go cups are trending towards meeting the "Check Locally" designation, indicating that at least 20% of communities accept them in curbside recycling [5]. Investment in Infrastructure - WM is investing $1.4 billion in new recycling infrastructure across North America to enhance recycling capabilities and ensure more materials are processed into new products [6]. - The investment aims to make recycling more accessible for everyday plastic and paper cups, which are valuable recyclable materials [6]. Collaboration and Community Engagement - WM is collaborating with industry leaders, including Starbucks and The Recycling Partnership, to update recycling guidelines and improve community recycling programs [7]. - The company emphasizes the importance of collaboration among communities, industry leaders, and consumers to enhance recycling effectiveness [7].