Recycling has been popular for several years as a way for people to do their part for the environment. However, it is common for many people to associate recycling with simply sorting the plastic and the paper from their household trash, which is an excellent way to help keep the environment clean. Metal recycling is not only good for the environment, but you can also earn a decent profit. Here are some tips to help you get started recycling aluminum to earn extra money.
What’s the Best Type of Metal to Recycle?
Any type of metal can be recycled, including steel, brass and copper; however, one of the most common types of metal to recycle is aluminum. Cans of beverages are sold by the thousands each year, so aluminum cans are the most common type of aluminum to recycle, but there is a vast array of other items you should also be on the look-out for when searching for recyclable metals, including:
* Car parts
* Old aluminum patio sets
* Disposable pans, such as large roasting pans
* Household aluminum foil
How Does the Metal Recycling Process Work?
Most large cities have one or more recycling plants, but it is suggested that you call a local recycling plant before hauling your metal in, to make sure that they don’t only accept plastic and/or paper. All of the aluminum and other metals are accumulated from the recycling depots to be sent to a processing plant where the aluminum is sorted and made into slabs of metal. Before the aluminum is melted down, all of the coatings and labels are removed and additional new aluminum is added so that it can be re-purposed for new items.
What Are the Benefits of Metal Recycling?
Recycling metal, especially items such as aluminum cans, is an ideal way to reduce the amount of debris which is littering the environment and it helps to reduce the need for more landfills. Aluminum is a sustainable material, so it can be recycled numerous times. One of the best benefits is that it is an excellent way to earn extra money for individuals or as a community fundraiser.
When you first start metal recycling, there are a few things to keep in mind that will make the process much easier. It is recommended that you separate and prepare the aluminum and other metals as you collect them, this will make it easier for you when you get to the scrap yard. For example, remove labels, and take items apart, such as car motors or lawn furniture and crushed cans. Doing this will give you more space to store the metals until you are ready to take it to a recycling plant; it is also easier to weigh the items when they are separated. Keep in mind that the price for recycled metals change frequently, so you should call the recycling plant ahead of time to make sure you are getting a decent price for your recyclable metals. In the Newark, NJ and surrounding tri-state areas give H&C Metals Inc. a try.
