Those visiting the City of Atmore’s recycling center may notice something a little different.

According to city officials, the bins have been redesigned with slots to feed waste materials into, which means that all cardboard, paper and plastic will have to be broken down or smashed to fit through the slots.

Mayor Jim Staff said he hopes everyone will be patient and continue their recycling efforts even though it may take a little longer to flatten your recyclables.

“The city’s participation by citizens and businesses has been outstanding,” he said.

According to WastePro, Atmore’s recycling removal provider, the reason for adding the slots are two fold: when the materials are broken down the bins don’t fill up as quickly.

Since recycling began in the city, it’s had problems with household garbage being put in the recycling receptacles. This contaminates the entire container, and none of its contents can be recycled, organizers said.

Additionally, the city is hoping to give residents the opportunity to recycle glass containers soon.