Recycling Appliances: Why it Matters
How recycling appliances helps the environment
Every appliance reaches the age when it requires a replacement. Sometimes people replace their appliances before they stop working, for aesthetic reasons or to trade them in for more energy-efficient models. If you have an old appliance you no longer want, try to recycle it instead of sending it to a landfill. Read on to learn more about the importance of recycling appliances.
Environmental Reasons
Refrigerators, stoves, freezers, and other appliances are made of steel and other valuable recyclable materials. Throwing old appliances in landfills means these materials will go to waste. Throwing appliances in a landfill creates a number of environmental challenges. Landfill space is limited, and appliances require large amounts of space in them. Therefore, non-recyclable items can’t be thrown there in their place. Another problem with throwing appliances in landfills are the dangerous chemicals they contain. Appliances slowly leak these chemicals into the groundwater when thrown away with regular trash. Appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners release gases known as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). These gases contribute to air pollution and the depletion of the ozone layer. Other chemicals appliances often contain include flame retardants, beryllium, lead, mercury, and chromium.
Appliances Should be Reused
The best route to take with a working appliance is to continue to use it until it dies. So if you’re upgrading to an energy-efficient model, look into donating your old appliance to a non-profit organization. Or, try selling it for cheap online to someone who can’t afford a new appliance.
Recycling is Mandatory
Appliances are banned from landfills in a number of states, including Pennsylvania. People caught illegally dumping appliances are subject to fines and/or disciplinary action when caught. Therefore, recycling facilities are easier to find and many municipal recycling collectors offer special appliance pick-ups.
Recycling Appliances: We Can Help
Contact JDog Junk Removal & Hauling for more information about recycling appliances. We’re here to help and promise to treat you and your home with Respect, Integrity, and Trust. Call us today at 844-GET-JDOG to schedule a pickup!