How to Choose a Recycler
While metro areas naturally tend to have more options for certified recyclers than more rural locations, the R2/RIOS program is all over the country and has expanded internationally, so there’s likely to be a good option near you.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions to ensure you’re making a good recycling choice. If you’re considering taking your computer in to a take-back program at a store, for example, you’ll want to know a few things: Where will the parts go when they’re sorted? Will the date be wiped? Is the recycler certified? Supporting responsible businesses benefits you personally and elevates the industry as a whole. Asking questions shows that people do care about the answers.
“If you’re working with a certified recycler, you’re not only protecting yourself, you’re protecting the folks that are handling your materials and you’re protecting the environment,” Kendall says. “You’re essentially saying, I am supporting this inherently green industry to be even greener and stronger and better.”
Click here to find a certified facility near you.
Editor’s Note: Earth911 partners with many industries, manufacturers and organizations to support its Recycling Directory, the largest in the nation, which is provided to consumers at no cost. Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries is one of these partners.