Reports show that approximately $11.4 billion worth of recyclables enter U.S. landfills every year.
\n\nWhile there are no national mandates requiring individuals to recycle, the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) announced, in November 2020, its ambitious plan to increase American recycling efforts to 50% by 2030.
\n\n\nThe news release quotes EPA Office of Land and Emergency Management assistant administrator Peter Wright as saying, 'Without national leadership on this issue, recycling has lingered in the low 30% range for the last twenty years. The economic and environmental benefits from recycling are clear, and we’ve made a lot of progress, but much more needs to be done to obtain the benefits of increasing the national recycling rate to 50 percent by 2030.'
\n\nWith countries like Germany, South Korea, Sweden, Austria, and Switzerland recycling municipal waste above the 50% mark, it's natural to wonder how places like the United States and Canada have failed to keep up.
\n\nIn this article, we'll discuss...
\n\nAll of the high-volume recycling countries have something in common that is driving these positive numbers: legislation.
\n\nThe success of recycling efforts in other countries can be credited to government policies that encourage it.
\n\nAs the numbers have shown, good funding and financial incentives encourage local and municipal authorities to find solutions to achieve their recycling performance targets.
\n\nIn 2018 alone, an estimated 139 million TONS of recyclable material was sent to U.S. landfills.
\n\n\n\nOnly one type of recyclable material is recycled in America more than it is thrown out, and that's paper and paperboard.
\n\nEven then, there are still millions of tons of paper entering our landfill system.
\n\nAmericans do the worst job at recycling plastic, which is arguably the most important material to recycle.
\n\nAlmost every type of plastic is made from planet-warming fuels like gas, oil, and even sometimes coal.
\n\nBreaking down plastic can take hundreds, even thousands, of years, which is why recycling is so important.
\n\nTo top it off, plastic doesn't just affect the environment, it seeps its way into every aspect of the food chain, from tiny plankton to the fish we eat, causing exposure to toxins for plants, animals, and humans.
\n\nIf the health aspect isn't reason enough to consider changing your waste disposal methods, we'll take a look at financial benefits.
\n\nAn article published in the L.A. Times takes a look at the problem from an energy standpoint.
\n\nIt states the U.S. could save about $12 billion per year in energy costs by increasing the national recycling rate.
\n\nThis is due to the fact that it requires less energy to recycle materials into new products than it does to make new products from virgin materials.
\n\nWith all of this information at our fingertips, it's hard to understand why efforts to increase our national recycling hasn't been more successful.
\n\n\n\n\nAn estimated 74% of Americans have access to curbside recycling, with more rural areas having less access.
\n
More and more large companies have made the switch to recycled packaging to help curb their carbon footprint.
\n\nWhile positive change can take time, the world doesn't have time to wait.
\n\nSome of these statistics are alarming, but it’s important to point out what’s being done at municipal landfills across the country to alleviate part of the problem.
\n\nModern landfills utilize new technology to sort and remove recyclables from the municipal waste stream.
\n\nAdditionally, the EPA states there are a total of 86 landfills in the U.S. utilizing waste-to-energy technology to turn trash into energy by burning waste.
\n\nThe resulting smoke is filtered to ensure it doesn’t harm the environment, and the resulting ash is hauled off to the landfill.
\n\nThe trash incineration process not only produces 2,720 megawatts of power nationwide each year, but it significantly reduces the amount of waste entering landfills.
\n\nThat said, recycling efforts in the U.S. can certainly be improved.
\n\nThis is not an issue that the government or big business is solely responsible for; it starts with individuals.
\n\nThe average American produces more than 4.5 lbs. of trash per day, 80% of which is recyclable.
\n\nAs individuals, we can help improve the state of recycling in the U.S. one empty can at a time.
\n\nAs individuals, there are plenty of ways to help your community's recycling efforts.
\n\nSeparating your trash is the most common and easiest way to minimize your carbon footprint.
\n\nIf you're lucky enough to live in an area that offers curbside recycling, the process is similar to taking out your trash.
\n\nYour recyclable trash, separate and free from all food waste, can be gathered in your recycling bin and taken out to the curb on your area's scheduled collection days.
\n\nSome states, like Michigan, Hawaii, Iowa, and California, have programs in place where consumers are charged a small deposit fee per plastic bottle or aluminum can purchased, and they'll get that deposit fee back only if they return these cans and bottles for recycling.
\n\nIf you live in an area that doesn't offer curbside recycling or a soda can/bottle buy back program, your recycling efforts might be more involved but certainly not impossible.
\n\nYou can search online for recycling centers that accept outside recyclables.
\n\nEarth 9-1-1 is a website that makes finding recycling resources in your area just a click away.
\n\nAdditionally, composting your food and yard waste is a great way to minimize your impact on the environment.
\n\nOrganic waste is biodegradable and comes from either a plant or animal.
\n\nAny food or yard waste falls into this category and will decompose naturally in oxygen-rich conditions.
\n\nThis process is called composting and the result of composting produces humus which is full of nutrients that can then be used to fertilize other growing plants.
\n\nComposting not only minimizes one's environmental impact but is a great way to maintain your small (or large!) home garden.
\n\nKeep reading:
\n\nWith more and more junk removal companies making a commitment to recycle as much waste as possible, it's never been easier to find an earth-friendly junk removal company.
\n\nMany junk removal service providers commit to recycling 60-70% of all waste they remove on their customers' behalf.
\n\nHometown makes it easy to find service providers in your area that will be able to explain their disposal process in detail at your request.
\n\nSome junk removal companies will even provide you with a receipt for your items that they donate which allows you write off the amount donated on your taxes.
\n\nFor people who go the DIY route and rent a dumpster to throw out their junk on their own, clean loading a dumpster is also a great way to make recycling easier.
\n\nClean loading a dumpster simply means that you load a dumpster with the same type of recyclable material.
\n\nFor demolition or home improvement projects, you might be able to clean load your dumpster with only asphalt or only wood.
\n\nThis allows for an easy dump at a recycling center rather than mixing in other waste, like food or textiles, in with your clean loaded dumpster.
\n\nRecycling in today's world is much easier than it was in the past and with experienced junk removal services available to guide you with local resources, there's no reason to be intimidated at the process.
\n\nLearn more:
\n\nReports show that approximately $11.4 billion worth of recyclables enter U.S. landfills every year. While there are no national mandates requiring individuals to recycle, the EPA announced in November 2020 its ambitious plan to increase American recycling efforts to 50% by 2030.
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\r\n\r\nNot all wastes are destined for the trash can.
\r\n\r\nIf you have large amounts of debris, or you have items that are banned by your local waste hauler, you need to find the right disposal option.
\r\n\r\nBelow we’ll take a look at various types of wastes and the best ways to dispose of them.
\r\n\r\n\r\nLearn how to properly dispose of:
\r\n\r\nThere are several ways to dispose of unwanted junk or debris, and each has its place.
\r\n\r\nThis is the best possible option because it's great for the environment and your wallet.
\r\n\r\nAlways recycle, reuse, or donate materials when you can.
\r\n\r\nIf this is not an option, then it's time to start considering the next disposal options.
\r\n\r\nDumpsters come in a wide range of sizes, from 3 cubic yard dumpster bags to full-size 40 cubic yard construction dumpsters.
\r\n\r\nIt’s an ideal solution for construction, demolition, house cleanouts, roofing, yard waste disposal, and recycling in bulk.
\r\n\r\nThis is a great option for disposal of e-waste, tough-to-dispose-of wastes, and bulk amounts of debris.
\r\n\r\nIt’s a convenient option—they handle all the removal and disposal for you.
\r\n\r\nIt can become costly for larger cleanups, so it’s something to consider when deciding between renting a dumpster and hiring a junk hauling service.
\r\n\r\nIf you have a truck and/or trailer, hauling the debris yourself to a local landfill is always an option.
\r\n\r\nThe advantage of this method is the lower cost of disposal compared to renting a roll-off, although the tradeoff is less convenience and speed.
\r\n\r\nThe time it takes you to drive and drop off the debris at the nearest landfill can be substantial.
\r\n\r\nAlso, hazardous materials require a permit to haul, so do your due diligence as to the laws in your area regarding the types of waste you are allowed to haul and the types of debris accepted at local landfills (e.g., some accept only C&D debris and not household trash).
\r\n\r\nHousehold hazardous waste (HHW) facilities safely process and recycle potentially toxic wastes, such as e-waste, household cleaners, paint, chemicals, medicines, and liquids.
\r\n\r\nSome communities host HHW events on an annual or biannual basis.
\r\n\r\nFind the nearest HHW drop off location online by visiting Earth911.com.
\r\n\r\nAnd now, let’s discuss specific types of wastes and how to properly get rid of each type.
\r\n\r\nExamples: household garbage, furniture, broken toys, packaging materials
\r\n\r\nThis category of waste includes anything you’d typically put in your waste bin.
\r\n\r\nGenerally, this category of waste is taken care of via your waste hauler’s curbside collection service.
\r\n\r\nHowever, there are situations that require additional means, like hoarding situations, foreclosure cleanups, moving, and special events that generate a lot of trash.
\r\n\r\nWhen you have more than your curbside roll cart can handle, a roll-off container works great for bulk amounts of household trash.
\r\n\r\nAlternatively, hiring a junk removal company to pick up the trash for you is a convenient disposal method, too, and it may be a more cost-effective option for smaller jobs (less than a few cubic yards of waste).
\r\n\r\nYou could also haul these wastes to the landfill yourself if you live within close proximity of one.
\r\n\r\nDisposal of appliances containing Freon, paints, liquids, lead-acid batteries, fluorescent light bulbs, and other household hazardous wastes (HHWs) require special handling.
\r\n\r\nThese wastes shouldn’t be mixed in with your household garbage.
\r\n\r\nContact your city’s solid waste department to find the nearest HHW facility, or visit the city’s website for more information.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nExamples: lumber, drywall (sheetrock), wood flooring, carpeting, renovation debris, roofing debris
\r\n\r\nResidential and commercial construction or demolition projects require the use of a dumpster, junk removal company, or driving the debris to the landfill yourself.
\r\n\r\nSome U.S. cities require C&D debris to be dropped off at dedicated construction and demolition landfill facilities where it is separated and recycled.
\r\n\r\nConcrete
\r\n\r\nLike asphalt, this is a very heavy, dense debris that is best disposed of in a roll-off dumpster.
\r\n\r\nMost dumpster rental companies require concrete to be separated from other wastes, and it must be loaded in a smaller container, such as a 10 yard bin, to ensure it does not become too heavy of a load for the roll-off truck to handle.
\r\n\r\nRoofing Shingles
\r\n\r\nThis is a heavy debris that is generally loaded in its own dumpster and not in mixed loads.
\r\n\r\nShingles are recycled in most municipalities.
\r\n\r\nWood/Lumber
\r\n\r\nWood has a potential to be reused if salvaged properly.
\r\n\r\nReclaiming wood and selling or donating it is one way to cut down on disposal costs for a project.
\r\n\r\nCarpeting
\r\n\r\nA junk removal company offers the most convenient disposal solution in this case.
\r\n\r\nRenting a dumpster or having your waste hauler pick it up are also valid options.
\r\n\r\nMany waste haulers require the carpeting to be cut down to a specified length (e.g., 4 ft. lengths), so that may add to the inconvenience of going this route.
\r\n\r\nWood/Laminate Flooring
\r\n\r\nThis material is salvageable in many cases.
\r\n\r\nThis would, again, help cut down on disposal costs.
\r\n\r\nIf reclaiming the wood isn’t an option, other cost-effective solutions include renting a roll-off or hiring a junk removal company to pick it up.
\r\n\r\nSiding
\r\n\r\nCertain types of siding, such as cedar, are highly desirable, and people will often take it off your hands.
\r\n\r\nThis is great for cutting down on disposal costs.
\r\n\r\nSimply posting a listing on Craigslist is an easy way to accomplish getting rid of cedar or wood siding.
\r\n\r\nVinyl siding is typically disposed of in a dumpster or picked up by a junk removal company.
\r\n\r\nA dumpster is generally the more cost-effective option for a whole-house siding replacement project.
\r\n\r\nKitchen/Bathroom Renovation
\r\n\r\nThis includes cabinets, tubs, sinks, toilets, countertops, and floors.
\r\n\r\nMuch of this material can be reclaimed. Other materials can be disposed of in a roll-off container or via junk removal service.
\r\n\r\nMost waste haulers do not accept renovation debris via curbside service.
\r\n\r\nHowever, some will by appointment for an additional fee.
\r\n\r\nMetals
\r\n\r\nBulk amounts of steel, aluminum, copper, and other metals should be recycled.
\r\n\r\nMetal is a valuable commodity.
\r\n\r\nYou can eliminate disposal costs and make a few bucks by dropping off metal scraps at a local scrap yard.
\r\n\r\nIf you cannot DIY, some metal recyclers may be able to pick it up, or you can post an ad on Craigslist.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nExamples: tree limbs, bush trimmings, grass clippings
\r\n\r\nBeing that it’s an organic waste, yard debris is best disposed by composting, but dumpsters and junk removal companies are good options, too.
\r\n\r\nDumpster companies and junk removal service providers will drop off the yard wastes at the proper facility.
\r\n\r\n*Most waste haulers don’t allow yard debris mixed in with general waste.
\r\n\r\nHeavy yard wastes, such as large logs, are best handled by professionals who have the right equipment to safely load and haul away such debris.
\r\n\r\nMost junk removal companies have the right equipment to take on this type of project.
\r\n\r\nConsider starting a compost pile if you have the room to do so.
\r\n\r\nIt’s the easiest and least expensive way to get rid of yard debris, plus it produces nutrient-rich compost ideal for farming, landscaping, and flower gardens.
\r\n\r\nBe sure you know the laws regarding yard waste disposal in your area.
\r\n\r\nSome cities have made yard debris composting mandatory.
\r\n\r\nIn this case, you’d need to have the debris dropped off at the proper composting facility.
\r\n\r\nIt may not be accepted at the municipal landfill, so be sure to do your due diligence.
\r\n\r\nSearch your city’s solid waste authority website or give them a call to learn more.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nExamples: kitchen stove (range), microwave, washer, dryer, dishwasher, refrigerator
\r\n\r\nHiring a junk removal company for removal of one or several appliances is a quick and cost-effective method of removal. Junk haulers charge a minimum fee of anywhere from $50 to $125, so expect to be charged at least that amount for the appliance removal.
\r\n\r\nA dumpster works well for disposal of a whole home's worth of appliances, such as during a major renovation project or demolition.
\r\n\r\nChoose a bigger dumpster than you think you need.
\r\n\r\nWhy? Most roll-off containers have rounded bottoms, while most appliances are bulky and square.
\r\n\r\nSo while you may have 10 cubic yards worth of appliances (think of 10 kitchen stoves, which approximately equals 10 cubic yards), the appliances will consume greater than 10 cubic yards worth of space inside a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nIn this example, a 20 yard bin may be the better choice.
\r\n\r\nSave on disposal costs by donating working appliances to local charitable organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity.
\r\n\r\nSome locations may even pick them up for free, so be sure to ask!
\r\n\r\nAlternatively, you can sell appliances that are still in good shape via Craigslist, Facebook, or by other means.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nExamples: lead-acid batteries, fluorescent bulbs, household cleaners, motor oil, chemicals
\r\n\r\nThis class of wastes should never be mixed in with the general waste stream, so avoid putting household hazardous wastes in the waste bin, dumpsters, burning it, burying it, or using any other unsafe disposal method. Doing so can taint drinking water, harm local wildlife, produce unsafe crops at local farms, and pollute the air.
\r\n\r\nDispose of HHWs by dropping them off at a local HHW processing facility.
\r\n\r\nSome communities also host annual or biannual HHW pickup events where you can drop off a wide range of hazardous wastes found in your home.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies, and some dumpster rental providers, will accept HHWs if you discuss it beforehand.
\r\n\r\nThere may or may not be additional fees for handling/hauling of hazardous materials—it depends upon the company and local laws governing HHW handling.
\r\n\r\nFind a household hazardous waste recycler near you.
\r\n\r\nHere’s a quick breakdown of common types of HHWs:
\r\n\r\nBatteries
\r\n\r\nCommon A, AA, AAA, D, and similar dry-cell batteries can be thrown away with your trash.
\r\n\r\nHowever, car batteries and other larger batteries need to be properly recycled.
\r\n\r\nLiquids
\r\n\r\nThis includes motor oil, antifreeze, household cleaners, fuel, and other toxic/flammable liquids.
\r\n\r\nMotor oil can be safely dropped off for recycling at a local oil change facility or car dealership that provides service.
\r\n\r\nOther liquids can usually be dropped off at an HHW facility or cleanup event.
\r\n\r\nLight Bulbs
\r\n\r\nFluorescent bulbs (CFLs) shouldn’t be mixed in with household trash.
\r\n\r\nThey contain small amounts of mercury.
\r\n\r\nDrop these off at the nearest recycling facility that accepts CFLs.
\r\n\r\nSome retailers, such as Lowe's and IKEA, also accept CFLs for proper recycling.
\r\n\r\nLearn more about CFL recycling.
\r\n\r\nMedicines
\r\n\r\nDispose of medications at your local cleanup event or HHW processing facility.
\r\n\r\nIf you do not have access to this type of event or facility, you can dispose of medicines in the following manner:
\r\n\r\nExplosives
\r\n\r\nHighly-flammable, combustible, and explosive wastes can be dangerous when mixed in with the general waste stream.
\r\n\r\nLocal laws dictate the proper way to dispose of wastes, like fuel, oil, fireworks, lighter fluid, matches, and others.
\r\n\r\nPaint
\r\n\r\nWet paint must be dried before throwing it away.
\r\n\r\nYou can mix bulk amounts of paint with sand or similar material to dry it quickly.
\r\n\r\nYou can safely throw empty, dry paint cans into the trash or a rented dumpster.
\r\n\r\nThe one exception is if the paint is very old and may contain lead.
\r\n\r\nIt is unlikely this will be an issue considering lead paint was banned in 1978 (although lead-based paint was still sold for several years after that).
\r\n\r\nIf it’s a very old can of paint you need to dispose of, play it safe and bring it to a local recycling facility for proper disposal.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nExamples: paper, cardboard, plastics, metal
\r\n\r\nDespite the slight downturn in recycling noted in recent years, access to recycling services is pretty extensive these days. For bulk amounts of recyclables, you have several options:
\r\n\r\nRenting a dumpster is a quick and easy option for DIYers.
\r\n\r\nClean load it with recyclable materials only and the rental company may offer a discount.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal is usually more expensive than renting a dumpster but much more convenient.
\r\n\r\nDropping recyclables off at a recycling center is the most cost-effective method for handling a low volume of recyclables.
\r\n\r\nPosting an ad on Craigslist or Freecycle is another cheap and convenient way to get rid of recyclables.
\r\n\r\nThe potential downsides include having to wait potentially days or weeks (if ever) before finding someone to pick it up, and this method is generally limited to working well for valuable recyclables, such as metals.
\r\n\r\nBring scrap metals, like copper pipes, steel, brass fittings, iron, junk cars, etc., to a local metal scrap yard to get paid for your scraps.
\r\n\r\nSome recycling facilities will even purchase bulk amounts of paper, cardboard, and plastics.
\r\n\r\nFor example, Padnos is a full-service recycler serving most of the State of Michigan and will purchase most types of recyclables (in bulk amounts).
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFood and organic scraps can be composted.
\r\n\r\nNot all food scraps are ideal for composting, however.
\r\n\r\nWastes that are excellent compost materials include:
\r\n\r\nSee a complete list of compostable items and learn how to get started.
\r\n\r\nDo not compost meats, cheeses/dairy, plastics, fats, dirty paper/paper towels, breads, dog/cat wastes (grass-eating animal wastes are ok), or processed foods.
\r\n\r\nIf you have a bulk amount of food or organic waste to dispose of, discuss solutions with your waste hauler or a dumpster rental provider near you.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nTires are banned for disposal in landfills in the majority of states within the United States.
\r\n\r\nInstead, they can be recycled or reused.
\r\n\r\nBring old automobile tires to a tire retailer for recycling.
\r\n\r\nThere may be a small fee involved in some cases.
\r\n\r\nAlternatively, you can sell or give away tires that still have some tread left.
\r\n\r\nRecyclers, artists, and companies that work with rubber may also take them off your hands for free.
\r\n\r\nPost an ad on Craigslist, Facebook, or Freecycle.org to get started.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies also haul away tires, and this is a cost-effective and convenient option if you have a large number of tires to offload.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFound on drywall, paint, roofing materials, and other building materials.
\r\n\r\nThese toxic substances are more prevalent in older homes or commercial buildings.
\r\n\r\nBefore starting a renovation, demolition, or construction project in an older home, be sure to have it tested for asbestos, mold, and lead paint.
\r\n\r\nAsbestos
\r\n\r\nAsbestos fibers are released into the air when affected material, such as drywall, is disturbed.
\r\n\r\nLeft alone, asbestos isn’t harmful.
\r\n\r\nIt’s during renovation or demolition that the asbestos is released into the air.
\r\n\r\nExposure can lead to lung cancer, mesothelioma, and lung problems.
\r\n\r\nMold
\r\n\r\nAvoid dangerous mold by controlling moisture inside your home, repairing leaks, and cleaning up after natural disasters.
\r\n\r\nMold can often hide behind walls.
\r\n\r\nIf you spot a large area of it, it’s best to leave the removal to the professionals.
\r\n\r\nIn terms of disposal, a mold removal specialist will properly discard of the materials for you.
\r\n\r\nOtherwise, you can dispose of small quantities of moldy materials in a dumpster if the debris is bagged or wrapped in plastic.
\r\n\r\nLead Paint
\r\n\r\nHow you dispose of lead paint debris depends upon how much of it is present and what your state’s laws are regarding disposal.
\r\n\r\nIf a sample of the debris contains less than 100 milligrams of lead per kilogram, you can typically dispose of it like regular municipal waste.
\r\n\r\nIf concentrations of lead are greater than that benchmark, special disposal procedures must be followed.
\r\n\r\nIt’s best to hire a lead paint abatement specialist to test for lead paint and to dispose of it if necessary.
\r\n\r\nTo summarize, asbestos materials always require special disposal procedures, while mold and lead paint tainted debris can be disposed of the same way you would any other C&D debris as long as the levels are low.
\r\n\r\nRent a dumpster for larger cleanups, or hire a junk hauler to come pick up smaller amounts of debris.
\r\n\r\nAlways inform the rental company or junk removal provider that the debris is tainted.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nExamples: motor oil, antifreeze, transmission fluid, cleaners, brake fluid
\r\n\r\nMost chemicals and liquids are required to be disposed of at a licensed household hazardous waste (HHW) facility.
\r\n\r\nCities that do not have such a facility will typically hold HHW collection events once or twice per year where you can drop off chemicals and other hazardous wastes.
\r\n\r\nUsed motor oil can be brought to an oil change facility or auto parts store for proper recycling.
\r\n\r\nCall ahead just to be sure.
\r\n\r\nNever dispose of auto fluids or chemicals in the trashcan or a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nRefer to Earth911 for more information and to find a local automotive fluids recycler near you.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nExamples: computers, TVs, VCRs, DVD players, tablets, phones, other electronic devices
\r\n\r\nElectronic waste, or e-waste, is growing in the U.S., and proper disposal of this debris is often misunderstood.
\r\n\r\nMost e-waste is not allowed in the general waste stream; it should be properly recycled to avoid heavy metal contamination and other potential hazards.
\r\n\r\nSome states, including California and New York, have banned disposal of e-waste in landfills or waste-to-energy (WTE) facilities.
\r\n\r\nInstead of throwing e-waste in the trash, it should go to the proper recycling facility.
\r\n\r\nWhat to Do with E-Waste
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nThere are a number of ways to dispose of various wastes, debris, and junk, but how do you know the best way to get rid of your items? Learn the most cost-efficient and eco-friendly disposal options for nearly every type of debris.
\r\n","changed":"2023-09-05T17:32:19+00:00"},{"id":"cbdb3b53-9a28-5eae-8001-460da17f460c","title":"What Does the World's Most Sustainable City Look Like?","url":"/blog/the-worlds-most-sustainable-city","image":{"path":"/static/a0673f3f31324e7e8af0cf34ee0b47d3/masdar-city-master-plan-640x466.jpg","alt":"Masdar City sustainable design"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"8a088d18-16c4-5f32-8898-b75d5543d9fa","name":"Environment","slug":"Environment"},{"id":"8a556635-2a85-5e01-a170-d18bb873bb0e","name":"Sustainability","slug":"Sustainability"}],"content":"An artist's rendering of Masdar City
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Smack dab in the middle of the desert is the location of one of the world’s greenest cities. Masdar City is located in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The city is actually still in the early stages of being developed, but several buildings are fully operational, including the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology.
\r\n\r\nThe Masdar Institute of Science and Technology
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Masdar City addresses every sustainability issue you could ever think of:
\r\n\r\nSince the focus of Trash Talk is waste/trash/garbage, that’s the part of the city’s master plan we were most intrigued by. Phase 1 of Masdar City’s waste management plan will divert 50 percent of all waste away from landfills, or the equivalent of about 11,000 metric tons. The plan is to sort waste into three main streams: dry recyclables (i.e., cans and cardboard), wet recyclables (i.e., food scraps) and residuals (i.e., empty food containers). Dry recyclables will be shipped to the recycling center while wet recyclables will be composted and used for landscaping purposes. Other residual waste, including toxic waste, will be handled outside the city.
\r\n\r\nIs Masdar City the city of the future? It very well could be. However, it’s tough to say for sure until the city is fully developed and operational. This won’t happen until 2025 assuming everything stays on schedule. On paper, the city looks incredible and is amazingly eco-friendly. That said, there’s no way of knowing how accurate this will translate in real life. My best guess is that Masdar City succeeds in developing the most sustainable city in the world. However, it comes with a steep price – estimates put the price tag at around $18 to $19 billion.
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\r\nImages via: Masdar City Official Website
Smack dab in the middle of the desert is the location of one of the world’s greenest cities. Masdar City is located in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The city is actually still in the early stages of being developed, but several buildings are fully operational, including the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology.
\r\n","changed":"2023-09-05T17:34:24+00:00"},{"id":"e4330393-eacd-54f6-ba04-8ffcbda8728b","title":"Comparing the Cost of Junk Removal to Dumpster Rental","url":"/blog/comparing-the-cost-of-junk-removal-to-dumpster-rental","image":{"path":"/static/63661a10d8a316fe97c44935ca6333db/dumpster-rental-and-junk-removal-cost-comparison.png","alt":"dumpster rental and junk removal cost comparison"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"59e80e10-b42a-5876-8471-f7ca60fbc75e","name":"Dumpster Costs","slug":"Dumpster-Costs"},{"id":"58c950b5-f4ae-5829-8cae-bf1a2ddaac1c","name":"Junk Removal Costs","slug":"Junk-Removal-Costs"}],"content":"When it comes to any sort of bulk waste or debris removal, your two best options are hiring a junk removal company or renting a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nBut how do you know which is the most cost-effective option for you?
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\r\n\r\n\r\nCosts can vary greatly when renting a dumpster or hiring a junk hauler and are based on multiple factors.
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We'll go over:
\r\n\r\nA dumpster costs $250-$450 on average to rent, but as we've mentioned, prices can vary.
\r\n\r\nDumpsters are typically the most cost-effective option for medium to large projects or when you need to manage debris during an ongoing project.
\r\n\r\nA kitchen or bathroom renovation, house addition, demolition project, or large deck removal job are projects where a dumpster may be the more economical solution.
\r\n\r\nHaving a dumpster on-site for bigger projects allows you to fill it up at your convenience while keeping a clean, safe site.
\r\n\r\nBelow are a few real-world examples of dumpster rental costs around the country to help give you a general idea of what to expect.
\r\n\r\n| Dumpster Size | \r\n\t\t\tLocation | \r\n\t\t\tCost | \r\n\t\t
| 10 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tMarietta, GA | \r\n\t\t\t$275 | \r\n\t\t
| 10 yard roll-off dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tYonkers, NY | \r\n\t\t\t$300 | \r\n\t\t
| 15 yard roll-off dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tWorcester, MA | \r\n\t\t\t$350 | \r\n\t\t
| 30 yard debris box | \r\n\t\t\tLos Angeles, CA | \r\n\t\t\t$400 | \r\n\t\t
| 40 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tSpringfield, IL | \r\n\t\t\t$550 | \r\n\t\t
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Learn more about pricing:
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies charge a minimum amount for any junk removal, with the average around $75 to $100.
\r\n\r\nIf you have one or two items you’re getting rid of—like a TV, sofa, or mattress—you’ll probably be charged the minimum amount.
\r\n\r\nFor small cleanups, junk removal is typically the more cost-effective option.
\r\n\r\nA junk removal company may remove a small garage-worth of items for $200 when it may cost you $250 to rent a 10 yard bin to do the loading yourself.
\r\n\r\nIn this case, junk removal is the cheaper (and less back-breaking) option.
\r\n\r\nBelow are a few real-world examples of junk removal costs around the country to help give you a general idea of what to expect.
\r\n\r\n| Junk Removal Description | \r\n\t\t\tLocation | \r\n\t\t\tCost | \r\n\t\t
| Refrigerator removal | \r\n\t\t\tManhattan Beach, CA | \r\n\t\t\t$165 | \r\n\t\t
| Removal of 2 TVs | \r\n\t\t\tOmaha, NE | \r\n\t\t\t$45 | \r\n\t\t
| Living room set removal (sectional couch, two china cabinets) | \r\n\t\t\tToms River, NJ | \r\n\t\t\t$169 | \r\n\t\t
| Storage unit cleanout | \r\n\t\t\tSandy, UT | \r\n\t\t\t$375 | \r\n\t\t
| Hoarding home cleanout | \r\n\t\t\tFranklin, MA | \r\n\t\t\t$1,500 | \r\n\t\t
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Remember: Every project is different, so calling at least two dumpster rental and two junk removal companies to compare pricing is the best way to determine the most economical debris removal solution.
\r\nDumpster rental and junk removal costs vary based on a number of factors, including the type and amount of debris, where you're located, the accessibility of your property, and who you hire.
\r\n\r\nYour exact project cost will depend on these factors, and the best way to get an accurate estimate for your rental or project is to reach out to multiple service providers in your area for a quote.
\r\n\r\nThis not only ensures you get the best price but also allows you to choose the best company for the job, not just the cheapest.
\r\n\r\nDo you live out in the country or far off the beaten path?
\r\n\r\nIf so, you can expect your dumpster rental or junk removal service to cost more due to the cost of travel incurred by the company.
\r\n\r\nCost of living and local disposal fees also play a large role in cost.
\r\n\r\nFor example, you’ll pay significantly more in New York City to rent a dumpster than you would in Memphis, TN based on the difference in cost of living.
\r\n\r\nYou'll also likely pay more for an apartment cleanout that requires hauling items up and down flights of stairs compared to the same size cleanout in the same zip code that is conveniently located on the first floor.
\r\n\r\nSome service providers—dumpster and junk removal—charge differently for household wastes vs. construction and demolition (C&D) debris.
\r\n\r\nC&D debris is often heavier, so it may end up costing more to haul away than general household trash.
\r\n\r\nThe heavier the load, the more you’ll pay.
\r\n\r\nFor junk removal, costs rise as the volume of junk increases.
\r\n\r\nA full truckload of junk, for example, costs more than a load taking up just half of the truck’s total capacity.
\r\n\r\nLikewise, if you exceed the weight limit of your dumpster rental you'll likely be hit with overage fees.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\nThe two best ways to remove bulk waste are to either rent a dumpster or hire a junk removal company, but which option is the most cost-effective? Learn about the average costs associated with each service to determine which is the best option for your project.
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