Below are some of our customers' most frequently asked questions. If you need more assistance, please email us at info@recycleannarbor.org or call us at (734) 662.6288.

1. What is RAA?
Recycle Ann Arbor (aka RAA) is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to providing education and innovative services in the collection, processing and distribution of recyclable materials. Nationally recognized as an established leader in recycling programs, RAA has been instrumental in diverting recyclable waste from landfills and reducing pressure on natural resources.

2. Is Recycle Ann Arbor part of the City of Ann Arbor and/or a City department?
No. RAA is an independent nonprofit organization that holds the curbside collections contract with the City of Ann Arbor.

3. Is Recycle Ann Arbor only in Ann Arbor?
No. Currently, RAA offers services throughout Washtenaw County, including the Drop-Off Station (located at 2950 East Ellsworth), the ReUse Center, the Environmental House (both located at 2420 South Industrial), Calvert's Roll-Off Containers (construction recycling), and several satellite drop off locations scattered throughout Washtenaw County. RAA also offers commercial collection services to businesses in the City of Ann Arbor.

4. What's the relationship between Recycle Ann Arbor and the Ecology Center?
The Ecology Center is the parent organization for RAA and works together with RAA to help RAA achieve its mission and goals.

5. I'm an Ann Arbor resident. Why do I have to pay to use the Drop-Off Station? Why am I charged for yard waste?
The Drop-Off Station is owned and operated by RAA with funding provided by Washtenaw County. To help offset rising costs to operate this facility, RAA established a fee structure, charging for only select items being dropped off. Some items remain free. For a complete list of what's accepted at the Drop-Off Station and their prices, click here.

6. How are the ReUse Center and Recycle Ann Arbor related?
RAA owns and operates the ReUse Center at 2420 South Industrial in Ann Arbor. For more information about the ReUse Center, click here.

7. What's accepted at the ReUse Center for donations?
RAA's ReUse Center accepts most resaleable reusable household goods, office supplies, furniture and building materials. Click here for more details.

8. What's accepted at the Drop-Off Station?
RAA's Drop Off Station is the area's most comprehensive recycling facility, accepting a wide variety of materials, including electronics, computers, and tires. Click here for more details.

9. What do I do when my recycling hasn't been picked up?
Call Recycle Ann Arbor at (734) 662-6288 to report the missed pick-up.

10. Where can I get recycling totes or bins?
Recycling bins can be picked up at Recycle Ann Arbor's office, located at 2420 South Industrial in Ann Arbor, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

11. I am a "super recycler" -- can I get a larger recycling bin?
If you regularly need to recycle more than your curbside bin will hold, you may purchase a "super recycler" cart from Recycle Ann Arbor. It's a one-time cost of $44, and the cart is yours to keep. There is no additional charge for recycling as much as the cart will hold. For more information, call RAA at (734) 662-6288.

12. Why can I only recycle No. 1 and No. 2 plastics at the curb? Why can't I recycle tubs, deli clamshells, and my other plastics?
All recyclable materials collected through the City of Ann Arbor's curbside recycling program must be accepted for processing at the City's Materials Recovery Facility. At present, only #1 and #2 plastic bottles are accepted for recycling. Click here for more details from the City of Ann Arbor on plastic recycling.

13. Why does the Drop Off Station only accept No. 1 and No. 2 plastics? Why can't I recycle tubs, deli clamshells, and my other plastics?
RAA can only accept recyclable materials that have a market value in order to keep costs down. Click here for more details.

14. Where do my recyclables go?
RAA takes great care to ensure that your recyclables are recycled in the most efficient manner possible. Click here for more details.

15. What is the Environmental House?
RAA operates the Environmental House at its 2420 South Industrial location. Click here for more details.

16. How do I get recycling in my neighborhood?
If you would like to get recycling in your neighborhood, contact RAA at (734) 662-6288 or e-mail info@reycleannarbor.org.

17. Does RAA have any job openings?
Check out our HR page by clicking here for more detailed information.

18. How do I volunteer and/or get involved?
RAA is always looking for volunteers to help out in a variety of areas. Click here for more details.

19. I live/work in Ann Arbor and my complex/business doesn't recycle. What services are available to me?
RAA operates a commercial recycling program that can develop recycling programs for apartment buildings, complexes, duplexes, and businesses within Washtenaw County. For more information, call (734) 662-6288 or e-mail info@reycleannarbor.org.

20. How big is your budget? Where do sales revenues go?
RAA currently operates with a $4.5 million annual budget. Sales generated through the ReUse Center, the Environmental House, the Drop Off Station and the Commercial Program are used to continue and grow our existing programs, continuing our dedication to recycling, reuse, and reduction.

21. Does RAA accept cash donations?
Yes! Cash donations are accepted at any time. Donations are tax deductible.