How to Recycle Auto Glass

When you decide that your old vehicle is no longer safe to drive on the roads, you could take the entire thing to a landfill. A more environmentally friendly option, however, may be to recycle the various parts of your vehicle separately. For example, auto glass can be recycled. This includes the windshield and side windows, as well as the glass for your sunroof. There aren't many recyclers who have the ability to recycle auto glass, so you may have to do some research.

Instructions

    • 1

      Contact your local landfill. Some landfills take apart junked cars and recycle the various materials, including the auto glass.

    • 2

      Find local recycling centers and make a short list of those nearest you. You can find recyclers by utilizing online resources such as the Recycling Center locator which can be accessed through this article's resources section.

    • 3

      Call each recycler to ask whether they accept auto glass. Be sure to mention the windshield separately if you have one. This is because windshields contain two layers of glass, one of which is polyvinyl butyrate, a material that can be more challenging to recycle.

    • 4

      Try local auto repair shops and auto supply stores if you have no luck with recycling centers. These types of establishments sometimes have recycling programs in place that accept auto glass and may even pay you a small amount.

    • 5

      Transport your auto glass carefully. Broken auto glass may not be accepted. Also, make sure the glass is clean and dry before taking it to the landfill or recycler.

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