To encourage waste reduction and recycling, Massport has implemented a wide variety of initiatives. Examples of these initiatives are described below.
Single-Stream Recycling
Since 2013, Massport has been implementing its single-stream recycling program at Boston Logan and all other Massport facilities. Single-stream recycling means that all recyclable materials are collected in the container and are later sorted at recycling facilities. This makes it easier for people to participate in and can help divert more materials from landfill. Please help Massport to recycle responsibly and learn more about what can and cannot be recycled in stream recycling bins at the airport.
These items CAN be recycled in single-stream bins:
- PAPER AND CARDBOARD – Mixed Paper, Newspaper, Magazines, Boxes (empty and flatten)
- PLASTIC - Bottles, Jars, Jugs, and Tubs (empty and replace cap)
- METAL / ALUMINUM- Food and Beverage Cans (empty and rinse)
- GLASS – Bottles and Jars (empty and rinse)
These items CANNOT be recycled in single-stream bins:
- NO FOOD OR LIQUIDS
- NO PLASTIC BAGS OR WRAP
- NO LATEX GLOVES OR MEDICAL MASKS
- NO STYROFOAM
- NO PAPER TOWELS, NAPKINS, TISSUES
- NO CLOTHING / TEXTILES
- NO FOOD WRAPPERS
- NO PLASTIC STRAWS
- NO WAXED CARTONS
Recycling contamination happens when incorrect items are placed into single-stream recycling bins. Many items you might think belong in the recycling bin don’t. Putting them in does more harm than good. Please be sure to know the dos and don’ts of recycling at Massport, and help us recycle responsibly! If you are unsure if an item is recyclable, please throw it in the trash, or use Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) Recycle Smart tool.
In addition to single-stream, Massport has programs to recycle and beneficially reuse other materials, such as food/organic waste, construction and demolition materials, scrap metal, used cooking oil, wooden pallets, batteries, electronic waste (e-waste), and more.
Hydration Stations
Reuse and refill your water bottle at one of the more than 40 water filling stations (also known as hydration stations) located in all terminals. Hydration stations provide free, clean drinking water to travelers and helps to reduce the amount of single-use plastic bottles in the waste stream. Massport has made it a standard practice to continue installing these stations as we renovate and upgrade buildings. Find the station closest to you on our Interactive Map.
Liquid Collection Stations
There are 16 liquid collection units located throughout Boston Logan terminals at security checkpoints. Before entering a security checkpoint, travelers can empty beverages into these bins. After going through security, travelers can reuse their bottles and refill at hydration stations. This helps to reduce waste and promote sustainable choices. In addition, diverting liquids from the waste stream helps to improve recycling by reducing liquid contamination.