Ways to Recycle Your Aluminum Cans

Recycling aluminum cans is an important eco-friendly act that we all can partake in. It’s not just about conserving resources, it’s also about reducing energy usage. Recycling an aluminum can save enough energy to run a television for three hours or power a 14-watt CFL bulb for 20 hours. But the million-dollar question is, where can you recycle aluminum cans? If you’re pondering the same question, you’ve landed on the right article. Here, we will discuss several places where you can recycle your aluminum cans.

1. Local Recycling Centers

Your local recycling center is a great place to start. They accept a range of recyclable items, including aluminum cans. To locate your nearest recycling center, you can use online tools such as Earth911, which lets you search for recycling centers based on your zip code and the material you wish to recycle. Remember to rinse out your cans before dropping them off to prevent odors and contamination.

2. Curbside Recycling Programs

Most communities offer curbside recycling. Items to be recycled are placed in a bin and set out on the curb for collection. You can contact your local waste management office or check their website to determine whether they provide curbside recycling and what items they accept.

3. Deposit/Return Programs

In some states, you can return aluminum cans in exchange for money. These are known as ‘Bottle Bills,’ and currently, 10 states participate in these programs. Each state has its own rules and refund values, usually between 5 and 15 cents per can. This is also where a note counter machine comes into play, which can make counting large quantities of notes considerably more convenient.

4. Scrap Metal Dealers

Scrap metal dealers are often happy to buy aluminum cans. Prices fluctuate based on the market, but it’s usually worth around 40 to 50 cents per pound. Check the current prices before taking your cans to a dealer. This route can be especially profitable if you’ve collected a large number of cans.

5. Non-Profit Fundraisers

Certain organizations and schools conduct can-collection drives as fundraisers. Participating in these drives not only helps you recycle your aluminum cans but also supports a good cause.

6. Recycling Kiosks at Supermarkets

Some grocery stores have reverse vending machines where you can return aluminum cans and receive a voucher or cash. These machines are straightforward to use and are becoming increasingly popular in supermarkets across the US and the UK.

Conclusion

Aluminum cans are 100% recyclable, and the process of recycling them consumes 95% less energy than making new ones. So, by recycling your cans, you’re not only availing yourself of the many disposal locations available, but you’re also taking a step towards saving the planet.