Recycling in the Phoenix Arizona Construction Industry with OERC
Anyone who has ever been to a construction site knows that there is a lot of waste generated. From metal scraps to broken glass, there is no shortage of materials that can be recycled. However, recycling in the construction industry is often overlooked. Construction companies often simply dispose of waste materials, rather than taking the time to sort and recycle them. This is a shame, as recycling construction waste can have a number of benefits. First, it can save money. Recycling companies will often pay for materials like metal and glass, which means that construction companies can offset the cost of disposal. Second, recycling helps to conserve resources. Every ton of recycled metal saves energy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Finally, recycling helps to create jobs. In the United States alone, there are over 1 million jobs in the recycling industry. Clearly, recycling is an important part of sustainable construction. By making the effort to recycle construction waste, we can help to save money, conserve resources, and create jobs.
Metal
Metal is a material that has been used by humans for centuries. Today, it is still an essential part of our lives, and we rely on it for everything from building skyscrapers to making coins. But what exactly is metal? In its simplest form, metal is an element that is found in the earth's crust. It is solid at room temperature and has a shiny, metallic luster. There are many different types of metal, but some of the most common are copper, brass, and aluminum. Each type of metal has its own unique properties, but all metals are strong and durable, which is why they are so useful in so many different applications.
Glass
Glass is one of the most versatile materials used in modern life. It can be molded, blown, or cut into any number of shapes and is used for everything from windows to drinking glasses. But what exactly is glass? Glass is a non-crystalline solid that is often transparent and has widespread practical, technical, and decorative uses. But despite its seemingly simple composition, glassmaking is actually a very complex process. First, a mixture of sand, soda ash, and limestone is heated to over 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. This molten mixture is then cooled very gradually to prevent it from crystallizing. The result is a material that is strong yet brittle and that has the unique ability to transmit light. So the next time you look at a window or drink from a glass, take a moment to appreciate the complex process that went into making it.
Plastic
Just about everyone uses plastic every day, but how much do you really know about this material? For example, did you know that plastic is made from petroleum? Or that it can take centuries to break down in the environment? In honor of Plastic Pollution Awareness Month, here are some fascinating facts about plastic.
Did you know that the first plastic was invented by a chemist trying to create artificial ivory? Or those plastics are now used in everything from car parts to medical implants? The versatility of plastic is one of its biggest advantages. However, it also comes with some disadvantages. For example, plastic takes centuries to break down in the environment, which means that it can accumulate over time. This can be harmful to wildlife, as animals may mistake plastic for food and ingest it. Additionally, when plastic does break down, it releases harmful chemicals into the air and soil.
Despite its drawbacks, plastic is still an important part of our everyday lives. With a little awareness and care, we can use this material responsibly and reduce its impact on the environment.
Rubber and Leather
Many people are familiar with rubber and leather, but they may not know how these materials are produced. Rubber comes from the sap of rubber trees, which is then vulcanized, or treated with heat and chemicals, to create a durable material. Leather, on the other hand, is made from the hides of animals. The hides are treated with a variety of chemicals and then tanned, a process that helps to preserve the hide and make it more pliable. Both rubber and leather are used in a variety of products, from footwear to car seats. While both materials have their own unique benefits, they share one key advantage: durability. Thanks to their tough nature, rubber and leather can withstand a lot of wear and tear, making them ideal for use in products that see heavy use.
Wood
Wood has been used by humans for centuries, and it remains one of the most versatile materials available. It can be used for construction, fuel, furniture, paper, and a variety of other purposes. The properties of wood vary depending on the type of tree it comes from. For example, hardwoods like maple and oak are strong and durable, while softwoods like pine are lightweight and easy to work with. No matter what its purpose, wood is an essential part of our everyday lives.
Where to Recycle in Phoenix
metals, glass, paper, plastic, rubber and leather, wood. These are the most commonly recycled materials from construction and demolition sites but there are many more. OERC is committed to helping you recycle as much of your construction waste as possible. We have a growing list of accepted materials so that we can keep as much out of landfills as possible. Olgin Efune Recycling Company is your one-stop shop for all things construction recycling in and around Phoenix, AZ. Give us a call today to see how we can help you green up your next project!