The trends in recycling have changed over the years, notes Acuna. While paper and aluminum cans were the most common household materials for a long time, a shift toward technology has undoubtedly occurred.
"Electronics are the big thing now. Obviously 10-15 years ago we didn't consider what the heck we were going to do with all these computers that we were selling and marketing. Now, computers are a challenge. Computers are being recycled, but the challenge is how to do it economically."
As a result, many companies are looking to the government for guidance.
"There has been some talk of legislation asking that the manufacturers be responsible for take-back programs. In other words, Hewlett Packard, Dell, Gateway, and Apple might create a system where the consumer pays an additional $5, $10, $15 at the time of purchase for recycling, the way we do with tires."
He continues, explaining how the system works.
"You pay a tire disposal fee when you buy a new tire, which basically allows for the recycling of that tire when its life has ended." A similar program could be put in place to overcome the hurdles currently associated with recycling computers.
"Monitors seem to be the most difficult item of all to be recycled because of the lead content in the tubes and in the monitor glass itself. Some states that have outlawed disposal of monitors in landfills, so, it's a challenge," says Acuna.
Of course, there are several items that are much easier to recycle such as cardboard, ink cartridges for household printers, and of course, paper.
Recycling world offers many suggestions and links on their website at www.recycle.net. You can also find ideas at The Internet Consumer Recycling Guide at www.obviously.com/recycle.
Beverage containers such as aluminum cans, and glass and plastic bottles are also easy to recycle, as they are widely accepted in curbside bin recycling programs. Some states even offer payment for cans and bottles after a deposit has been made to the retailer at the time of purchase.
If you're looking specifically to recycle for profit, some organizations pay cash for used cell phones. Visit www.cashmyphone.com or http://www.cellforcash.com/ for information about how to turn your used mobile phone into profit.
You may also receive payment for your gently worn clothing by selling it to consignment shops or used clothing chains. Stores such as the Arizona Trading Company and the Buffalo Exchange accept apparel year-round.
In addition, aside from donating your old books and magazines to local libraries and schools, many used bookstores will buy your inventory for a small profit.
The possibilities are plenty,CDs, vinyl records, cassette tapes, DVDS and VHS videos all have re-sale value.
And remember, every time you donate items to a thrift store you are saving landfills from receiving unnecessary trash. As an added bonus, most contributions are tax-deductible.
