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How to Recycle Aluminum Cans for Profit

Recycling aluminum cans is great for the environment; it's also a good way to earn a bit of money. According to the Wastecare Corporation, "The cost to recycle a can is less than manufacturing a new can. The aluminum can is 100% recyclable and can be recycled indefinitely." Typically, aluminum recycling centers are located in and around towns and cities. Most aluminum recycling centers offer money in exchange for aluminum cans; the amount you're paid is based on their weight.

Things You'll Need

Aluminum cans
Can crusher
Storage container

Instructions

- 1
  Collect the aluminum cans. In addition to collecting your own aluminum cans, ask your neighbors, friends and family if you can recycle their cans. Some businesses have recycling programs, while others don't. Ask the businesses in your area if you can collect aluminum cans. If so, provide the business with a storage container and let a contact person know which days you'll be emptying the container for recycling.
- 2
  Empty the cans. Aluminum cans should be emptied of all contents before recycling. It's not necessary to rinse out the cans but, it's best to make sure the cans are empty and dry.
- 3
  Crush the cans. You can crush aluminum cans by stepping on them or you can buy a can crusher. Aluminum cans must be crushed before a recycling center will accept them.
- 4
  Locate an aluminum recycling center. You can look up contact information for a recycling center in the phone book or you can visit a website that provides recycling center location information. Earth911.com will provide the address to an aluminum recycling center based on your zip code.
- 5
  Transport the aluminum cans to a recycling center. Typically, recycling centers have a station where cans are weighed, then a receipt is given. The receipt will show the amount owed to you; you then take the receipt to a designated cashier and receive your money.

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