5 Ways to Make Money Recycling

Before you start envisioning a garage full of cans and plastic goods, read on. The world of recycling has changed in the last decade and, with a few lifestyle adjustments you can reap big rewards. Not only does product reuse help you collect extra money, it is environmentally responsible.

1. Paper Products
The going rate on one ton of paper is roughly $50. If you subscribe to the local paper, use paper in your house, or get junk mail, paper collection could be an ongoing moneymaker for you. Unless you plan on dropping off monthly or weekly to a local collection center clear a small space in the garage to stack paper. Routinely stack junk mail, newspaper, and computer paper in the designated area.

2. Aluminum Cans
Currently the rate for one pound of aluminum is $1.30. Many collection spots have reverse vending machines--pour the cans in and cash out. A large kitchen bag will pay out $3.50 at that rate. Keep a bag in the kitchen and review with family members what to put in it. If you have multiple children, make it a game of how many cans or bottles each child can collect in a week. When you combine your own recyclables with your neighbors' the price tag adds up.

3. Cell Phones
Before relegating last month's model to the closet floor, check with TradeMyPhone.com to see if you can score cash for it. Several phones in good condition will pay out pretty well, especially since the average new phone purchase is six months.

4. Plastics
While many plastic products are non-recyclable, some are. Consider water bottles, drink containers, cups, and lids. Simple because the arrow logo was printed on the container does not mean it may be deposited.  To make the most of your time call the collection agency to verify exactly what products may be deposited.  

5. Batteries
Household, car, and rechargeable batteries are in high demand. Currently car batteries can earn up to $4.50 and sometime more. Centers will pay out $150 per ton of the household variety.

Several sanitation departments charge extra to recycle your goods--by all means, avoid this! Become your neighborhood recycling advocate. Select one Saturday a month when you visit houses in your area to collect cans, glass jars, paper, and plastics. Let your neighbors know in advance what will be picked up and how they can store the products.

Most people want to recycle but don't take the time to find out what can be collected and where to deposit their trash. If you take the initiative to do the legwork for them, you'll reap the financial benefits as well. Think of it as a sort of backwards paper route. You might even consider hiring a neighborhood kid to help you with the pick up each week.