How to Recycle Coca-Cola Cans

Aluminum is a useful resource that can be recycled quite easily.

There are a number of reasons to recycle used Coca-Cola cans. Not only is it a way to reduce clutter and make some extra pocket change, the process is now a fairly easy one. Aluminum is also a very useful product to recycle and has a number of different uses. The U.S. Government as well as the Coca-Cola Company have introduced a number of waste management programs that make the process even easier.

Things You'll Need

• 1 can crusher (optional)
• 1 large, heavy duty plastic or cloth bag

Instructions

Organizing the Cans

1. Rinse the empty cans thoroughly in warm water to ensure there are no residuals left in them.

2. Gather the cans in the plastic or cloth bag. Suspend the plastic bag in an upright plastic receptacle, from a drawer, or over the back of a chair to make this easier.

3. Place the bag in the required pick-up bin (if you have curbside recycling) or take it to the nearest drop off center for a refund.

Tips & Warnings

• Recycling programs vary from region to region. There are four primary recycling programs in the United States: curbside pick-up, buy back and drop off centers, and deposit or refund programs. It is not necessary to crush or flatten your cans before recycling them. Check with the EPA or the Coca-Cola website to find out about what programs are available for your home or business.

• Be aware of sharp edges when you crush your cans. Rinse any cans you plan to recycle thoroughly. Any residual substance left on the can can attract bugs and other pests. If you have curbside pick-up for recycling, this is especially important.

References

• Professor's House: Aluminum Recycling Facts
• The Coca-Cola Company: Global Package Recovery Initiatives
• United States EPA: Recycling