So much is being done across the country to help spruce up our environment. Recycling has picked up over the past several decades and continues to build traction in every state thanks to recycling initiatives, legislation, and the efforts of nonprofit organizations.
\n\nAccording to the EPA, the national recycling rate has increased from about 10% in 1985 to about 35% in 2012. It has steadily increased year after year due to advancements in recycling technology and the realization that recycling has a major economic impact. Oh…not to mention the huge environmental benefit!
\n\nA good way to quickly dispose of heavy or bulky waste in a way that is environmentally responsible is through the use of a dumpster.
\n\nDepending on the type of waste processing facilities near you, you may be able to save money (and the environment) by 'clean' loading your dumpster with only one type of debris, such as asphalt roofing shingles, concrete, or drywall.
\n\nLearn more about dumpster rentals:
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\nAccording to Keep America Beautiful (KAB), if all the recyclables in the U.S. waste stream were recycled, it would inject $7 billion of revenue into the U.S. economy. Additionally, the EPA states that for every 5 tons of waste sent to landfills, just one job is created. On the other hand, for every 5 tons of waste recycled or reused, up to 85 jobs are created. Numbers don’t lie—Recycling is great for the economy.
The comprehensive state-by-state directory of recycling organizations listed below includes companies largely responsible for why recycling is thriving in America. It’s because of these organizations that curbside recycling services are on the rise in communities across the country, recycling drop-off points are common around municipalities in every state, and landfills are being closed and replaced with waste-to-energy plants or recycling facilities.
\n\nFind your state and see what recycling initiatives are helping to shape your community’s future. You can also find out how to become a member or donate to these statewide recycling organizations.
\n\nThe American Environmental Council (AEC) operates the oldest recycling center in Alabama located at 2431 2nd Avenue North in Birmingham. Its Recycle Alabama campaign has helped boost recycling rates in Jefferson County and across the state through education and advertising. The AEC also works to promote the use of renewable energy and to clean up the air and water of Alabama.
\n\nThe ARC is a statewide, non-profit organization bringing together industry, governments, NPOs and individuals with an interest in sustainable solid waste management. The ARC has played an integral role in helping to bring 1,400 new recycling-related jobs to the State in 2013 alone. This figure will only increase as recycling initiatives expand throughout the State.
\n\nALPAR strives to keep Alaska free and clear of pollution and litter. It has partnered with several of the biggest recycling facilities across the state to help promote recycling. The goal is to keep Alaska’s beautiful wilderness as scenic today as it was centuries ago. ALPAR recognizes individuals and organizations who demonstrate outstanding achievements in recycling and/or litter prevention in their community at its annual awards banquet.
\n\nGreen Star is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating Alaskans about recycling and waste reduction. It recently opened the Electronics Recycling Depot in Fairbanks, which was the first of its kind in the area. E-waste is one of the fastest growing segments of waste in need of proper recycling. IAGS honors business and organizations that are helping to promote recycling and sustainability with its Green Star Award Program.
\n\nThe Arizona Recycling Coalition (AZRC) is the State’s premier recycling advocate. It provides valuable resources for businesses and individuals living in Arizona looking to increase recycling rates. The AZRC offers a recycling award program recognizing leaders in the recycling industry, as well as promotes recycling initiatives statewide and offers links to grant programs related to recycling.
\n\nSince 1989, the Arkansas Recycling Coalition (ARC) has educated Arkansas-based businesses, nonprofits, government organizations and individuals about how to recycle, where to recycle and how to boost recycling rates. Its annual recycling conference and trade show brings together leaders in the industry to help push recycling efforts forward across the state. The ARC awards program recognizes organizations and individuals making a positive impact on the environment in Arkansas.
\n\nThe Keep Arkansas Beautiful (KAB) campaign has helped vastly increase recycling rates statewide. In 2012, the state’s recycling rate topped 40%, which is above the national average. KAB has partnered with EcoPhones to allow Arkansas schools or community organizations to earn money by recycling cellphones properly. It also introduced a Cars to Donate program for responsibly disposing of junk cars. Its website also features a wide selection of educational materials to help promote recycling in Arkansas. Help keep Arkansas beautiful by volunteering with KAB.
\n\nThe Northern California Recycling Association (NCRA) promotes recycling initiatives throughout the State of California, but focuses primarily on Northern California. It educates the public and organizations about recycling, offering classes that can help you begin a career in the booming California recycling industry. The NCRA has achieved many accomplishments over the years, including helping to write and pass the Alameda County Measure D Landfill charge, and speak in front of Congress and the Supreme Court of California in regards to environmental issues.
\n\nThe CRRA is the oldest and one of the biggest nonprofit recycling organizations in the country. Its primary goal is to help California achieve zero waste status through recycling, reusing, composting and other green practices. It hosts an annual conference and trade show to help raise awareness about recycling and to further green technologies.
\n\nThe ACRI is a nonprofit organization focused on protecting the rights of California-based recycling facilities. Its goal is to maintain a free market amongst recyclers across the state. The ACRI tackles legislative issues relating to recycling laws, offers workshops to educate the public, and runs a scholarship program for students.
\n\nCAW is a nonprofit institution that strives to make recycling available to all Californians. Much of its values and goals were adopted by CalRecycle several years ago and put into the landmark California goal of achieving a 75% recycling rate by 2020. The CAW has also been involved in multiple other legislative actions designed to promote recycling in the state.
\n\nACWA’s members are responsible for about 90% of the water delivered in California. Its goal is to make water a more sustainable resource in the state through water recycling technology and water reduction. ACWA is involved in legislation and regulatory actions related to water conservation in the State of California.
\n\nThe CAFR actively seeks to support recycling and waste diversion initiatives throughout the State of Colorado. It hosts events, educates the communities, offers recycling grant programs and is backed by some of the biggest waste hauling companies in Colorado (e.g., Waste Management).
\n\nThe CRC has provided community lectures, legislative support for the recycling industry in CT, and educational materials to businesses and residences since 1989. It has helped shape the way Connecticut handles its waste, including recycling services and waste diversion. Today, recycling in the State is mandatory.
\n\nThe COWRA is dedicated to preserving Connecticut’s water resources, including proper handling of wastewater and water recycling. It has helped shape the rules and regulations in place today regarding wastewater recycling and sewer water treatment processes.
\n\nThe DWHS is in charge of Delaware’s waste and recycling programs statewide. It has passed legislation mandating that all commercial businesses recycle (as of 2014), and it has a goal of recycling 50% of all waste generated in the state by 2015. It offers a wide range of educational materials to help the citizens of Delaware increase recycling rates at home and in the workplace.
\n\nRecycle Florida Today (RFT) takes a proactive approach to boosting recycling rates and overall sustainability in the State of Florida. It keeps the public informed of recycling legislation and laws pertaining to recycling in the State. It also hosts an annual conference to help bring together leaders in the recycling industry in an effort to exchange ideas, improve recycling technology, and to further the State’s progress toward reaching its 75% recycling goal.
\n\nThe FRP is a coalition of Florida-based recycling and waste hauling companies that have come together to help boost recycling rates in the State. It offers information designed to help people make greener choices in their everyday lives, such as switching to reusable grocery bags, composting at home, and recycling whenever possible. It brings together some of the biggest recyclers in Florida, helping to further advance eco-friendly innovation and technology.
\n\nThe mission of The Georgia Recyclers is to provide a voice for Georgia-based recyclers, big and small, to members of Congress in an effort to increase recycling rates statewide. It’s a team of dedicated lobbyists who realize the benefits of recycling and how it can improve Georgia’s environment and its economy. Some of the topics this group tackles includes metal theft, container deposit legislation, storm water regulations, and recycling of all types.
\n\nThe GRC has partnered with some of the biggest companies in the state, including Coca-Cola and the Georgia Beverage Association, to promote sustainable living and recycling statewide. Its membership is open to any individual or business interested in cleaning up the State. It offers recycling training seminars, special events, an annual conference, and forms special interest groups to help push legislation related to recycling and sustainability. The GRC website offers a boatload of information to help you start living a more sustainable lifestyle.
\n\nThe Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation is the first and largest state-based Keep America Beautiful chapter in the country. Its efforts have helped reduce litter statewide by 75% over the past decade. KGB points out that for every dollar donated to its efforts, an average of $11.45 is invested back into the community. The organization works with Georgia residents, local recycling facilities and large corporations to help maintain Georgia’s environment.
\n\nThe goal of Recycle Hawai’i is to educate citizens about how and why to recycle on the beautiful islands of Hawaii. It is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides free educational services and recycling guides to the public. It was recently awarded the America’s Recycling Day Proclamation from the Governor for all the work the organization and its members have done to help preserve and protect Hawaii.
\n\nThe mission of Re-use Hawai’i is to reduce the amount of construction and demolition (C&D) debris trucked to landfills. How does it do this? Well, it’s a nonprofit company that also happens to be a team of skilled, licensed demolition specialists that are able to recover about 80% of materials prior to demolition – a process called deconstruction. It resells recovered materials to the public at huge savings in its warehouse located at 200 Keawe Street in Honolulu. Reusing salvageable materials from a typical 2,000 square foot home demolition can save more than 8,000 square feet of landfill space and save 33 trees.
\n\nThe EIEEA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the environment in Eastern Idaho, and recognizing organizations and individuals that go above and beyond in the areas of recycling, preserving the environment or sustainability. It educates the community on how to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle. The EIEEA has a variety of projects in the works, including the Green Your Classroom Grant Program to promote eco-friendly living in the classroom, and the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event held annually. The first HHW collection event held in 2007 collected almost 1,200 gallons of used motor oil, 500 automobile batteries, and more.
\n\nThe IRA is the only statewide voice for the recycling industry, helping to promote and advance recycling technology at all levels, from the classroom up to large-scale recycling operations. It hosts an annual conference to help citizens and major recycling organizations exchange ideas to help improve recycling rates and efficiency of operations. It also sponsors various events throughout the year, such as river cleanups.
\n\nThe IRC supports the 3 R’s (reduce, reuse recycle) and composting in the Hoosier state. It gives citizens and businesses the means to communicate through forums and networking, plus it supplies materials to help develop recycling solutions at all levels, from local to state. The IRC offers numerous programs and hosts many events throughout the year to help educate communities across the state. A few of its happenings include the Lend a Bin program, Home Energy Assessments to help reduce energy costs (small donation required), and an annual conference.
\n\nThe IRA is Iowa’s voice for recycling, helping to advocate on behalf of green-minded individuals and businesses statewide. It offers classroom presentations, award recognition, events, networking opportunities and much more. The IRA was a major supporter for the Iowa Container Deposit Law passed 30 years ago. The law has helped increase recycling rates of beverage containers to 86%, equal to more than 82,000 tons of material per year.
\n\nThe KOR’s mission is to support environmental stewardship. It’s a nonprofit organization run by its members, and it strives to educate the community about waste reduction, recycling, composting and sustainability in Kansas. KOR recognizes outstanding achievements by businesses or individuals at its annual conference. It’s been involved in many of the recycling-related legislation passed in Kansas over the years. Call 785-233-3771 for more information.
\n\nThe Southeast Kansas Recycling Center is a nonprofit organization that gives local recyclers a place to drop off materials. It also aims to educate the community about recycling and its benefits. The facility is located at 615 S. Joplin in Pittsburg, Kansas. Call for hours: 620-231-8930. The SEK Recycling Re-Use Shop sells donated items at significant discounts in an effort to limit landfill waste. The whole operation is run by dedicated volunteers.
\n\nThe mission of the KAEE is to educate the people of Kentucky about the environment and how to preserve it. It offers a variety of workshops to help educate students and organizations about the importance of environmental preservation. It also offers awards to individuals and organizations who demonstrate excellence in environmentalism.
\n\nThe KRA is the voice for recycling facilities throughout the State of Kentucky. It supports and lobbies for legislation designed to boost recycling rates statewide and reduce waste sent to landfills. It’s currently working on new legislation that will help discourage metal theft in Kentucky, a common problem in the state. The KRA has been a major reason why the amount of waste sent to landfills has decreased from 89% in 1980 to 54% in 2010.
\n\nThe CACRC is a nonprofit organization based in Baton Rouge that is dedicated to reducing and reusing e-waste, such as computers, DVD players, video game consoles, digital cameras and much more. All of the reusable items are donated or offered at greatly reduced prices to local schools, low-income families and other nonprofits. A recent collection event held at Furniture Mart in January, 2014 netted 75 pallets of e-waste to be reused or recycled. This helps keep thousands of pounds of e-scrap from landfills and saves the statewide economy hundreds of thousands of dollars.
\n\nThe LRA aims to give the recycling industry in Louisiana a voice at the State Capitol. Its team of lobbyists are dedicated to pushing legislation that will help increase recycling across the state. The LRA is involved in a number of bills pending before the Louisiana legislature, including the Scrap Metal Recycler Law and the metal theft bills.
\n\nThe MRRA aims to promote recycling statewide through education and marketing strategies. Its annual conference and trade show helps bring together recycling industry professionals and individuals to help share ideas and spread the word about the benefits of recycling and reusing materials.
\n\nThe MRN advocates on behalf of the Maryland public and recycling industry to help make Maryland a more sustainable, eco-friendly place to live. It provides educational resources to the public and industry professionals, hosts various events meant to promote the 3 “R’s”, and gives citizens a voice when it comes to recycling-related legislation in government.
\n\nThe Loading Dock salvages and recycles building materials. It offers inexpensive building materials to the public, such as lumber, bathroom fixtures, flooring, cabinetry, appliances and more. In 2013, The Loading Dock kept the following out of landfills: 26,000 gallons of paint, 83,000 carpet tiles, and nearly 5,000 doors. It also saved the community approximately $2 million. It accepts tax-deductible donations of all types of construction and renovation materials. It also offers free workshops and has volunteering opportunities. The Loading Dock is located at 2 North Kresson Street, Baltimore, MD 21224.
\n\nStarted in the 1970s, Earthworm was one of the pioneering forces behind Massachusetts’ recycling initiatives. It helps businesses overcome the pitfalls of recycling by offering discounted, or even free, recycling services. It also collects e-waste for proper disposal or to be reused.
\n\nHGRM is a not-for-profit organization that accepts donations of household goods, which it then distributes free of charge to people in need. In 2013, HGRM helped 2,500 families in need of household goods following job loss, fire/flood loss, abusive homes, veterans in need, and more. In all, HGRM helped people in 134 communities across Eastern Massachusetts that year.
\n\nThe MRC is the voice of recycling and composting interests statewide. It offers educational materials on the topics and holds an annual conference to help spread the word through networking and sharing of ideas. It takes a strong stance against issues/legislation that could negatively affect the environment, including open burning, yard waste disposal and e-waste ending up in landfills.
\n\nThe MRP is a coalition of Michigan-based businesses that recognizes the value of recyclables and seeks to maximize recycling efforts in the state. Its goal is to increase Michigan’s approximately 20% recycling rate, as it’s the lowest of all other Great Lakes States. Boosting recycling rates to about 31% would bring about 10,000 new jobs to the state.
\n\nARM is a nonprofit organization focused on advancing the practice of reclaiming parts and metal from scrap vehicles rather than disposing of it in landfills. It hosts various events throughout the year to help educate the public and businesses in the salvaging industry, and it also monitors current and pending legislation related to its interests.
\n\nThe RAM is the premier resource for recycling information and advocacy in the State of Minnesota. It hosts conferences, provides public education, offers educational materials and supports recycling legislation across the state. It has been the driving force behind major recycling initiatives in Minnesota, including the Message in a Bottle Program, REseat car seat recycling, America Recycles Day in MN, Borrow the Bin recycle bin rental program, Recycle More initiative, and many others.
\n\nThe mission of the MRC is to inform and educate the public, government and its members of recycling and sustainability benefits and goals for the state of Mississippi. The Coalition is currently working on a variety of projects, including funding a scholarship program for students majoring in environmental-related degrees, offering an award program for recycling excellence, educating school-age students about how and why to recycle, and much more.
\n\nKMB was launched in 1988 in an effort to promote litter prevention statewide. It hosts an annual conference and various events to help get the public involved in recycling efforts as well as educate industry professionals about advances in recycling technology and innovation. KMB received Diamond Level distinction from Keep America Beautiful for the recycling-related work it has done in the State of Mississippi.
\n\nMORA is dedicated to achieving environmental sustainability in Missouri by way of waste diversion and recycling initiatives. It offers a vast amount of educational materials designed to promote sustainability in the house, at work, in government and schools.
\n\nRecycle Montana is the state’s premier resource for learning about waste diversion and recycling information in the State of Montana. It advocates in Congress on behalf of citizens and businesses concerned about maintaining Montana’s beautiful landscape. It hosts many events throughout the year to help support recycling/reusing and spread the word of its many benefits.
\n\nThe Cinnabar Foundation is dedicated to preserving the environment of Montana. It does so through generous grants and sharing conservation stories from people like you. In 2013, 86 grants were handed out to environmental groups and individuals working on projects to help improve or maintain Montana’s scenic beauty.
\n\nThe NSRA is a nonprofit organization with a mission to further recycling initiatives throughout Nebraska. It provides technical assistance and grants to the public and recycling facilities across the state. It realizes the importance of recycling and how it creates jobs, boosts the economy and preserves the environment.
\n\nGrowing Resources for Environmental Education in Nevada, or GREENevada, is a collaborative group of organizations focused on educating students and citizens about the beneficial aspects of recycling and sustainability. It offers a grant program, various educational events and many student/teacher resources at its website. GREENevada has offered thousands of dollars in grants to local schools since its founding in 2010.
\n\nThe NRRA was founded in New Hampshire in 1981 and since then membership has grown to include more than 400 municipalities across the Northeast United States. Its primary focus is on technical and marketing aspects of recycling and waste reduction. The NRRA hosts an annual conference, educates local schools about the importance of recycling and organizes litter cleanup events throughout the state.
\n\nThe USGBC New Hampshire Chapter advocates for green building practices throughout New Hampshire. The USGBC offers LEED Certification for homes and businesses that meet certain criteria set by the USGBC. The New Hampshire Chapter hosts various events and educational meetings designed to boost the community’s awareness of green building practices and why it’s important. There are currently more than 200 LEED certified buildings in New Hampshire, and counting.
\n\nThe ANJR is New Jersey’s voice when it comes to recycling and waste diversion. Its members monitor and introduce legislation designed to increase recycling rates and improve the New Jersey environment. The ANJR offers a huge amount of information at its website related to eco-friendly living, and it also hosts numerous events throughout the year to bring together the leaders in the New Jersey recycling industry.
\n\nThe NMRC’s goal is to boost New Mexico’s relatively low 16. 2 % recycling rate (2010). It provides educational resources to citizens and businesses across the state, holds an annual conference to help share ideas and new technology, advocates recycling legislation at the government level, and offers a recognition program to award those who demonstrate excellence in the field of recycling and sustainability. Its efforts have helped boost recycling rates over the past few years, and it estimates that once the state achieves a 34% recycling rate, it would subsequently produce 5,000 new jobs in the recycling industry.
\n\nThe NYSAR3 is the statewide advisory organization for any type of legislation related to waste reduction, recycling or reuse. It also educates and promotes recycling across the state via annual conferences, award programs, grants and special events.
\n\nBuilt it Green! NYC is a nonprofit organization that collects salvaged and donated building materials and household goods/appliances for resale at hugely discounted prices. The organization helps deconstruct buildings in a way which allows things like cabinets, appliances and lumber to be reused. It helps save money and reduces the amount of waste trucked off to landfills. About 19,000 lbs. of building material waste is trucked to landfills in New York each day. It also collects food scraps for compost.
\n\nRAB is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that accepts bicycle donations for resale in an effort to promote living a healthier, greener lifestyle. But, it also does a lot more across the state. It offers a green jobs training program, youth programs and workshops, riding clubs and more. RAB diverts about 45,000 lbs. of bicycle waste away from landfills each year.
\n\nThe RANC is a group of North Carolina recyclers dedicated to the metal recycling industry. Its mission is to eliminate metal theft and to maintain the public’s best interest regarding legislation, rules and laws pertaining to metal recycling. The efforts of RANC have led to three major metal recycling laws passed since 2007 – more to come.
\n\nThe CRA is all about conserving natural resources and promoting recycling and waste reduction efforts statewide. It does so by education the public, hosting events and an annual conference, partnering with state recycling advocates, and engaging board members and councils on the topic of recycling and waste diversion. Its efforts have helped divert more than half-a-million tons of waste from landfills (2009).
\n\nThe NDSWRA is a nonprofit organization focused on educating and informing the public about recycling issues in North Dakota. It offers educational seminars and training to keep members up to date with the latest recycling technology and waste diversion techniques. It also offers scholarships and grant opportunities at its website.
\n\nThe AOR dedicates its efforts to improving Ohio’s economy through recycling and waste diversion. It does so by hosting many educational events throughout the year, lobbying for recycling-related legislation, and bringing together leaders in the recycling industry to network and share ideas.
\n\nThe OALPRP is a membership-based organization in which members are able to share ideas and knowledge about new recycling technology and innovation. Its purpose is to further recycling efforts in the State of Ohio. It hosts various events and conferences in different parts of the state throughout the year. The OALPRP also offers scholarships to students entering the environmental sciences field.
\n\nAs its name implies, the ORAO is focused on studying and promoting organic composting in Ohio – aka “food recycling”. It provides educational courses to teach people how to compost and about its benefits. It also hosts an annual conference and webinars periodically. Thanks to its efforts, there are now 25 composting facilities located across the state (EPA), and this number is growing year after year. Residential composting is also on the rise.
\n\nThe OKRA connects recycling industry professionals, government entities and the public together in an effort to boost recycling efforts statewide. It hosts events, board meetings, an annual conference and workshops to educate the public. It has become the premier platform for Oklahoma’s recycling industry to share ideas and further recycling technology in the state. There are now over 5,000 recycling-related jobs in Oklahoma with an estimated payroll of $300 million, and the OKRA is a big reason for this growth.
\n\nKOB is Oklahoma’s branch of the national Keep America Beautiful foundation. It targets grassroots recycling, reusing and composting movements in Oklahoma. It hosts many contests, events and award opportunities throughout the year in an effort to promote and reward excellence in recycling across the state. It also participates in the Great American Cleanup Oklahoma each year, the largest national cleanup day of the year.
\n\nThe Oklahoma Recyclers Association is a group of scrap metal recyclers, big and small, located throughout the State of Oklahoma. Its goal is to promote scrap metal recycling and discourage scrap metal theft. It stays active in the community by participating in various programs, such as the Shop with a Cop program, and it’s always available to help local churches, nonprofits and community events.
\n\nThe ORRA is the state’s leader when it comes to recycling and sustainability advocacy. It’s constantly trying to improve recycling efficiency, promote community service, improve the environment, and promote new community-based programs to further its goal of sustainability statewide. The ORRA accomplishes its goals through numerous partnerships and networking events hosted throughout the year. It’s both a resource for information and a “green” advocate for the citizens of Oregon.
\n\nThe AOR is dedicated to improving recycling efforts and sustainability in Oregon. It holds various conferences and forums to help spread the word and generate ideas to help achieve its goals. The AOR also recognizes organizations and individuals who demonstrate excellence in recycling, composting and sustainability with its Recycler of the Year Award.
\n\nRecycling Advocates is a grassroots nonprofit organization launched specifically for the citizens of Oregon concerned with reducing waste and recycling. It provides the public with all the information they need to know about recycling, reusing and waste diversion news going on in Oregon. It also hosts numerous events throughout the state and advocates for sustainability on the city, county and state levels. RA has accomplished many of its initiatives over the years, including helping to eliminate PVC (#3) plastic packaging, increase battery recycling statewide, testified in Congress for the Bottle Bill legislation and E-waste Bill, sponsored an electronics stewardship bill in 2003 and boosted curbside recycling efforts in the Metro area.
\n\nFree Geek is a Portland-based nonprofit organization that accepts e-waste donations, fixes it, and donates or resells it at huge discounts to Oregon residents, schools and other organizations. It has given away nearly 16,000 laptops and desktop computers since it was founded in 2000. It also offers free computer classes.
\n\nThe PROP is a nonprofit organization consisting of professional recyclers from across the state. Its mission is to promote recycling and further the technology necessary to improve its efficiency. The goal is to bring together professional recyclers and the public to inform and educate both groups of the benefits of recycling, composting and waste diversion. PROP does it all: Advocates for recycling legislation, hosts workshops and community meetings, holds an annual conference, publishes a recycling newsletter, trains individuals and organizations, and much more.
\n\nThe mission of the PRC is to maintain Pennsylvania’s natural resources today and for the future. For over 70 years the PRC has played a major role in helping to make recycling mandatory in the state, teach citizens about the importance of the 3 “R’s”, further the advancement of recycling technology and much more. Its members and leadership work hard to sponsor new recycling legislation, host events, and be active in the community to help clean-up the environment.
\n\nThe RRIE has the resources and knowledge to educate students, parents and businesses about the benefits of recycling. This nonprofit organization works with businesses to remove unwanted – but still usable – items that would otherwise be trucked to landfills, and these items are then donated to local schools, charities and other nonprofits. The RRIE currently diverts about 15 tons of waste from landfills every month, and growing.
\n\nThe CRA is focused on conserving the environment and advancing recycling and waste reduction efforts statewide. It offers educational resources, networking conference and events, partners with recycling advocates statewide, and much more. Its efforts have helped South Carolina surpass a 40% recycling rate (2012)
\n\nThe SCRA represents the state’s recycler in terms of advancing recycling initiatives through legislation, technology and education. Scrap metal theft is one big issue being tackled by the SCRA at the current time. It supports current and pending legislation regarding metal theft and all rules and regulations regarding the advancement of recycling in South Carolina.
\n\nThe SDSWMA is a membership-based organization that is focused on solid waste and recycling training and education. It hosts workshops and two conferences each year to promote its goals and missions. It also offers annual awards recognition to individuals or organizations that show excellence in the field of solid waste diversion, recycling or innovation. To promote environmental education, the SDSWMA offers a scholarship to students pursuing environmental related careers.
\n\nThe goal of the TRC is to make recycling the standard method of waste disposal in the State of Tennessee. It’s a nonprofit group composed of individuals, businesses, government institutions, trade associations, schools and other nonprofits. The TRC has played an important role in developing the 2025 Solid Waste Management Plan in Tennessee. The TRC hosts networking events, meetings and conferences throughout the year to promote recycling and spark interest in making Tennessee a more sustainable place to live.
\n\nThe TEEA is a nonprofit organization focused on educating the people of Tennessee about the benefits of recycling and living an eco-friendly lifestyle. It hosts meetings and events throughout the year to promote its goals, and its website provides links to grant opportunities and a seemingly endless amount of useful information.
\n\nSTAR is a group of regional recycling organizations and individuals dedicated to increasing Texas recycling rates as high as economically possible. It hosts a variety of educational and informational events throughout the year, including an annual summit. STAR is the state’s largest nonprofit recycling advocate.
\n\nThe TCE is a grassroots nonprofit organization with a goal to protect the environment in Texas. It organizes and promotes environmental campaigns designed to boost recycling rates, cleanup litter and lower pollution in the state. TCE stays busy throughout the year trying to accomplish its goals through legislative lobbying and education. In 2013, it was able to reduce coal plant emissions in Central Texas, push a zero waste plan for the City of Dallas, succeeded in halting plans for gas drilling in Dallas, give citizens more control over proposed waste-to-energy facility in Austin rather than giving the public no say, and much more.
\n\nCTRA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides technical assistance to cities and organizations in Texas interested in starting a recycling program. It’s the liaison between the private recycling provider and the public. It ensures competitive pricing and fair service to all customers. It also promotes and educates the public, and hosts networking events for the private sector, in an effort to advance recycling efforts throughout the State of Texas.
\n\nThe RCU is committed to improving recycling rates in the State of Utah. It’s a group of organizations, private businesses, schools and individuals dedicated to this goal. The RCU promotes recycling awareness, implements Recycling Market Development Zones in municipalities across the state, supports recycling legislation, educates and provides a platform for networking and sharing of ideas.
\n\nThe URA participates in community recycling and sustainability events across the State of Utah. It also hosts summits, workshops, events, and board meetings regularly. Its mission is to educate the public about the benefits of recycling and how to do it properly.
\n\nThe NERC promotes recycling initiatives across all of the Northeastern United States, including Vermont. This 10-state nonprofit organization aims to educate the public and private sectors about sustainability, composting, recycling and reusing. It hosts annual events and conferences to boost awareness and to share ideas to help increase recycling rates. The NERC’s work has helped lead to the development of the Electronics Recycling Coordination Clearinghouse, the nation’s first national guidelines for pharmacies, amongst many other accomplishments throughout its 27+ year existence.
\n\nThe CAV promotes recycling of organic matter, such as food scraps and yard waste. It’s a nonprofit organization that realizes the benefits of composting, including improved soil composition for growing produce and less waste trucked to landfills. The CAV is involved in promoting legislation related to composting in Vermont, as well as increasing waste hauler participation in composting programs.
\n\nThe VRA was formed in 1990 in an effort to expand recycling efforts in the State of Virginia. It’s the only statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing awareness and participation in recycling programs. Since its inception it has developed recycling training programs, a school recycling initiative, and hosted an annual conference for networking and sharing ideas. It also recognizes recycling excellence with its award program.
\n\nThe mission of the CRVA is to offer electronic equipment, such as computers or TVs, free of charge to Virginia schools and nonprofit organizations. The CRVA is a nonprofit organization which accepts most electronic items for donation with the exception of refrigerators or appliances. Over the years it has help divert more than 14,000 tons of e-waste from local landfills, and in the process has donated 20,000 pieces of electronics equipment to area schools and nonprofits.
\n\nThe WSRA is a 501c(6) nonprofit organization that educates and promotes recycling across the state of Washington. Unlike other nonprofits, the WSRA has a direct influence on recycling legislation in the State, often being the go-to source of information for lawmakers when writing up legislation related to recycling or sustainability. It hosts many events throughout the year, along with an annual conference to share recycling ideas and new advancements in recycling technology.
\n\nThe WRRA represents the interests of the private solid waste and recycling industries. It’s the largest such trade organization in the State and the longest running solid waste and recycling association in the Western United States. It provides educational resources, legal support, a voice in the state legislature and seminars/meetings throughout the year. WRRA members and their children are eligible for a $2,000 college scholarship to further their education.
\n\nThe WORC is dedicated to promoting the benefits of composting. It offers various types of training courses designed for composting professionals to help ensure efficient and effective operations. WORC facilitates communication between the public and private sector by informing the public of the benefits of composting and teaching composting facilities how to run their operations efficiently. Its work helped launch 40 composting facilities that produced over 1 million cubic yards of nutrient-dense compost in 2007.
\n\nThe Recycling Coalition of West Virginia is a 501c(3) nonprofit organization with an interest in expanding recycling initiatives across West Virginia. Its members range from citizens to large corporations in the solid waste and recycling industry.
\n\nThe WVRA represents the interests of recyclers in West Virginia. It helps ensure recyclers follow all recycling laws, improves communication between recyclers and other entities, aids law enforcement in deterring metal theft, offers educational resources and provides a voice in Congress.
\n\nAROW provides proactive leadership related to recycling and waste reduction across the State of Wisconsin. It’s a nonprofit organization that brings together industry professionals and concerned citizens looking to make a difference in their community. It holds an annual conference for its members to network and share ideas, plus it offers awards for recycling excellence. Its Recycle More campaign makes it easy for citizens to get involved and make a difference through recycling, composting and waste reduction.
\n\nThe mission of Clean Wisconsin is to ensure every resident in the state has access to clean air and water, litter-free landscapes, and clean energy. It works with local governments to clean up waterways, fight against expansion of nuclear/coal power plants, pushes lawmakers to protect the natural resources of Wisconsin, and much more. Its members are passionate about the environment and are dedicated to preserving its future.
\n\nIt’s the goal of the WSWRA to protect the health and well-being of the citizens of Wyoming by educating the community about recycling and helping to advance recycling technology with recyclers statewide. It holds a conference each year open to all members to help open the lines of communication between the public and private sector, including discussing proposed recycling legislation and ways to help maintain and improve the environment.
\n\nThe WAEE aims to educate the public about the importance of recycling and maintaining the health of the environment. It does so through various events and workshops in communities across the state. It works closely with schools to teach kids about how to respect the environment and why it’s important to maintain it. The WAEE is a nonprofit organization run by volunteers. There is no membership fee to join.
\n\nFind out what nonprofit organizations are doing in your state regarding recycling and waste diversion. This is a state-by-state listing of recycling organizations helping to make your state a greener place to live. Be sure to do your part and join one of them today.
\r\n","changed":"2021-06-05T01:51:44+00:00"},"populars":[{"id":"e4330393-eacd-54f6-ba04-8ffcbda8728b","title":"Comparing the Cost of Junk Removal to Dumpster Rental","url":"/blog/comparing-the-cost-of-junk-removal-to-dumpster-rental","image":{"path":"/static/63661a10d8a316fe97c44935ca6333db/dumpster-rental-and-junk-removal-cost-comparison.png","alt":"dumpster rental and junk removal cost comparison"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"59e80e10-b42a-5876-8471-f7ca60fbc75e","name":"Dumpster Costs","slug":"Dumpster-Costs"},{"id":"58c950b5-f4ae-5829-8cae-bf1a2ddaac1c","name":"Junk Removal Costs","slug":"Junk-Removal-Costs"}],"content":"When it comes to any sort of bulk waste or debris removal, your two best options are hiring a junk removal company or renting a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nBut how do you know which is the most cost-effective option for you?
\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\nCosts can vary greatly when renting a dumpster or hiring a junk hauler and are based on multiple factors.
\r\n
We'll go over:
\r\n\r\nA dumpster costs $250-$450 on average to rent, but as we've mentioned, prices can vary.
\r\n\r\nDumpsters are typically the most cost-effective option for medium to large projects or when you need to manage debris during an ongoing project.
\r\n\r\nA kitchen or bathroom renovation, house addition, demolition project, or large deck removal job are projects where a dumpster may be the more economical solution.
\r\n\r\nHaving a dumpster on-site for bigger projects allows you to fill it up at your convenience while keeping a clean, safe site.
\r\n\r\nBelow are a few real-world examples of dumpster rental costs around the country to help give you a general idea of what to expect.
\r\n\r\n| Dumpster Size | \r\n\t\t\tLocation | \r\n\t\t\tCost | \r\n\t\t
| 10 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tMarietta, GA | \r\n\t\t\t$275 | \r\n\t\t
| 10 yard roll-off dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tYonkers, NY | \r\n\t\t\t$300 | \r\n\t\t
| 15 yard roll-off dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tWorcester, MA | \r\n\t\t\t$350 | \r\n\t\t
| 30 yard debris box | \r\n\t\t\tLos Angeles, CA | \r\n\t\t\t$400 | \r\n\t\t
| 40 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tSpringfield, IL | \r\n\t\t\t$550 | \r\n\t\t
\r\n\r\n
Learn more about pricing:
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies charge a minimum amount for any junk removal, with the average around $75 to $100.
\r\n\r\nIf you have one or two items you’re getting rid of—like a TV, sofa, or mattress—you’ll probably be charged the minimum amount.
\r\n\r\nFor small cleanups, junk removal is typically the more cost-effective option.
\r\n\r\nA junk removal company may remove a small garage-worth of items for $200 when it may cost you $250 to rent a 10 yard bin to do the loading yourself.
\r\n\r\nIn this case, junk removal is the cheaper (and less back-breaking) option.
\r\n\r\nBelow are a few real-world examples of junk removal costs around the country to help give you a general idea of what to expect.
\r\n\r\n| Junk Removal Description | \r\n\t\t\tLocation | \r\n\t\t\tCost | \r\n\t\t
| Refrigerator removal | \r\n\t\t\tManhattan Beach, CA | \r\n\t\t\t$165 | \r\n\t\t
| Removal of 2 TVs | \r\n\t\t\tOmaha, NE | \r\n\t\t\t$45 | \r\n\t\t
| Living room set removal (sectional couch, two china cabinets) | \r\n\t\t\tToms River, NJ | \r\n\t\t\t$169 | \r\n\t\t
| Storage unit cleanout | \r\n\t\t\tSandy, UT | \r\n\t\t\t$375 | \r\n\t\t
| Hoarding home cleanout | \r\n\t\t\tFranklin, MA | \r\n\t\t\t$1,500 | \r\n\t\t
\r\n\r\n
Remember: Every project is different, so calling at least two dumpster rental and two junk removal companies to compare pricing is the best way to determine the most economical debris removal solution.
\r\nDumpster rental and junk removal costs vary based on a number of factors, including the type and amount of debris, where you're located, the accessibility of your property, and who you hire.
\r\n\r\nYour exact project cost will depend on these factors, and the best way to get an accurate estimate for your rental or project is to reach out to multiple service providers in your area for a quote.
\r\n\r\nThis not only ensures you get the best price but also allows you to choose the best company for the job, not just the cheapest.
\r\n\r\nDo you live out in the country or far off the beaten path?
\r\n\r\nIf so, you can expect your dumpster rental or junk removal service to cost more due to the cost of travel incurred by the company.
\r\n\r\nCost of living and local disposal fees also play a large role in cost.
\r\n\r\nFor example, you’ll pay significantly more in New York City to rent a dumpster than you would in Memphis, TN based on the difference in cost of living.
\r\n\r\nYou'll also likely pay more for an apartment cleanout that requires hauling items up and down flights of stairs compared to the same size cleanout in the same zip code that is conveniently located on the first floor.
\r\n\r\nSome service providers—dumpster and junk removal—charge differently for household wastes vs. construction and demolition (C&D) debris.
\r\n\r\nC&D debris is often heavier, so it may end up costing more to haul away than general household trash.
\r\n\r\nThe heavier the load, the more you’ll pay.
\r\n\r\nFor junk removal, costs rise as the volume of junk increases.
\r\n\r\nA full truckload of junk, for example, costs more than a load taking up just half of the truck’s total capacity.
\r\n\r\nLikewise, if you exceed the weight limit of your dumpster rental you'll likely be hit with overage fees.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\nThe two best ways to remove bulk waste are to either rent a dumpster or hire a junk removal company, but which option is the most cost-effective? Learn about the average costs associated with each service to determine which is the best option for your project.
\r\n","changed":"2023-09-05T17:33:18+00:00"},{"id":"cbdb3b53-9a28-5eae-8001-460da17f460c","title":"What Does the World's Most Sustainable City Look Like?","url":"/blog/the-worlds-most-sustainable-city","image":{"path":"/static/a0673f3f31324e7e8af0cf34ee0b47d3/masdar-city-master-plan-640x466.jpg","alt":"Masdar City sustainable design"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"8a088d18-16c4-5f32-8898-b75d5543d9fa","name":"Environment","slug":"Environment"},{"id":"8a556635-2a85-5e01-a170-d18bb873bb0e","name":"Sustainability","slug":"Sustainability"}],"content":"An artist's rendering of Masdar City
\r\n\r\n\r\n
Smack dab in the middle of the desert is the location of one of the world’s greenest cities. Masdar City is located in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The city is actually still in the early stages of being developed, but several buildings are fully operational, including the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology.
\r\n\r\nThe Masdar Institute of Science and Technology
\r\n\r\n\r\n
Masdar City addresses every sustainability issue you could ever think of:
\r\n\r\nSince the focus of Trash Talk is waste/trash/garbage, that’s the part of the city’s master plan we were most intrigued by. Phase 1 of Masdar City’s waste management plan will divert 50 percent of all waste away from landfills, or the equivalent of about 11,000 metric tons. The plan is to sort waste into three main streams: dry recyclables (i.e., cans and cardboard), wet recyclables (i.e., food scraps) and residuals (i.e., empty food containers). Dry recyclables will be shipped to the recycling center while wet recyclables will be composted and used for landscaping purposes. Other residual waste, including toxic waste, will be handled outside the city.
\r\n\r\nIs Masdar City the city of the future? It very well could be. However, it’s tough to say for sure until the city is fully developed and operational. This won’t happen until 2025 assuming everything stays on schedule. On paper, the city looks incredible and is amazingly eco-friendly. That said, there’s no way of knowing how accurate this will translate in real life. My best guess is that Masdar City succeeds in developing the most sustainable city in the world. However, it comes with a steep price – estimates put the price tag at around $18 to $19 billion.
\r\n\r\n
\r\nImages via: Masdar City Official Website
Smack dab in the middle of the desert is the location of one of the world’s greenest cities. Masdar City is located in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The city is actually still in the early stages of being developed, but several buildings are fully operational, including the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology.
\r\n","changed":"2023-09-05T17:34:24+00:00"},{"id":"c50e03d9-0e67-5eb4-9f0b-35aec0b3a931","title":"Debris Removal: The Complete Guide to Getting Rid of Anything","url":"/blog/debris-removal-the-complete-guide-to-getting-rid-of-anything","image":{"path":"/static/bd2804301ae2c375ac6dbf68d306b1f9/debris-removal-guide.jpg","alt":"debris removal guide"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"}],"content":"What’s the best way to get rid of _______?
\r\n\r\nNot all wastes are destined for the trash can.
\r\n\r\nIf you have large amounts of debris, or you have items that are banned by your local waste hauler, you need to find the right disposal option.
\r\n\r\nBelow we’ll take a look at various types of wastes and the best ways to dispose of them.
\r\n\r\n\r\nLearn how to properly dispose of:
\r\n\r\nThere are several ways to dispose of unwanted junk or debris, and each has its place.
\r\n\r\nThis is the best possible option because it's great for the environment and your wallet.
\r\n\r\nAlways recycle, reuse, or donate materials when you can.
\r\n\r\nIf this is not an option, then it's time to start considering the next disposal options.
\r\n\r\nDumpsters come in a wide range of sizes, from 3 cubic yard dumpster bags to full-size 40 cubic yard construction dumpsters.
\r\n\r\nIt’s an ideal solution for construction, demolition, house cleanouts, roofing, yard waste disposal, and recycling in bulk.
\r\n\r\nThis is a great option for disposal of e-waste, tough-to-dispose-of wastes, and bulk amounts of debris.
\r\n\r\nIt’s a convenient option—they handle all the removal and disposal for you.
\r\n\r\nIt can become costly for larger cleanups, so it’s something to consider when deciding between renting a dumpster and hiring a junk hauling service.
\r\n\r\nIf you have a truck and/or trailer, hauling the debris yourself to a local landfill is always an option.
\r\n\r\nThe advantage of this method is the lower cost of disposal compared to renting a roll-off, although the tradeoff is less convenience and speed.
\r\n\r\nThe time it takes you to drive and drop off the debris at the nearest landfill can be substantial.
\r\n\r\nAlso, hazardous materials require a permit to haul, so do your due diligence as to the laws in your area regarding the types of waste you are allowed to haul and the types of debris accepted at local landfills (e.g., some accept only C&D debris and not household trash).
\r\n\r\nHousehold hazardous waste (HHW) facilities safely process and recycle potentially toxic wastes, such as e-waste, household cleaners, paint, chemicals, medicines, and liquids.
\r\n\r\nSome communities host HHW events on an annual or biannual basis.
\r\n\r\nFind the nearest HHW drop off location online by visiting Earth911.com.
\r\n\r\nAnd now, let’s discuss specific types of wastes and how to properly get rid of each type.
\r\n\r\nExamples: household garbage, furniture, broken toys, packaging materials
\r\n\r\nThis category of waste includes anything you’d typically put in your waste bin.
\r\n\r\nGenerally, this category of waste is taken care of via your waste hauler’s curbside collection service.
\r\n\r\nHowever, there are situations that require additional means, like hoarding situations, foreclosure cleanups, moving, and special events that generate a lot of trash.
\r\n\r\nWhen you have more than your curbside roll cart can handle, a roll-off container works great for bulk amounts of household trash.
\r\n\r\nAlternatively, hiring a junk removal company to pick up the trash for you is a convenient disposal method, too, and it may be a more cost-effective option for smaller jobs (less than a few cubic yards of waste).
\r\n\r\nYou could also haul these wastes to the landfill yourself if you live within close proximity of one.
\r\n\r\nDisposal of appliances containing Freon, paints, liquids, lead-acid batteries, fluorescent light bulbs, and other household hazardous wastes (HHWs) require special handling.
\r\n\r\nThese wastes shouldn’t be mixed in with your household garbage.
\r\n\r\nContact your city’s solid waste department to find the nearest HHW facility, or visit the city’s website for more information.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nExamples: lumber, drywall (sheetrock), wood flooring, carpeting, renovation debris, roofing debris
\r\n\r\nResidential and commercial construction or demolition projects require the use of a dumpster, junk removal company, or driving the debris to the landfill yourself.
\r\n\r\nSome U.S. cities require C&D debris to be dropped off at dedicated construction and demolition landfill facilities where it is separated and recycled.
\r\n\r\nConcrete
\r\n\r\nLike asphalt, this is a very heavy, dense debris that is best disposed of in a roll-off dumpster.
\r\n\r\nMost dumpster rental companies require concrete to be separated from other wastes, and it must be loaded in a smaller container, such as a 10 yard bin, to ensure it does not become too heavy of a load for the roll-off truck to handle.
\r\n\r\nRoofing Shingles
\r\n\r\nThis is a heavy debris that is generally loaded in its own dumpster and not in mixed loads.
\r\n\r\nShingles are recycled in most municipalities.
\r\n\r\nWood/Lumber
\r\n\r\nWood has a potential to be reused if salvaged properly.
\r\n\r\nReclaiming wood and selling or donating it is one way to cut down on disposal costs for a project.
\r\n\r\nCarpeting
\r\n\r\nA junk removal company offers the most convenient disposal solution in this case.
\r\n\r\nRenting a dumpster or having your waste hauler pick it up are also valid options.
\r\n\r\nMany waste haulers require the carpeting to be cut down to a specified length (e.g., 4 ft. lengths), so that may add to the inconvenience of going this route.
\r\n\r\nWood/Laminate Flooring
\r\n\r\nThis material is salvageable in many cases.
\r\n\r\nThis would, again, help cut down on disposal costs.
\r\n\r\nIf reclaiming the wood isn’t an option, other cost-effective solutions include renting a roll-off or hiring a junk removal company to pick it up.
\r\n\r\nSiding
\r\n\r\nCertain types of siding, such as cedar, are highly desirable, and people will often take it off your hands.
\r\n\r\nThis is great for cutting down on disposal costs.
\r\n\r\nSimply posting a listing on Craigslist is an easy way to accomplish getting rid of cedar or wood siding.
\r\n\r\nVinyl siding is typically disposed of in a dumpster or picked up by a junk removal company.
\r\n\r\nA dumpster is generally the more cost-effective option for a whole-house siding replacement project.
\r\n\r\nKitchen/Bathroom Renovation
\r\n\r\nThis includes cabinets, tubs, sinks, toilets, countertops, and floors.
\r\n\r\nMuch of this material can be reclaimed. Other materials can be disposed of in a roll-off container or via junk removal service.
\r\n\r\nMost waste haulers do not accept renovation debris via curbside service.
\r\n\r\nHowever, some will by appointment for an additional fee.
\r\n\r\nMetals
\r\n\r\nBulk amounts of steel, aluminum, copper, and other metals should be recycled.
\r\n\r\nMetal is a valuable commodity.
\r\n\r\nYou can eliminate disposal costs and make a few bucks by dropping off metal scraps at a local scrap yard.
\r\n\r\nIf you cannot DIY, some metal recyclers may be able to pick it up, or you can post an ad on Craigslist.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nExamples: tree limbs, bush trimmings, grass clippings
\r\n\r\nBeing that it’s an organic waste, yard debris is best disposed by composting, but dumpsters and junk removal companies are good options, too.
\r\n\r\nDumpster companies and junk removal service providers will drop off the yard wastes at the proper facility.
\r\n\r\n*Most waste haulers don’t allow yard debris mixed in with general waste.
\r\n\r\nHeavy yard wastes, such as large logs, are best handled by professionals who have the right equipment to safely load and haul away such debris.
\r\n\r\nMost junk removal companies have the right equipment to take on this type of project.
\r\n\r\nConsider starting a compost pile if you have the room to do so.
\r\n\r\nIt’s the easiest and least expensive way to get rid of yard debris, plus it produces nutrient-rich compost ideal for farming, landscaping, and flower gardens.
\r\n\r\nBe sure you know the laws regarding yard waste disposal in your area.
\r\n\r\nSome cities have made yard debris composting mandatory.
\r\n\r\nIn this case, you’d need to have the debris dropped off at the proper composting facility.
\r\n\r\nIt may not be accepted at the municipal landfill, so be sure to do your due diligence.
\r\n\r\nSearch your city’s solid waste authority website or give them a call to learn more.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nExamples: kitchen stove (range), microwave, washer, dryer, dishwasher, refrigerator
\r\n\r\nHiring a junk removal company for removal of one or several appliances is a quick and cost-effective method of removal. Junk haulers charge a minimum fee of anywhere from $50 to $125, so expect to be charged at least that amount for the appliance removal.
\r\n\r\nA dumpster works well for disposal of a whole home's worth of appliances, such as during a major renovation project or demolition.
\r\n\r\nChoose a bigger dumpster than you think you need.
\r\n\r\nWhy? Most roll-off containers have rounded bottoms, while most appliances are bulky and square.
\r\n\r\nSo while you may have 10 cubic yards worth of appliances (think of 10 kitchen stoves, which approximately equals 10 cubic yards), the appliances will consume greater than 10 cubic yards worth of space inside a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nIn this example, a 20 yard bin may be the better choice.
\r\n\r\nSave on disposal costs by donating working appliances to local charitable organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity.
\r\n\r\nSome locations may even pick them up for free, so be sure to ask!
\r\n\r\nAlternatively, you can sell appliances that are still in good shape via Craigslist, Facebook, or by other means.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nExamples: lead-acid batteries, fluorescent bulbs, household cleaners, motor oil, chemicals
\r\n\r\nThis class of wastes should never be mixed in with the general waste stream, so avoid putting household hazardous wastes in the waste bin, dumpsters, burning it, burying it, or using any other unsafe disposal method. Doing so can taint drinking water, harm local wildlife, produce unsafe crops at local farms, and pollute the air.
\r\n\r\nDispose of HHWs by dropping them off at a local HHW processing facility.
\r\n\r\nSome communities also host annual or biannual HHW pickup events where you can drop off a wide range of hazardous wastes found in your home.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies, and some dumpster rental providers, will accept HHWs if you discuss it beforehand.
\r\n\r\nThere may or may not be additional fees for handling/hauling of hazardous materials—it depends upon the company and local laws governing HHW handling.
\r\n\r\nFind a household hazardous waste recycler near you.
\r\n\r\nHere’s a quick breakdown of common types of HHWs:
\r\n\r\nBatteries
\r\n\r\nCommon A, AA, AAA, D, and similar dry-cell batteries can be thrown away with your trash.
\r\n\r\nHowever, car batteries and other larger batteries need to be properly recycled.
\r\n\r\nLiquids
\r\n\r\nThis includes motor oil, antifreeze, household cleaners, fuel, and other toxic/flammable liquids.
\r\n\r\nMotor oil can be safely dropped off for recycling at a local oil change facility or car dealership that provides service.
\r\n\r\nOther liquids can usually be dropped off at an HHW facility or cleanup event.
\r\n\r\nLight Bulbs
\r\n\r\nFluorescent bulbs (CFLs) shouldn’t be mixed in with household trash.
\r\n\r\nThey contain small amounts of mercury.
\r\n\r\nDrop these off at the nearest recycling facility that accepts CFLs.
\r\n\r\nSome retailers, such as Lowe's and IKEA, also accept CFLs for proper recycling.
\r\n\r\nLearn more about CFL recycling.
\r\n\r\nMedicines
\r\n\r\nDispose of medications at your local cleanup event or HHW processing facility.
\r\n\r\nIf you do not have access to this type of event or facility, you can dispose of medicines in the following manner:
\r\n\r\nExplosives
\r\n\r\nHighly-flammable, combustible, and explosive wastes can be dangerous when mixed in with the general waste stream.
\r\n\r\nLocal laws dictate the proper way to dispose of wastes, like fuel, oil, fireworks, lighter fluid, matches, and others.
\r\n\r\nPaint
\r\n\r\nWet paint must be dried before throwing it away.
\r\n\r\nYou can mix bulk amounts of paint with sand or similar material to dry it quickly.
\r\n\r\nYou can safely throw empty, dry paint cans into the trash or a rented dumpster.
\r\n\r\nThe one exception is if the paint is very old and may contain lead.
\r\n\r\nIt is unlikely this will be an issue considering lead paint was banned in 1978 (although lead-based paint was still sold for several years after that).
\r\n\r\nIf it’s a very old can of paint you need to dispose of, play it safe and bring it to a local recycling facility for proper disposal.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nExamples: paper, cardboard, plastics, metal
\r\n\r\nDespite the slight downturn in recycling noted in recent years, access to recycling services is pretty extensive these days. For bulk amounts of recyclables, you have several options:
\r\n\r\nRenting a dumpster is a quick and easy option for DIYers.
\r\n\r\nClean load it with recyclable materials only and the rental company may offer a discount.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal is usually more expensive than renting a dumpster but much more convenient.
\r\n\r\nDropping recyclables off at a recycling center is the most cost-effective method for handling a low volume of recyclables.
\r\n\r\nPosting an ad on Craigslist or Freecycle is another cheap and convenient way to get rid of recyclables.
\r\n\r\nThe potential downsides include having to wait potentially days or weeks (if ever) before finding someone to pick it up, and this method is generally limited to working well for valuable recyclables, such as metals.
\r\n\r\nBring scrap metals, like copper pipes, steel, brass fittings, iron, junk cars, etc., to a local metal scrap yard to get paid for your scraps.
\r\n\r\nSome recycling facilities will even purchase bulk amounts of paper, cardboard, and plastics.
\r\n\r\nFor example, Padnos is a full-service recycler serving most of the State of Michigan and will purchase most types of recyclables (in bulk amounts).
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFood and organic scraps can be composted.
\r\n\r\nNot all food scraps are ideal for composting, however.
\r\n\r\nWastes that are excellent compost materials include:
\r\n\r\nSee a complete list of compostable items and learn how to get started.
\r\n\r\nDo not compost meats, cheeses/dairy, plastics, fats, dirty paper/paper towels, breads, dog/cat wastes (grass-eating animal wastes are ok), or processed foods.
\r\n\r\nIf you have a bulk amount of food or organic waste to dispose of, discuss solutions with your waste hauler or a dumpster rental provider near you.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nTires are banned for disposal in landfills in the majority of states within the United States.
\r\n\r\nInstead, they can be recycled or reused.
\r\n\r\nBring old automobile tires to a tire retailer for recycling.
\r\n\r\nThere may be a small fee involved in some cases.
\r\n\r\nAlternatively, you can sell or give away tires that still have some tread left.
\r\n\r\nRecyclers, artists, and companies that work with rubber may also take them off your hands for free.
\r\n\r\nPost an ad on Craigslist, Facebook, or Freecycle.org to get started.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies also haul away tires, and this is a cost-effective and convenient option if you have a large number of tires to offload.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFound on drywall, paint, roofing materials, and other building materials.
\r\n\r\nThese toxic substances are more prevalent in older homes or commercial buildings.
\r\n\r\nBefore starting a renovation, demolition, or construction project in an older home, be sure to have it tested for asbestos, mold, and lead paint.
\r\n\r\nAsbestos
\r\n\r\nAsbestos fibers are released into the air when affected material, such as drywall, is disturbed.
\r\n\r\nLeft alone, asbestos isn’t harmful.
\r\n\r\nIt’s during renovation or demolition that the asbestos is released into the air.
\r\n\r\nExposure can lead to lung cancer, mesothelioma, and lung problems.
\r\n\r\nMold
\r\n\r\nAvoid dangerous mold by controlling moisture inside your home, repairing leaks, and cleaning up after natural disasters.
\r\n\r\nMold can often hide behind walls.
\r\n\r\nIf you spot a large area of it, it’s best to leave the removal to the professionals.
\r\n\r\nIn terms of disposal, a mold removal specialist will properly discard of the materials for you.
\r\n\r\nOtherwise, you can dispose of small quantities of moldy materials in a dumpster if the debris is bagged or wrapped in plastic.
\r\n\r\nLead Paint
\r\n\r\nHow you dispose of lead paint debris depends upon how much of it is present and what your state’s laws are regarding disposal.
\r\n\r\nIf a sample of the debris contains less than 100 milligrams of lead per kilogram, you can typically dispose of it like regular municipal waste.
\r\n\r\nIf concentrations of lead are greater than that benchmark, special disposal procedures must be followed.
\r\n\r\nIt’s best to hire a lead paint abatement specialist to test for lead paint and to dispose of it if necessary.
\r\n\r\nTo summarize, asbestos materials always require special disposal procedures, while mold and lead paint tainted debris can be disposed of the same way you would any other C&D debris as long as the levels are low.
\r\n\r\nRent a dumpster for larger cleanups, or hire a junk hauler to come pick up smaller amounts of debris.
\r\n\r\nAlways inform the rental company or junk removal provider that the debris is tainted.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nExamples: motor oil, antifreeze, transmission fluid, cleaners, brake fluid
\r\n\r\nMost chemicals and liquids are required to be disposed of at a licensed household hazardous waste (HHW) facility.
\r\n\r\nCities that do not have such a facility will typically hold HHW collection events once or twice per year where you can drop off chemicals and other hazardous wastes.
\r\n\r\nUsed motor oil can be brought to an oil change facility or auto parts store for proper recycling.
\r\n\r\nCall ahead just to be sure.
\r\n\r\nNever dispose of auto fluids or chemicals in the trashcan or a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nRefer to Earth911 for more information and to find a local automotive fluids recycler near you.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nExamples: computers, TVs, VCRs, DVD players, tablets, phones, other electronic devices
\r\n\r\nElectronic waste, or e-waste, is growing in the U.S., and proper disposal of this debris is often misunderstood.
\r\n\r\nMost e-waste is not allowed in the general waste stream; it should be properly recycled to avoid heavy metal contamination and other potential hazards.
\r\n\r\nSome states, including California and New York, have banned disposal of e-waste in landfills or waste-to-energy (WTE) facilities.
\r\n\r\nInstead of throwing e-waste in the trash, it should go to the proper recycling facility.
\r\n\r\nWhat to Do with E-Waste
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nThere are a number of ways to dispose of various wastes, debris, and junk, but how do you know the best way to get rid of your items? Learn the most cost-efficient and eco-friendly disposal options for nearly every type of debris.
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