6 Main Reasons Commercial Recycling Matters

Recycling is a process that takes waste materials and turns them into raw materials that can once again be used to make something useful without using new raw goods. A lesser-known term is commercial recycling and it can be tough to find a clear definition of it.  We define commercial recycling as the reclamation of scrap materials like metal, plastic, paper generated from the commercial industry, that are recycled in larger amounts with the specific purpose of reusing these reclaimed materials for business and manufacturing purposes.

We suggest commercial recycling is even more important in the commercial industry due to the amount of waste it reduces from what gets put into landfills and the amount of greenhouse gas emissions reduced. Beyond helping the environment, commercial recycling also helps to create jobs.  Keep reading as we take a more in-depth look at six reasons why commercial recycling matters in the current and future economy!

What is Commercial Recycling?

We defined commercial recycling above and know it includes the process of collecting, processing, and recovering valuable materials that would otherwise be placed in landfills.  Commercial recycling is an essential part of sustainable waste management, helping turn business and trade waste into valuable resources. Not only does this process reduce the strain on landfill sites but it also helps protect our environment from dangerous pollutants often found in commercial-produced materials. To put that another way - all those shops and offices we frequent generate some type of unwanted material so by opting for responsible disposal options such as commercial recycling, everyone can contribute to a healthier planet!

Aluminum Recycles Quickly

An estimated 98% of aluminum that gets recycled can be reused within 60 days. Aluminum is a good example of a metal that can be recycled over and over.

An aluminum beverage can might even find a new life as an aircraft or automotive part once it’s recycled. It can also be reused in boats, outdoor furniture, windows, doors, and other items.

The recycling process for aluminum has become so efficient, it takes less energy to recycle aluminum than it does to mine for new aluminum. Imagine what can do for our landfills, carbon footprint and saving our natural resources?

Recycling is Economics

Recycling is an economic issue. It saves money, creates jobs and reduces costs. More importantly, it improves economic security by tapping a domestic source of materials.

By recycling, you’re eliminating the need for new materials and supplies. The new materials includes steel, aluminum and plastics. So, you’re saving money as well as reducing your businesses’ carbon footprint.

You’re also saving money and still making economic sense as you have less labor and shipping costs. This all adds to your bottom line in running a business.

Energy and More Energy Saved

Recycling is an effective way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It saves energy by taking less material to make new products from scratch.

You’re using less material overall when you recycle. Which saves energy. When you’re making less material, there's less fuel needed between transportation and disposal.

Recycling aluminum uses 95% less energy than producing new aluminum. Cooper recycling uses 85% less energy than producing new copper.

When glass is recycled, it uses 75% less energy than producing new glass. Recycling paper uses 50% less energy than producing new paper. You can see saving energy and recycling go hand in hand!

Copper is Long Lasting

Copper is an excellent conductor of electricity, which can help create a more efficient electrical system in vehicles. Secondly, copper is strong and durable, meaning it can withstand the wear and tear that comes with being used in an electric vehicle. Electric vehicles put stress on electrical components, so using a material like copper that can withstand heavy use is essential.

Since copper is recyclable, it can be used again and again in new electric vehicles. It is relatively inexpensive, making it a cost-effective choice for electric vehicles.

It’s a very sustainable choice for automakers who want to reduce their environmental impact. They’ll also leave a positive income on the economy when using and recycling copper. Image the possibilities if you’re in the electrical vehicle industry and you’re using copper!

Recycling Reduces Landfill and Waste Issue

Recycling reduces landfill space. Landfills are a major source of emissions, methane and nitrous oxide gases, which contribute to global warming. Reputable commercial businesses need to be concerned about our environment, doing their mark to reduce their carbon footprint. It all adds up to doing good for all economy, too!

Recycling also reduces the need for new materials, which can be more expensive and adds to more waste in the landfill. It saves using energy sources, too.

by recycling you're reducing the amount of waste going into landfills as well as helping prevent Excessive use of fossil fuels throughout society—and therefore contributing positively towards climate change mitigation efforts!

Recycling Benefits to Consumers

Recycling saves money for consumers when consumers recycle as well. Commercial businesses should set the tone and expectation for recycling. When well all do it, we save money, energy, the environment and more.

Think about when a consumer could possibly throw away that could be recycled. Plastic bottles and aluminum are often thrown away when they could easily be recycled. Recycling helps save money on materials and energy costs.

It protects our environment from pollution and keeps valuable resources such as metals out of landfills when we all recycle. As a consumer that recycles, you can help reduces our dependence on foreign oil. Are you doing your part to save energy and help our economy?

Conclusion

The benefits of recycling are numerous, and they extend well beyond saving money for businesses and individuals who choose to recycle. We only have one Earth after all!

Commercial recycling is vital to the world's economy and environment. It's important for companies, manufacturers and governments who want to become more sustainable.

There are also many reasons why you should choose a commercial recycling company when it comes time to send away your old materials. Your company should work be sustainable and it will also add a positive reputation.  In Phoenix or anywhere in Arizona or the surrounding areas, we would love to have you send your commercial recycling materials to OERC.

Recycling is the circle of life It's something you do because it's important for your community, for yourself, and for the world we live in.