Republic Services emphasizes importance of reducing contamination for America Recycles Day

As Americans continue to struggle with recycling, Phoenix-based Republic Services is reminding consumers in the run up to America Recycles Day on Nov. 15 that they can make a positive environmental impact by focusing on properly disposing of two common items: aluminum cans and plastic water bottles.

Most Americans believe recycling is important, but they don't always do it correctly. Approximately 30 percent of what consumers place in their curbside recycling bins does not belong there.

As communities across the U.S. get ready to participate in America Recycles Day, Republic notes that individuals can simplify their recycling habits and reduce the use of natural resources by focusing on two items with the biggest impact. 

1. Aluminum cans: Aluminum is infinitely recyclable and provides unrivaled sustainability benefits, Republic says. It's possible to recycle an aluminum can and put it back on store shelves within 30 days. And, recycling just one aluminum can saves enough energy to run a television for three hours.
2. Plastic water bottles: Americans buy approximately 50 billion plastic bottles of water a year, yet only one in four bottles is recycled. Most plastic water bottles can be recycled to make new bottles and many other everyday products, including synthetic fiber for clothing and carpet.

Recycling simplified at home and in the classroom 
In an effort to introduce positive recycling habits at a young age, Republic Services employees will visit classrooms in several cities on America Recycles Day to teach lessons from the company’s Recycling Simplified education program. This free, downloadable curriculum was designed for teachers for pre-kindergarten through twelfth grades to help incorporate recycling education in schools. The lesson plans educate students on real-world sustainability and proper recycling practices. These programs also incorporate individual grade-level curriculum standards in multiple disciplines.