Video: Can I Recycle That? Metal Containers

 

Are metal containers recyclable? Short answer: yes. Learn how to recycle metal containers in this short video.

 

Can I Recycle That? How To Recycle Metal Containers

 

It’s easy to recycle empty metal food containers, such as steel or tin cans. They’re accepted in most recycling programs. If they’re clean, just toss them in the bin. It’s better not to fully crush or flatten them, just a little squeeze to help the lid from falling out. Rinse them if they’re gooey. Recycling machines don’t like goo, and pests do.

 

Not all metal is safe to be recycled. Can lids are OK, but sharp tools should never go in recycling or trash. They could cause serious injury to workers or equipment. Instead, donate, repair, repurpose, or sell those items to a salvage company. Never dispose of medical needles in recycling or trash either. The same goes for metal containers of toxic or flammable materials. Check locally to find out where you can safely dispose of these items.

 

More Recycling Resources

 

Once you’ve watched the video, check out these fun activities and lessons.

 

Lesson Plan: Fundamentals of Waste

Help high school students understand why waste management is a critical issue for a sustainable future. This lesson takes about an hour to complete.

 

Lesson Plan: Something From Nothing & the 3 Rs

This one is for the younger crowd. They’ll learn a new and exciting way to limit the amount of waste they produce by reusing it for something completely different!

 

Free Digital Slideshow: The Ins and Outs of Recycling

Getting ready to talk to your students about recycling? Need to lead a meeting about bringing recycling to your school? You’ll love this free recycling slideshow! It’s available in PowerPoint or Prezi.

 

Lesson Plan: The Life Cycle of Recycling

Have you ever considered what happens to an aluminum can after you drop it into the recycling bin? In this science and language arts lesson, students explore the life cycle of recycling.