The Classic City Rotary of Athens Eco Passport is a year-long initiative to encourage members to engage in eco-friendly activities and promote environmental awareness. Members earn points by completing various sustainable actions, such as recycling, composting, attending environmental talks, and participating in service projects. ECORotary@sosuin.org
Eco Passport Item # 23 – “Choose aluminum cans over plastic bottles, and recycle when done”
By Salome Alvarez, Southern Sustainability Institute, Athens, GA
Email: Blog@sosuin.org
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to grab a drink on the go without considering the environmental impact of our choices. However, small changes in our daily habits can lead to significant positive effects on the planet. One such change is opting for aluminum cans instead of plastic bottles for your beverages. Not only is this choice better for the environment, but it also supports a more sustainable future. Here’s why choosing aluminum cans and recycling them when you’re done is crucial.
A Brief History of Aluminum and Recycling
The use of aluminum in packaging began in the early 20th century, with the first aluminum beverage cans appearing in the 1950s. The lightweight and durable nature of aluminum made it an attractive option for packaging drinks. As concerns about plastic waste grew in the late 20th century, the benefits of aluminum became more pronounced. Unlike plastic, aluminum is infinitely recyclable without losing quality, making it a superior choice for sustainable packaging. Today, the recycling of aluminum cans has become a critical component of the global effort to reduce waste and promote a circular economy.
The Importance of Choosing Aluminum Cans
Here are several compelling reasons to prefer aluminum cans over plastic bottles:
- Environmental Impact: The environmental consequences of plastic waste are staggering. According to the World Economic Forum, by 2025, there could be more plastic than fish in the oceans. Plastic bottles contribute significantly to this problem, often ending up in landfills or waterways, where they can take hundreds of years to decompose. In contrast, aluminum cans are 100% recyclable and can be back on the shelf in as little as 60 days after being recycled, drastically reducing waste.
- Energy Efficiency: Recycling aluminum saves a remarkable amount of energy compared to producing new aluminum from raw materials. In fact, recycling aluminum uses about 95% less energy than creating new aluminum from bauxite ore. This energy savings translates into fewer greenhouse gas emissions, making aluminum recycling an environmentally friendly choice.
- Economic Benefits: The aluminum industry supports millions of jobs worldwide and contributes to local economies. By choosing aluminum cans, you’re supporting an industry that prioritizes sustainability and economic growth. Additionally, recycling aluminum creates jobs in the recycling and manufacturing sectors.
- Health and Safety: Aluminum cans are generally considered safer than plastic bottles for certain beverages. Some studies suggest that chemicals from plastic, such as BPA (bisphenol A), can leach into drinks over time, particularly when exposed to heat or sunlight. Aluminum cans, on the other hand, are lined with a protective coating that helps prevent this leaching, making them a safer option for storing beverages.
- Convenience and Portability: Aluminum cans are lightweight and easy to carry, making them a convenient choice for on-the-go hydration. They’re also easily stackable and chill quickly, perfect for outdoor events, picnics, or any occasion where cold drinks are desired.
The Importance of Recycling
Once you’ve enjoyed your drink from an aluminum can, it’s crucial to recycle it properly. Here’s why recycling matters:
- Reducing Waste: Recycling aluminum cans helps divert waste from landfills, where they would otherwise take up space for decades. By recycling, you contribute to a more sustainable waste management system.
- Conserving Resources: When you recycle aluminum, you’re conserving natural resources. Recycling helps reduce the need for new raw materials, which can lead to habitat destruction and other environmental impacts associated with mining and extraction.
- Creating a Circular Economy: Recycling supports a circular economy, where materials are continuously reused rather than discarded. This approach minimizes waste and maximizes resource efficiency, leading to a more sustainable future.
Tips for Recycling Aluminum Cans
To make the most of your recycling efforts, consider these tips:
- Rinse Before Recycling: Give your aluminum cans a quick rinse to remove any residual liquid or food. This helps keep the recycling stream clean and ensures the cans are processed efficiently.
- Flatten Cans: If possible, flatten your cans before placing them in the recycling bin. This saves space and makes it easier for recycling facilities to process them.
- Check Local Recycling Guidelines: Recycling rules can vary by location, so be sure to check your local guidelines to ensure you’re recycling correctly.
- Support Local Recycling Programs: Participate in community recycling initiatives and advocate for improved recycling facilities in your area. The more people engage in recycling, the greater the positive impact on the environment.
- Educate Others: Share information about the benefits of choosing aluminum cans and recycling with friends and family. The more people understand the importance of their choices, the more likely they are to make sustainable decisions.
Resources for More Information
- Aluminum Association: A resource for information on aluminum’s benefits, sustainability, and recycling.
- Earth911: A guide to recycling and sustainable living, including tools for finding local recycling options.
- Recycling Partnership: An organization dedicated to improving recycling rates and educating communities about recycling best practices.
Choosing aluminum cans over plastic bottles and recycling them when you’re done is a simple yet impactful way to contribute to a more sustainable future. By making this small change in your beverage choices, you’re not only reducing waste but also supporting local economies and promoting a cleaner environment. Together, we can work towards a healthier planet, one can at a time!
Resources:
https://nationaltoday.com/national-crush-a-can-day/
https://www.aluminum.org
https://earth911.com
https://recyclingpartnership.org