You should only recycle things if you can no longer reuse them and if you can't compost them. Recycling is important because objects like electronics, appliances, etc... are all made from valuable resources that can be used again. Recycling cuts down on the need for new raw materials which saves energy. Make sure you are recycling everything listed below.
Paper/cardboard
Aluminum/steel cans
Glass bottles
Plastics #1- #7 (some plastics can not be put in your curbside recycling, see "What should I do with...?")
Electronics
Appliances
Motor oil
Oil base paints
A more extensive list of what is banned from Wisconsin landfills can be found on the Wisconsin DNR website.