The most profitable materials to recycle are scrap metal, aluminum, copper, and cardboard.
Why Recycle?
Scrap Metal and Aluminum
- Scrap metal can be found almost everywhere, even on the side of the road.
- Aluminum cans are 100% recyclable and use 95% less energy to produce than manufacturing new cans.
Copper and Cardboard
- Copper yields between $1 and $3 per pound.
- Cardboard is recyclable and profitable if kept clean and dry.
Additional Profitable Items
Other profitable recyclables include:
- Car batteries
- Catalytic converters
- Unused medications
- Pallets
- Construction materials
- Rare earth metals from electronics
- Printer ink cartridges
- Plastic bottles or containers
The recycling industry continues to grow as environmental awareness increases. With some time and effort, many household items can be turned into cash instead of trash.