(Newswire.net — July 20, 2021) —
The number of Americans who recycle small and large appliances increased dramatically between 1960 and 2018. That is the year the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) conducted research on the topic. However, population growth and the increasing number of appliances produced each year means that the country is in about the same position it was 60 years ago with landfill waste.
The EPA Study
The amount of appliance trash generated by American consumers and businesses has increased every decade since the EPA first began measuring statistics. In 1960, Americans generated 9,920 pounds of trash from major appliances, and all but 350 pounds of it went to landfills. In 2018, Americans generated 57,100 pounds of old and broken major appliance trash, with 37,410 pounds of it ending up in landfills.
The EPA did not start measuring statistics on small appliance disposal until 1990. Americans generated 460 pounds of small appliance trash 31 years ago, and 360 pounds of it went to landfills. By 2018, Americans were generating 2,160 pounds of trash from small appliances every year, with 1,640 pounds of it going into landfills. To make true progress, the United States must recycle appliances at a faster rate than it produces them.
Other Surprising Statistics About Large and Small Appliance Waste
Approximately 70 percent of the toxic waste Americans produce is electronic waste, such as computers, smartphones, and appliances. Most of this electronic waste sits in landfills for decades because the recycling rate is so low. Here are some additional facts about electronic waste to ponder:
- Workers at scrap yards typically burn, bury, or dissolve scrapped appliances in acid. None of these solutions are good for the environment or human health.
- Lead contained in electronic waste can damage the central nervous system and kidneys. It also has a negative impact on the intellectual development of children.
- Approximately 50 percent of all electronic waste in landfills are appliances, with 20 percent of that total comprising of old refrigerators.
- Most people do not realize that battery parts, metals, and plastics found in many appliances are recyclable.
What Can Americans Do to Turn the Tide?
The simplest thing home and business owners can do is attempt to repair an appliance before replacing it. Many how-to videos are available online for those willing to put in the work. Another possibility is to sell or donate the item to someone else who can use it. Secondhand stores and websites such as FreeStyle are examples of where to donate unwanted appliances.
Recycling Unwanted Appliances
When purchasing a new appliance, consumers should inquire whether the store will pick up the old appliance. Many stores offer this service for a small fee. For people who are getting rid of a broken or inefficient appliance without replacing it, bringing the unwanted unit to a recycling center is a better option.
Some people wonder what happens to their old appliances when recycled or picked up by a junk hauler. All companies try to ensure the appliances goes through the recycling process and will bring it to a recycling center that offers the service whenever possible. As long as people attempt to recycle their appliances, replacing them with new ones is good for the environment since newer models contain fewer carbon emissions. They also help save money on energy costs.