Can You Recycle Broken Glass? A Guide to Waste Reduction and Safe Disposal

ReGenesis Materials
May 27
3 min read

Broken glass isn't just a safety hazard—it’s a challenge for effective waste recycling. Whether it's a shattered wine glass, broken windowpane, or cracked mirror, knowing where and how to dispose of it can help with waste reduction and keep your local recycling center running efficiently. If you’re in New Jersey, understanding your municipality’s policy is essential for responsible waste disposal.

Multiple hands carefully sort a spectrum of recyclable materials against a pristine white background. Glass bottles in vibrant greens, blues, and clear tones create a stunning rainbow effect alongside silver aluminum cans.

What Types of Broken Glass Can Be Recycled?

Not all glass is created equal. Packaging glass—like bottles and jars—differs from tempered or treated glass used in windows, dishware, or electronics.

✅ Recyclable Broken Glass (in some curbside or drop-off programs):

Glass bottles (clear, green, brown)
Food jars

These are usually made from soda-lime glass, which most recycling stations and waste centers in New Jersey accept, even when chipped or cracked.

❌ Non-Recyclable Broken Glass:

Windows and mirrors
Ceramic dishware, Pyrex
Drinking glasses
Light bulbs
Auto glass
Decorative or stained glass

These types have different melting points and chemical properties that interfere with the glass recycling process.

Why Broken Glass Is Tricky for Recycling Facilities

Even when made of recyclable material, broken glass creates major challenges for waste and recycling programs:

Worker injury risk during sorting
Contaminating clean loads of recycled materials
Disruptions to sorting and processing equipment

Many municipal programs require glass to be whole and sorted by color. Broken glass often gets rerouted to landfills if not handled correctly.

Safe and Responsible Ways to Dispose of Broken Glass

1. Check Local Guidelines

New Jersey municipalities vary in how they handle broken glass. Some allow it at the curb if it's container glass and packed securely; others don't accept it at all.

2. Use a Local Recycling Center or Drop-Off Point

Several recycling centers near you may accept container glass, even if broken. Examples include:

ReGenesis Materials (Camden, NJ)

3. Safely Trash Non-Recyclable Glass

For non-recyclable items:

Wrap pieces in multiple layers of newspaper or place them in a small box
Clearly label as "Broken Glass"

Dispose of in your regular trash—never place loose pieces in blue recycle bins or recycle trash cans.

Reduce Waste: Reuse and Smart Alternatives

Recycling should be the last resort—here’s how to cut down on glass waste:

Choose durable containers like BPA-free plastic or stainless steel
Repurpose jars as storage or decor
Repair windows when possible instead of replacing

Donate unbroken dishware to a waste center or charity.

FAQs About Broken Glass Recycling

Can I recycle broken wine glasses?

No. These often contain lead or are made of crystal, which isn’t accepted in standard recycling stations.

What about a shattered mirror?

Not recyclable. Wrap it carefully, label it, and put it in the trash.

Are broken Christmas ornaments recyclable?

Usually not. Coatings and paint make them unsuitable for recycling.

Glass Recycling in New Jersey: Local Differences

City/Town	Curbside Glass?	Broken Glass?	Notes
Newark	Yes	No	Must be intact and placed in the bin
Jersey City	Yes	No	Wrap broken pieces for trash
Princeton	Drop-off only	Yes (bottles/jars)	Only container glass is accepted
Cherry Hill	Yes	No	Broken glass must go in the trash

For cardboard disposal near me, recycling material options, or styrofoam recycling, visit your local waste and recycling program’s site.

Think Before You Toss

The right way to handle broken glass depends on its type and your town’s guidelines. When in doubt, consult your local recycling center. Making the effort helps protect workers, reduce contamination, and cut down on landfill waste. For residents of New Jersey, these small steps contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

🌿 About ReGenesis Materials

As a Class A recycling facility based in Voorhees, NJ, ReGenesis Materials processes high-volume recyclables like cardboard, aluminum, paper, plastic, and glass. We partner with municipalities, haulers, and businesses to ensure material recovery is clean, compliant, and sustainable.

Interested in a recycling partnership or educational outreach? Contact us today to schedule a site tour or set up a program for your building, office park, or community.