Recycling: The Smart Way to Save Money

Emmet County Recycling (ECR) offers a cost effective solution to the increased pricing of waste disposal in our area. By diverting waste from landfill and recycling instead, residents can reduce the financial burden associated with managing household waste.

Household Savings Through Recycling

Emmet County operates a "pay-as-you-throw" program, where residents are charged based on the amount of waste they produce. If a household generates less garbage, they save money, but if they generate more garbage, they pay proportionately more.

ECR provides curbside and drop site recycling pick up, which bears no direct cost to residents. Acceptable items include paper products, boxes and bags (both paper and plastic). Did you know you can also recycle the bulk film wrap from your toilet paper, paper towel and bulk beverage containers in the same cart as your paper? All film plastic is then sold to Trex decking, who makes composite lumber out of the material.

Food and beverage containers are accepted with the mixed containers – just give them a rinse! Pickle jars, ice cream cartons, milk jugs, soup cans, yogurt tubs, water bottles and more.

The Pleasantview Drop Off Center (DOC) takes an additional 30 materials for recycling for free or half the price of disposal. For example, mattresses can be recycled for $20-26 per piece where disposal would set you back $30-40 per item. Small metal appliances, batteries, food scraps, lightbulbs and scrap metal are all items accepted for free at the DOC.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

Recycling is not only a cost-saving measure but also a crucial environmental practice. It reduces the need for raw material extraction, decreases greenhouse gas emissions, and conserves energy. For instance, recycling aluminum saves 95% of the energy required to produce new aluminum from raw materials. Your pop can could be back on the shelf for purchase in as little as 60 days!

Call to Action

As costs associated with waste disposal increase, it is more important than ever for everyone to embrace recycling. By making a conscious effort to recycle, we can all contribute to a healthier planet and enjoy the financial benefits that come with it.

For more information on how recycling can save you money and help the environment, visit emmetrecycling.org or contact the ECR administrative offices at 231-348-0640.

About Emmet County Recycling Emmet County’s mission is to provide opportunities and education for employees, residents, businesses, and neighboring communities to reduce waste, reuse, recycle and properly dispose of materials in order to preserve the natural beauty of our northern Michigan community.