How to Make Money Recycling Phone Books

Recycle phone books.

With the increased use of the Internet and smart phones, phone books are increasingly regarded as a nuisance rather than a helpful tool. But one person's trash can be another person's treasure, so consider the following tips for making some money while recycling old phone books.

Instructions

1. Create a list of medium- to large-sized local businesses and apartment complexes, which are often inundated with unused phone books littering the lobby. Contact each one, tell the manager you will recycle the phone books for a fee, and build your business by following the cycle of phone book deliveries.

2. Create art. Objects made out of recycled materials are more popular than ever. If you have artistic talent, consider creating picture frames, ornaments or other creative objects out of recycled phone books, and promote the connection as you sell your work at local craft fairs.

3. Shred the paper in phone books and build a business selling it as a fire starter, since balled-up paper works great in fireplaces and fire pits. In addition, the paper works great as mulch in the garden, proving year-round opportunities for sales and making money.

4. Research various phone book collectors, and sell your collection to them. Phone book collectors then sell the books to people researching family or regional history.

Tips & Warnings

• Get creative as you approach a phone book recycling business, and don't be afraid to try new things.

• Not all phone book covers are recyclable, so make sure you read the information on the cover.

References

• The Daily Green: 17 Creative Things to do with Phone Books
• Earth 911