How to Recycle Cans for Electricity
Your empty can cannot make electricity, but it can conserve it considerably. Take your soda can, for example. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a recycled can can save 92 percent of the energy required to produce a new can from scratch. That same soda can, repurposed within solar heating or eco-building products, would reduce home energy consumption also, according to Earth911.com. With average Americans each consuming 43,371 sodas in their lifetimes, by "National Geographic" estimates, you likely will have thousands of chances to wield the energy-saving power of one empty can. A sound capture-and-recycle system will ensure that you take these opportunities.
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Instructions
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At Home and at Work
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Key in "Aluminum Can" (or other type of can) and your zip code in Earth911.com's recycle center locator. If you are not already signed up for curbside collection of recyclables, contact the listed authorities to enroll or determine drop off locations for your empty cans.
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Position a recycling container next to your main trash bin to conveniently collect cans as they are tossed. Set up the same system in bathrooms as needed.
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Prepare empty cans for collection as required by your recycling service provider. Rinse cans to prevent odor and bugs, regardless of whether your recycling service provider requires it.
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Wash your recycling bins regularly with soap and water or bleach.
On the Road
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Carry a container in your vehicle's trunk for your empty drink cans and those you may find littered at a community event or public place. Pour out all can contents before placing them in the container. Line and pad the container to protect your vehicle from inadvertent spills.
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Dispose of collected cans using your home recycling system or at recycling bins in public places such as supermarkets, schools and gyms.
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Refresh your container padding and lining on a regular basis.
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Tips & Warnings
Consider using a trash bin with different recycling compartments already built in.
Consider making or buying a can crusher to save on storage and transporting space.
To reduce energy consumption, explore making or buying a passive home heating system that uses empty beverage cans.
Different recycling service providers have different prepping and sorting requirements for different kinds of cans. Familiarize yourself with these, especially those that apply to aerosol spray cans, paint cans and cans containing hazardous materials.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit close up of an opened tin can image by Piter Pkruger from Fotolia.com
