Putting the words “sustainable” and “junk” in the same sentence might sound like a mistake, but it’s actually one of the most important characteristics of the clearing out process. Many people are surprised to learn that when you hire a reputable junk removal company, you’re not just sending all of your stuff straight to the landfill.
Instead, you’re putting it in the hands of professionals who have the knowledge to appropriately sort and dispose of items to minimize any potential negative environmental impacts.
3 Ways Junk Removal Companies Avoid the Landfill
Sustainable junk removal is not just an option; it should be the goal. The most reputable companies have standing practices in place to help divert as much trash from the landfill as possible, including protocols for recycling, donation, and hazardous waste disposal.
Recycling Unwanted Items
Junk removal teams are well versed in sorting through junk to determine what items can be recycled. From simple paper or cardboard to metals like steel or aluminum or even old mattresses, junk removal experts can categorize the items and ensure they end up in the right place to be repurposed into something new.
Not to mention having a team to transport all the recyclable junk for you, saving you time and some tough labor!
Donating Unwanted Items
As the saying goes, “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” Junk removal professionals are trained to have a keen eye for determining what items still have life left in them and can pull them aside for donation. It’s also common to work with local charities and nonprofits for useful distribution.
For example, big ticket items like beds, cribs, couches, tables, or chairs can be donated to stores like Habitat for Humanity, or even to local shelters that have need.
Smaller items like any clothing, toys, kitchen tools, and beyond can also be sorted and delivered to an appropriate donation location, saving them from the landfill while giving them a second chance with someone who needs them.
Disposing of Hazardous Waste & Electronics
Most junk removal companies do not take hazardous waste; however they will be able to assist you by answering questions and guiding you towards who can help you in the city you live in.
Although Mitten Junk Removal in Howell would like to accept everything,there are a few things we cannot. This includes paints, chemicals, solvents, oils, and asbestos.
Electronics and TVs are other tricky belongings that may have very specific disposal requirements. As mentioned above, some may be able to be donated if they’re in good working condition. In other instances, the appliance might be stripped of working parts that can then be used to refurbish other items. For any electronic or appliance that is completely unsavable, the junk removal team will know what to do and where to take it.
Why the Landfill is a Last Resort
The sad reality of junk that ends up in the landfill is that it stays there for decades, if not much, much longer. These items become buried beneath the dirt and as they degrade, harmful substances like lead or microplastics can escape into any underground water, causing irreparable damage to the plants and animals in the area. Not to mention these can sneak into the local water supply, causing potential health hazards for everyone who lives in the area.
Additionally, landfills are responsible for producing large amounts of greenhouse gasses, which are known to be bad for the environment and air quality around the landfill. As you can see, landfills are responsible for a lot of pollution, so their use should always be a last resort.
Protecting our planet is everyone’s responsibility. That’s why it’s key to select a junk removal company that understands the importance of salvaging as much as possible, whether it be for recycling, donation, or safe disposal.
Responsible Junk Removal in Howell, MI
Mitten Junk Removal helps homeowners and businesses in Howell and throughout the surrounding areas in Southeast Michigan clear away clutter while prioritizing donation, recycling, and proper disposal whenever possible. We handle residential and commercial junk removal, garage and basement cleanouts, estate and house cleanouts, appliance and furniture removal, construction debris, hot tub removal, light demolition, and more.
Save yourself the sorting, lifting, and hauling of unwanted items, large or small. Call Mitten Junk Removal today for a free estimate!