Reports show that approximately $11.4 billion worth of recyclables enter U.S. landfills every year.
\r\n\r\nWhile there are no national mandates requiring individuals to recycle, the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) announced in November 2020 its ambitious plan to increase American recycling efforts to 50% by 2030.
\r\n\r\nThe news release quotes EPA Office of Land and Emergency Management assistant administrator Peter Wright as saying, \"Without national leadership on this issue, recycling has lingered in the low 30% range for the last twenty years. The economic and environmental benefits from recycling are clear, and we’ve made a lot of progress, but much more needs to be done to obtain the benefits of increasing the national recycling rate to 50 percent by 2030.\"
\r\n\r\nWith countries like Germany, South Korea, Sweden, Austria, and Switzerland recycling municipal waste above the 50% mark, it's natural to wonder how places like the United States and Canada have failed to keep up.
\r\n\r\n![\"Recyclable](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/recyclable-materials-info.jpg\")
\r\nAll of the high-volume recycling countries have something in common that is driving these positive numbers: legislation.
\r\n\r\nThe success of recycling efforts in other countries can be credited to government policies that encourage it.
\r\n\r\nAs the numbers have shown, good funding and financial incentives encourage local and municipal authorities to find solutions to achieve their recycling performance targets. In 2018 alone, an estimated 139 million TONS of recyclable material was sent to U.S. landfills.
\r\n\r\nOnly one type of recyclable material is recycled in America more than it is thrown out, and that's paper and paperboard. Even then, there are still millions of tons of paper entering our landfill system.
\r\n\r\nAmericans do the worst job at recycling plastic, which is arguably the most important material to recycle. Almost every type of plastic is made from planet-warming fuels like gas, oil, and even sometimes coal. Breaking down plastic can take hundreds, even thousands, of years, which is why recycling is so important.
\r\n\r\nTo top it off, plastic doesn't just affect the environment, it seeps its way into every aspect of the food chain, from tiny plankton to the fish we eat, causing exposure to toxins for plants, animals, and humans.
\r\n\r\nIf the health aspect isn't reason enough to consider changing your waste disposal methods, let's take a look at the financial benefits.
\r\n\r\nAn article published in the L.A. Times takes a look at the problem from an energy standpoint. It states the U.S. could save about $12 billion per year in energy costs by increasing the national recycling rate.
\r\n\r\nThis is due to the fact that it requires less energy to recycle materials into new products than it does to make new products from virgin materials.
\r\n\r\nWith all of this information at our fingertips, it's hard to understand why efforts to increase our national recycling hasn't been more successful.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAn estimated 74% of Americans have access to curbside recycling, with more rural areas having less access.
\r\n
More and more large companies have made the switch to recycled packaging to help curb their carbon footprint. While positive change can take time, the world doesn't have time to wait.
\r\n\r\nSome of these statistics are alarming, but it’s important to point out what’s being done at municipal landfills across the country to alleviate part of the problem. Modern landfills utilize new technology to sort and remove recyclables from the municipal waste stream.
\r\n\r\nAdditionally, the EPA states there are a total of 86 landfills in the U.S. utilizing waste-to-energy technology to turn trash into energy by burning waste.
\r\n\r\nThe resulting smoke is filtered to ensure it doesn’t harm the environment, and the resulting ash is hauled off to the landfill.
\r\n\r\nThe trash incineration process not only produces 2,720 megawatts of power nationwide each year, but it significantly reduces the amount of waste entering landfills.
\r\n\r\nThat said, recycling efforts in the U.S. can certainly be improved. This is not an issue that the government or big business is solely responsible for; it starts with individuals.
\r\n\r\nThe average American produces more than 4.5 lbs of trash per day, 80% of which is recyclable.
\r\n\r\nAs individuals, we can help improve the state of recycling in the U.S. one empty can at a time.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\n![\"person](\"/sites/default/files/migrate_images/plastic-bottle.jpg\")
\r\nAs individuals, there are plenty of ways to help your community's recycling efforts.
\r\n\r\nSeparating your trash is the most common and easiest way to minimize your carbon footprint.
\r\n\r\nIf you're lucky enough to live in an area that offers curbside recycling, the process is similar to taking out your trash.
\r\n\r\nYour recyclable trash, separate and free from all food waste, can be gathered in your recycling bin and taken out to the curb on your area's scheduled collection days.
\r\n\r\nSome states, like Michigan, Hawaii, Iowa, and California, have programs in place where consumers are charged a small deposit fee per plastic bottle or aluminum can purchased, and they'll get that deposit fee back only if they return these cans and bottles for recycling.
\r\n\r\nIf you live in an area that doesn't offer curbside recycling or a soda can/bottle buy back program, your recycling efforts might be more involved but certainly not impossible.
\r\n\r\nYou can search online for recycling centers that accept outside recyclables. Earth 9-1-1 is a website that makes finding recycling resources in your area just a click away.
\r\n\r\nAdditionally, composting your food and yard waste is a great way to minimize your impact on the environment.
\r\n\r\nOrganic waste is biodegradable and comes from either a plant or animal. Any food or yard waste falls into this category and will decompose naturally in oxygen-rich conditions.
\r\n\r\nThis process is called composting and the result of composting produces humus which is full of nutrients that can then be used to fertilize other growing plants.
\r\n\r\nComposting not only minimizes one's environmental impact but is a great way to maintain your small (or large!) home garden.
\r\n\r\n![\"junk](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/recyc-junk_2.jpg\")
\r\nWith more and more junk removal companies making a commitment to recycle as much waste as possible, it's never been easier to find an earth-friendly junk removal company.
\r\n\r\nMany junk removal service providers commit to recycling 60-70% of all waste they remove on their customers' behalf.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to find service providers in your area that will be able to explain their disposal process in detail at your request.
\r\n\r\nSome junk removal companies will even provide you with a receipt for your items that they donate which allows you write off the amount donated on your taxes.
\r\n\r\nFor people who go the DIY route and rent a dumpster to throw out their junk on their own, clean loading a dumpster is also a great way to make recycling easier.
\r\n\r\nClean loading a dumpster simply means that you load a dumpster with the same type of recyclable material.
\r\n\r\nFor demolition or home improvement projects, you might be able to clean load your dumpster with only asphalt or only wood. This allows for an easy dump at a recycling center rather than mixing in other waste, like food or textiles, in with your clean loaded dumpster.
\r\n\r\nRecycling in today's world is much easier than it was in the past and with experienced disposal services available to guide you with local resources, there's no reason to be intimidated at the process.
\r\n\r\nQuickly find licensed, insured, and locally-owned junk removal and dumpster rental companies in your area by searching your zip code on Hometown.
\r\n\r\nWith our single quote request form, you'll be able to request free quotes from multiple providers with ease, all in a matter of minutes.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nWhile there are no national mandates requiring individuals to recycle, the EPA announced in November 2020 its ambitious plan to increase American recycling efforts to 50% by 2030.
\r\n","changed":"2024-01-09T17:47:41+00:00"},{"id":"ccb2b7ce-c243-593a-878a-594dee66605d","title":"How Long Can You Have a Dumpster in Your Driveway?","url":"/blog/how-long-can-you-have-a-dumpster-in-your-driveway","image":{"path":"/static/28cfc1cff1b6f570fffa9231963eec14/dumpster-driveway.png","alt":"dumpster being dropped off in driveway"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"One of the most common questions when renting a residential dumpster is regarding the rental duration.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nA standard dumpster rental period is seven days, although some dumpster companies offer shorter or longer rental periods. Most rental providers are willing to accommodate your schedule as best they can whether it’s short term or long term.
\r\n
Dumpster rental period is an important topic to address, and in this guide, we'll also discuss other key aspects of dumpster placement worth considering.
\r\n\r\n![\"Circling](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/dumpster-schedule.jpg\")
\r\nA seven-day rental period is far and away the most common rental duration.
\r\n\r\nSome rental providers specialize in short-term rentals of one to three days, while others offer rentals as long as 30 days or even longer.
\r\n\r\nA good dumpster rental company will work within the timeline of your project to accommodate the needs of the cleanup.
\r\n\r\nFor quick cleanups, such as a shed cleanout, this may be a one-day rental.
\r\n\r\nOther jobs, such as a disposing of interior renovation debris, may require that the dumpster remain onsite for a week or longer.
\r\n\r\nThere is no reason to have the dumpster remain in the driveway for longer than it needs to be, which is why it’s important to be accurate in describing your project with the rental provider to ensure the optimal rental period is determined before the container is dropped off.
\r\n\r\nWe suggest getting several quotes before booking the dumpster. Don’t base your decision on price alone, as the reputation of a company and how accommodating they can be to your project are key factors in finding the right company.
\r\n![\"HOA](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/hoa-document.jpg\")
\r\nSome customers may be subject to local rules or regulations when it comes to how long a dumpster is allowed to remain on their property. (These rules are separate from a dumpster rental company's terms and services policy.)
\r\n\r\nA common example of this would be a Homeowner’s Association (HOA) rule stating that roll-off dumpsters are only allowed on a property for more than a certain number of days, must remain out of public view, or other rules.
\r\n\r\nIf you are part of an HOA, check the rules regarding dumpster rental placement and duration prior to renting one.
\r\n\r\nIt’s also advisable to check with the public works department (or equivalent department) of your city to make sure all dumpster rental regulations are followed. Your dumpster rental company is a great source of information in this regard.
\r\n\r\nWhen placing a dumpster in your driveway, it’s not required to get a dumpster permit.
\r\n\r\nA dumpster permit is required when the container is placed in the public right of way, such as the side of a city street or across a sidewalk.
\r\n\r\nIn this case, the dumpster rental period will be dictated by the permit, so be sure to coordinate drop-off and pick-up of the container with your dumpster rental company to avoid any fees or penalties from the city.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: The Process of Obtaining a Dumpster Rental Permit
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"Boards](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/boards-under-dumpster_0.jpg\")
\r\nWhile uncommon, a roll-off container can damage a driveway if proper care is ignored.
\r\n\r\nThe first form of prevention is driveway protection, which is usually accomplished by placing boards under the feet of the dumpster, providing softer contact with the concrete or asphalt driveway.
\r\n\r\nThe second form of prevention is minimizing the amount of time a dumpster sits on a driveway when temperatures are extreme.
\r\n\r\nFor example, in extreme heat, the weight of a dumpster can cause indentations on a driveway, especially if it is placed there for an extended period of time.
\r\n\r\nAsphalt can soften in extreme heat, and heavy items, such as a loaded roll-off dumpster, can leave impressions or even cracks by the time it’s picked up.
\r\n\r\nConsider placing your dumpster in the yard or other area and keep the rental period as short as possible if you have an asphalt driveway.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"Blue](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/blue-dumpster-pickup.jpg\")
\r\nSometimes you can rent a dumpster for a shorter duration and save on costs.
\r\n\r\nSince dumpster rental companies make money by moving dumpsters from customer to customer, it can be advantageous to them to keep the rental duration short.
\r\n\r\nDuring the busy dumpster rental months (Spring to Fall), rental companies can experience a shortage of containers. Keeping dumpster rental periods short helps to control this issue.
\r\n\r\nOf course, if you need a dumpster for a longer duration, a reputable dumpster provider will accommodate your request.
\r\n\r\nConsider requesting a shorter term dumpster rental from your dumpster rental provider to see if that scores you a slight discount on the rental rate.
\r\n\r\nFor example, a 10 yard dumpster may cost $350 for a seven-day rental; ask the rental company if you could shorten the rental duration to three days.
\r\n\r\nAgain, if it’s during the busy dumpster season and the rental company is short on containers, they may offer a slight discount for the shorter rental period. The other benefit is that the dumpster is in your driveway for a shorter period of time.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to find local dumpster rental companies.
\r\n
\r\nBrowse dumpster rental companies by zip code, read customer reviews for each company, and request quotes from multiple dumpster rental providers to ensure you pay a fair price for great services.
Find out more:
\r\n\r\nThe most common dumpster rental period is seven days, but this can vary by dumpster rental company. This is not the only consideration when placing a dumpster on a driveway. Read on to get the details.
\r\n","changed":"2022-07-01T03:23:25+00:00"},{"id":"ac61c6a4-d092-58e6-bd1e-562b6c0bc11d","title":"5 Things to Know About Winter Dumpster Rental","url":"/blog/5-things-to-know-about-winter-dumpster-rental","image":{"path":"/static/b125747dd95df3b1815549629c7cfd22/dumpster-in-snow.png","alt":"dumpster in snow"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"Renting a dumpster during the winter can be a great way to tackle home cleanouts, renovations, or post-holiday junk removal. However, the colder months come with their own unique challenges and considerations.
\r\n\r\nIf you're planning a winter cleanup, here are our five biggest tips to make renting a dumpster in the winter a breeze...
\r\n\r\nWinter weather can make placement a little tricky. Snow and ice can cover driveways and other areas where the dumpster might go. Before your dumpster is delivered, clear a flat, stable area for it. Your driveway is often the best spot because it’s easy to access, but no matter where you're placing your dumpster, make sure the area is cleared of snow and de-iced to prevent any slips or accidents when loading the dumpster.
\r\n\r\nWinter storms can impact your cleanup plans and the timing of your dumpster delivery or pickup. If heavy snow or icy conditions are expected, communicate with your rental company to coordinate the best schedule. Planning around the weather ensures a smoother process and avoids delays caused by hazardous conditions.
\r\n\r\nIn winter, items like cardboard, wood, or fabrics can get wet, making them heavier and at greater risk of freezing to the dumpster. To avoid this, try to keep the items dry before and after tossing them into your dumpster. Keep your dumpster covered with a tarp when it’s not in use, especially if snow or freezing rain is in the forecast. This small step can prevent your dumpster from exceeding the included weight limit, saving you money in the long run.
\r\n\r\nWinter cleanups often involve getting rid of bulky items like old furniture, holiday decorations, or leftover debris from remodels or other projects. Think carefully about the dumpster size you’ll need and confirm with the companies you speak to that you are renting the best dumpster size for your specific needs. It’s better to rent one that’s slightly larger than to risk running out of space in the middle of your project. The rental company can help you decide which size is best based on your cleanup goals.
\r\n\r\nEveryone knows that winter brings its own hazards and safety challenges, and winter dumpster rental is no different. Wear proper footwear to avoid slipping on ice, shovel snow away from the area where you’ll be walking or carrying items, and use gloves to protect your hands while loading. In addition, be sure to move slowly and watch where you're walking. Taking these precautions will help you complete your project safely, even in slippery conditions.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: Dumpster Rental Safety: Protecting Yourself and Others During Cleanup
\r\n\r\nRenting a dumpster during the winter is similar to any other time of year. Here’s a quick breakdown:
\r\n\r\nContact a Dumpster Rental Company: Let them know what type of cleanup you’re doing, so they can recommend the right size.
\r\n\tSchedule Delivery: Choose a day and time for the dumpster to be dropped off at your location.
\r\n\tLoad It Up: Fill the dumpster with your junk or debris, keeping an eye on the weather and safety tips.
\r\n\tPickup: Once your project is done, the rental company will haul the dumpster away and handle disposal for you.
\r\n\tRenting a dumpster in winter is an effective way to handle cleanouts or renovations while avoiding the busier spring season. By planning ahead and keeping these winter-specific tips in mind, you can make the process hassle-free. If you’re ready to tackle a winter project, reach out to local dumpster rental providers to get started!
\r\n","teaser":"If you're planning a winter cleanup, don't miss our five biggest tips to make renting a dumpster in the winter a breeze.
\r\n","changed":"2024-12-12T19:49:44+00:00"}],"populars":[{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Allentown, PA","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Pennsylvania/dumpsters-allentown.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Philadelphia, PA","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"pennsylvania/commercial-waste-management-philadelphia-pa","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Pittsburgh, PA","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"pennsylvania/commercial-waste-management-pittsburgh-pa","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Allentown, PA","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"Pennsylvania/junk-removal/allentown-pa.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Pittsburgh, PA","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"Pennsylvania/junk-removal/pittsburgh-pa.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Allentown, PA","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"pennsylvania/commercial-waste-management-allentown-pa","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"}],"tips":[{"name":"Roll Off Containers","body":"Roll-off rentals typically come with a standard 7-day rental period and include all of the fees upfront (e.g., “base rate” described below). The “other fees” section below describes fees that may or may not apply in your situation.
\r\n\r\nBase Rate (based on national averages):
\r\n\r\nOther fees:
\r\n\r\nLearn more: Lower Your Cost to Rent a Dumpster
\r\n\r\nThey’re a versatile disposal solution that can be used for a variety of cleanups.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Here are several examples:
\r\n\r\nWastes that usually cannot by disposed of in dumpsters include household hazardous wastes (HHWs), appliances containing Freon, scrap tires, and electronics (e-wastes).
\r\n","place":null,"code":"roll-off-dumpsters"}],"related":[{"title":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"pennsylvania/commercial-waste-management-huntington-mills-pa"},{"title":"Junk - Clean-up or Removal","url":"pennsylvania/junk-removal-huntington-mills-pa"}],"modal_project_types":[{"name":"Cleanout an Interior Space","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":542,"label":"Cleanout - Basement","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":543,"label":"Cleanout - Commercial","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":544,"label":"Cleanout - Estate","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":545,"label":"Cleanout - Garage","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":546,"label":"Cleanout - Hoarding","service":"junk-removal"}]},{"name":"Cleanup an Exterior Area","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":547,"label":"Cleanup - Storm Recovery","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":557,"label":"Trash Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":558,"label":"Yard Waste Removal","service":"junk-removal"}]},{"name":"Construction & Demolition","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":548,"label":"Construction Debris Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":552,"label":"Light Demolition","service":"junk-removal"}]},{"name":"Large Item Removal","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":540,"label":"Appliance Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":541,"label":"Carpet Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":550,"label":"Furniture Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":553,"label":"Mattress Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":554,"label":"Refrigerator Removal","service":"junk-removal"}]}],"codes":[{"name":"10 Yard Dumpster","code":"10-yard-dumpster","paths":{"name":"10_Yard_Dumpster","code":"10-yard-dumpster"}},{"name":"20 Yard Dumpster","code":"20-yard-dumpster","paths":{"name":"20_Yard_Dumpster","code":"20-yard-dumpster"}},{"name":"Construction Dumpster","code":"construction-dumpster","paths":{"name":"Construction_Dumpster","code":"construction-dumpster"}},{"name":"Roll Off - Dumpsters for Rent","code":"roll-off-dumpsters","paths":{"name":"Roll_Off_Dumpsters_for_Rent","code":"roll-off-dumpsters"}}],"seo_desc":[{"name":"Roll Off Dumpsters","code":"roll-off-dumpsters","kg_homepage_seo_desc":null,"kg_kpp_seo_desc":null,"kg_seo_label":null,"kg_state_seo_desc":null,"kg_panel_page_seo_desc":"Rent a roll-off dumpster in PLACE_NAME. Compare local roll-off container companies and get the lowest price on a temporary rental."}],"pros":"32182, 31826, 17734, 37748, 37612, 37581, 37578, 32414, 20777","profiles":[[{"id":"32182"},{"id":"31826"},{"id":"17734"},{"id":"37748"},{"id":"37612"},{"id":"37581"},{"id":"37578"},{"id":"32414"},{"id":"20777"}]],"code":"roll-off-dumpsters","env":{"domain":"https://www.hometowndumpsterrental.com","site":"dumpster","service":"https://api.bookable.com","build":"ppprolloff"},"cards":{"17734":"\n\t\t\t\t\tFoughts Disposal has been offering quality services to the greater Bloomsburg, PA area for over 40 years. Our roll-off dumpster rental and junk removal services are...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tCCI Waste Recycling Services, Inc offers full-service waste hauling services. We have a large stock of dumpsters available for residential, commercial or industrial projects. We’...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tJC Garbage Removal empowers its customers by providing them with professional junk removal and hauling services in Barre, PA. We have a long history of...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tCostantino Dumpers & Junkers is proud to provide reliable dumpster rental and junk removal services to Wilkes-Barre and nearby areas. Our experienced team is courteous and...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tAt Wildcat Dumpsters, we are a locally owned and operated team that is deep-rooted in West Hazleton, proudly serving the entire Luzerne County area. We...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tAt Eco 1st Logistics, we are your dedicated partner for sustainable waste management services across Columbia and lower Luzerne counties, including Bloomsburg, Berwick, and Hazleton....\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tEMPM Dumpsters is a trusted dumpster rental company serving Northeastern Pennsylvania and beyond since 2004, known for reliable, fast, and friendly service. We offer competitive pricing,...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tHarth Industries LLC Dumpster Rental is a woman-owned, family-operated, and faith-based company offering dumpster rental services throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. Our goal is to exceed customer...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tKnorr Hauling Inc provides dependable dumpster rental services throughout Berwick and surrounding counties. We deliver roll-off dumpsters ideal for construction debris, home renovations, and business...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t