Paper cups are now accepted for curbside recycling in Tompkins County after the guidelines were updated. The new guidelines were put into effect starting July 1. The Tompkins County Department of Recycling and Materials Management released its 2026-2027 curbside recycling guide, which includes updated instructions and a 12-month recycling collection calendar. The guide also promotes sustainable education by sharing other ways that the community can reduce, reuse, recycle and rethink waste, including food scraps recycling opportunities.
Prior to this update, paper cups were excluded from recycling because the thin plastic lining that is added to the cup to prevent leaks was difficult to separate from the paper. However, a technology advancement makes the removal of the lining possible, so the paper fiber can be recovered. The paper cups will be processed along with mixed paper and then recycled into something new.
The guidelines state that the paper cups must be empty when recycled, straws and lids must be removed, and styrofoam is not accepted. According to the press release from the Tompkins County Department of Recycling and Materials Management, most paper beverage cups meet the criteria, including cups used for fountain drinks or hot beverages.