According to the Environmental Protection Agency 75% of waste generated by Americans is recyclable, but only 30% of that waste is actually recycled each year, which means valuable items that could be restored and reused end up in landfills. Are you recycling all of the household items you can? Check out the following list to find out.

5 Recyclable Household Items

1. Electronics

Recycling old TVs, laptops, computers, and cell phones can significantly reduce your waste footprint. In addition to reusable materials such as metal and glass, these electronics also contain toxic substances like lead and mercury, so they need to be properly disposed of through an e-recycling program—go to ecyclingcentral.com to find one near you.

2. Aluminum Foil

Even though aluminum foil is reusable, recycling is not guaranteed if you throw it in your blue bin without a thought. If it’s covered with food and grease, most curbside disposal services won’t accept it. To avoid this, thoroughly clean your used pieces of foil and separate them from all other items.

3. Batteries

If you’ve been tossing single-use alkaline batteries into the garbage can, stop now. According to the Corporation for Battery Responsibility, many of the materials in them, such as steel, manganese, and zinc, are vital reusable resources. Recycling batteries is also a simple process, as many retailers offer free drop-off sites. Visit calltorecycle.org to find a location convenient for you.

4. CDs & DVDs

CDs and DVDs are made from stable, recyclable materials like plastic and oil that can be reused to construct everything from office equipment to street lights. However, according to the CD Recycling Center of America, they can emit harmful substances and should be taken to a recycling center instead of placed in a curbside bin. 

5. Fluorescent Light Bulbs

Fluorescent bulbs should never end up in a landfill because, like CDs and electronics, they contain hazardous materials. However, virtually all of their components can be reused, and some states even require these bulbs be recycled.

Start reducing your waste footprint by contacting Honolulu Disposal Service today. For more than 50 years, they’ve proven they are “In it for the long haul” by providing superior recycling and dumpster services to homes and business on Oahu, HI. Check out their website or call (808) 845-7581 to learn more about what they accept for recycling.