The molten glass is molded and blown into specific shapes and then cooled to make the container resistant to breakage. Glass has been recycled since the times of the earliest settlers and continues today. Glass bottles and jars are 100 percent recyclable and are a true symbol of recycling in that they can be made into new bottles and jars over and over again. Glass cullet melts at a lower temperature than raw material, so recycling glass saves energy as well as natural resources. Empty containers completely, rinse and drain.
Labels can remain on containers.
Even a small amount of contamination can ruin a whole truckload of glass bottles and jars unfit for recycling. When in doubt, ask. Any color in the rainbow can be produced and the color is burned off in the recycling process. Duncan Watson is the solid waste coordinator for the Keene Public Works Department.