Categories: Recycle

Where Can I Wednesday: Recycle & Get Rid of Phone Books?

Just like Marc Vetri, we’re frustrated by the Phone Books that end up on our Philadelphia stoops.

The good news is that (most) phone books are recyclable and can be placed in your single-stream recycling bin. (It’s even official on the Philadelphia Streets Recycle website!) 

We recommended to opt out of phone books by visiting the website Yellow Pages Opt-Out and adding your address. However, sometimes the phone books won’t listen to the 3rd party website opt-outs, so you can contact the publications individually to make sure your voice is heard.  The directories you may receive in Philly include:

If you want to reuse your old phone book before placing it in the recycle bin, TLC has 14 ideas for you.

Readers, do you have any creative uses for old phone books?

 

Photo: New Beford Guide

Julie Hancher

Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia.

Recent Posts

Enviro jobs & grants, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: Parks and Rec expands environmental stewardship program. Philadelphia…

2 days ago

Meet 6 people making Philly greener, one neighborhood at a time.

(and they're all SustainPHL nominees!) From storm drains in Germantown to community gardens in Kensington,…

3 days ago

Vacant lot greening, A challenge to the school board, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: Teens turn vacant lot into green space. Since…

1 week ago

The Philly Passive House: What does a home without fossil fuels look like?

Inside a Francisville Passive House project, Green Philly attendees saw how airtight construction, insulation, efficient…

1 week ago

New trash bill, utility assistance, National Estuaries Week, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: Council considers new bill for waste disposal contract.…

2 weeks ago

Announcing the SustainPHL 2026 Nominees

Meet the local leaders, organizations and changemakers shaping a more sustainable Philadelphia. Philadelphia has welcomed…

2 weeks ago