Recycling — the third R of the three R’s

From pop cans to giant cranes, gone are the days when scrap metal was dumped and left to weather until someone got around to finding a use for it, says Kevin Simanski, general manager of AMG Alliance Scrap Metal Recyclers in Red Wing.

“Prices are real strong. People are digging scrap out of everywhere they can,” he said.

People are also realizing that recycling is a big word and comes in many varieties.

Curbside recycling now services half of the U.S. population providing the most convenient means for households to recycle a variety of materials. While all curbside programs differ, the most commonly included materials are the big five: aluminum, cans, glass bottles, paper, plastic and steel/tin cans.

Technology has revolutionized our lifestyle through telephones, radios, computers and cell phones. However, the brisk pace of technology means these devices become obsolete quickly. Because they often contain dangerous elements such as lead and mercury, old electronics should be disposed of properly to eliminate possible contamination of our soil and water supply.

At AMG Alliance, “Everything is done by the book” said Heather Huron, office manager, when referring to the proper handling and safe disposal of such hazardous materials.

With warmer weather upon us, many people are beginning their “spring cleaning” projects and some of those are beginning with garage garbage. Did you know that used motor oil can be recycled? How about paint?

It turns out that many of the items in your garage are recyclable. Claim your garage back and get rid of all of the unwanted waste, properly.

Simanski and Huron have cleaned up the yard at 1220 Brick Ave., next to the Humane Society. They are also preparing for the future. That includes integrating the business into the community and working closely with the City of Red Wing and Goodhue County, Simanski said.

While scrap metal and the proper disposal of electronics and hazardous materials are designed for the professionals to handle, you can recycle many things yourself by composting.

Managing organic material at your home can not only decrease the amount of material you send to the landfill; it can also help turn your organic waste into a landscape asset.

Composting will reduce the amount of food waste in your garbage can, while creating nutrient rich fertilizer for your garden.

Make the three R’s part of your daily routine — Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

Tags: liffestyle, amg, recycling