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You do your part for the environment by recycling whatever you can and trying to reduce your carbon footprint whenever possible. Recycling is one of the best things you can do for the planet, but what happens to all those HI-5 cans afterward?

HI-5 is the Hawaii Deposit Beverage Container Program, a state-funded initiative that includes a 5 cent deposit on any beverage container that is accepted for recycling. A container that qualifies will have the HI-5 symbol on it and could contain anything from soda to juice or sparkling water. Recycling Kapolei, HIOne goal of the program is to eliminate cans from the public waste stream and do away with litter throughout the state.

When HI-5 cans are recycled, they’re compacted into a bale or large block. The bales are shredded into coin-size pieces and heated in molds to create chunks.

These chunks travel on a conveyer belt through a machine several times to flatten them into smooth, thin sheets. The sheets are rolled up and distributed to different manufacturers. Recycled scrap metal can be used to create many items, including cans, building elements, car bodies, airplane parts, and bicycles.  

It pays to recycle in Hawaii — in more ways than one. In addition to receiving a redeemable 5 cent deposit for each HI-5 can, you’ll also enjoy the benefits of preserving the state’s beauty and ensuring it doesn’t suffer adverse effects of unnecessary waste.

Kapolei-based Island Recycling Inc. is a leading recycling and hauling services company in Hawaii. Bring your HI-5 cans to one of their three locations to receive your deposit and do your part to help the planet. Visit their website to learn more about items they recycle and find a location near you, and call at (808) 682-9200 for more information.

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