How to Recycle Aluminum Can Pull Tabs

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, recycled aluminum tabs can be used to manufacture new cans and reduce the amount of energy used to produce aluminum from bauxite ore, the main ingredient. Tabs are lightweight, easily stored, and worth money when recycled. The Recycle in Me website predicts that the price paid for aluminum, which is used for many products, will continue to rise. As of 2009, only 3.2 percent of cans were recycled.

Things You'll Need

• Storage container

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Instructions

• 1

  Remove tabs from aluminum cans. Pulling them forward and back again will loosen them from the can and cause the tab to pop off. Tabs can be collected from any aluminum can, even those that are not labeled for recycling. A variety of containers can be used to store collected tabs, including coffee cans, jars and boxes.

• 2

  Locate a local aluminum recycling center. Earth 911 has a search function on its website that will help you find a center near you.

• 3

  Return tabs to the aluminum recycling center for payment. Your tabs will be poured out of their container and weighed on the center's scale. Prices are generally posted at the center. You can also ask the rate per pound.