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Aluminum: The Ultimate Recyclable

Recycling Education
image of aluminum cans and text, "aluminum: the ultimate recyclable"

ALUMINUM IS THE *ULTIMATE* RECYCLABLE!

Aluminum is one of the most valuable materials in the recycling stream — and for good reason.

It can be recycled again and again. Unlike some materials, aluminum does not lose its basic quality during the recycling process.

It saves a lot of energy. Making aluminum from recycled material uses about 95% less energy than making it from raw materials. 

It moves quickly. In the U.S., a recycled aluminum beverage can can be back as a newly formed can in less than 60 days. 

It has real value. The Aluminum Association estimates the U.S. economy could save more than $1 billion each year if all aluminum beverage cans were recycled. 

And it’s not just cans! Other aluminum items may also be recyclable, including siding, gutters, storm window frames, lawn furniture, foil, and some aluminum packaging.

Just be sure to check with your local transfer station first. Not every facility accepts the same materials.

The bottom line? Don’t toss it. Recycle it right.

Want to share these aluminum recycling facts with your community? Download our free half-page printable flyer:

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This material is based upon work supported under a grant by the Rural Utilities Service, United States Department of Agriculture. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Rural Utilities Service. Rural Community Assistance Partnership, Inc., is an equal opportunity provider and employer.