When it comes time to replace your old refrigerator, dishwasher, or washing machine, what do you do with the outdated appliance? While tossing it in the trash might seem like the easiest option, appliance recycling offers a much more responsible solution. Not only is it good for the environment, but it can also benefit you in surprising ways.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Your Appliances
Appliance recycling is a key part of the circular economy, where materials are recovered and reused in new products. This reduces the need to extract virgin resources from the earth, a process that can be harmful to the environment. Many appliances contain valuable materials like steel, copper, and aluminum. Recycling these materials instead of mining new ones conserves our natural resources and reduces energy consumption.
Landfill Relief
Landfills are overflowing with electronic waste, or e-waste. Appliances take up a significant amount of space in landfills, and some contain hazardous materials that can leak and contaminate soil and water. Recycling diverts these appliances from landfills, reducing their environmental impact and creating more space for waste that can’t be recycled.
Safer Communities
Some appliances contain hazardous materials like mercury and refrigerants. Proper appliance recycling ensures these materials are handled safely, preventing them from entering the environment and posing a threat to human health.
Economic Benefits
Appliance recycling creates jobs in the recycling and manufacturing sectors. The recovered materials can be used to manufacture new appliances, reducing the need to import raw materials and boosting the local economy.