Yellow Pages’ Data Show Recycling Trends

Metal continues to be one of the country’s most recycled materials, according to Yellow Pages, whose data shows that 21 percent of total calls are from users looking for a place to drop off their aluminum.

Consumers have also shown an increased interest in recycling bulky items.  Auto parts, computers, VCRs, and refrigerators account for 20 percent of Yellow Pages’ references. Six years ago, bulky items didn’t even register as a reference for local searches.

Other popular searches include:

• Copper and scrap metal (16 percent)
• Paper and newspapers (13 percent)
• Glass, bottles and plastic (7 percent)

“Americans have long been aware of the importance of recycling paper and aluminum products, but now we’re seeing increased awareness of the need to recycle home appliances, TVs, and cell phones – items that can have a more detrimental impact on the environment if not recycled properly,” said Amy Healy, director of public policy for the Yellow Pages Association.

Also, the data shows that young adults are leading recycling efforts. Users of the “Recycling Centers” heading in Yellow Pages are more likely to be between the ages of 25 and 34, have an income between $25,000 and $60,000, reside in a household with three or more persons, and reside at their current address for less than a year.