Austin is the capital city of the state of Texas. And like many capital cities across the states, Austin also struggles with managing the landfill waste issue. According to data from the Austin Community Landfill, the landfill receives an average of around 2,000 tons of garbage every day. That’s an enormous amount! Due to the progressive population growth, the city had to expand the landfill area to approximately 70 acres of land in 2005. By the time of writing this, the area might be even larger. Recognizing this fact, the local government felt the need for environmental conservation efforts to reduce waste. One of these efforts is introducing the role of Austin recycling center to the residents.
Moreover, Austin recycling center serves as eco-friendly recycling solutions that not only help reduce waste but also regenerate old items into more useful materials. Over time, the number of Austin recycling center has increased, aligning with the goal set by the Austin government to increase recycling by 90% by 2040. The city of Austin also has a curbside recycling program where residents can subscribe and set their recycling schedule.
Additionally, there is the Austin recycling guide to ensure that the community understands how to properly dispose of recyclable items into the blue bins. It is crucial to prevent the rise of contaminants to the bins. But first, let’s learn a brief history of the recycling operation in Austin.
Table of Contents
When Did Recycling Start in Austin?
Recycling operations in Austin began in the early 1970s when the city launched the “Resource Recovery Program” around 1975. This program had a primary focus on upcycling and reducing waste in landfills. It also aimed to promote recycling practices within the community. Since then, the city’s recycling program has continued to evolve.
In 1994, Austin introduced a curbside recycling program, providing residents with a convenient way to recycle their materials. Initially, acceptable materials included cardboard, paper, glass bottles, and aluminum cans. Furthermore, the city has been ambitious in improving its recycling rate. It has implemented various community recycling initiatives, including educational campaigns targeting residents, businesses, and organizations to increase awareness about recycling.
What Is The Recycling Rate in Austin?
Compared to the state of Texas, Austin has a relatively higher recycling rate. According to data from Trash in America (TexPIRG), Texas has only achieved a recycling rate of around 22%, which is lower than the national average of approximately 34%. In contrast, Austin has achieved a recycling rate nearly twice that figure, reaching about 41.96%.
The Austin city government, through Austin Resource Recovery, has recorded the recovery of approximately 63,030 tons of recyclable materials from landfills. Additionally, they have obtained around 53,455 tons of compostable materials for composting through curbside collections from both single-family homes and multifamily properties participating in the program.
With these achievements, Austin leads the way in recycling accomplishments within the state of Texas. Despite this remarkable progress in diverting recyclables, the local government expects more. They have set an even higher goal to recycle 90% of landfill waste, aiming to leave only 10% in the landfill by 2040.
Does Austin Have A Recycling Program?
Since the introduction of recycling in Austin and the government’s active efforts in organizing community recycling initiatives, the recycling program in Austin has significantly developed. Today, the city has an excellent upcycling program known as curbside recycling.
This program enables residents to easily dispose of and recycle their renewable materials. Some examples of recyclable items accepted by the curbside recycling service include milk cartons, metal cans, plastic bottles, paper (including shredded paper), cardboard, and aluminum cans. It also accept compostable materials for composting!
Before enjoying the convenience of this curbside recycling program, residents need to subscribe to the service by contacting the Austin Resource Recovery department at 512-494-9400. If needed, you can also request additional blue carts to accommodate your recyclables.
In addition to this program, you can also bring your renewable items to an Austin drop-off center. These centers accept a wide range of materials that are not suitable for the blue bins, including scrap metals, electronic waste, appliances, and household hazardous waste. Find the drop-off center closest to your neighborhood, or consult the list below to find one that best meets your needs.
What Is The Fine for Recycling In Austin Texas?
As a city in Texas that leads in recycling, the Austin government tends to be strict in implementing recycling policies in their region. This applies to individual residents, property owners, and business owners. They are responsible for providing recycling bins and easy access to recycling methods.
Additionally, they are also required to sign annual recycling contracts to ensure that their properties and businesses comply with the recycling rules set by the government. If they violate these regulations, the government does not hesitate to impose fines of up to $2,000 per day, per offense. These regulations are stipulated in the Austin City Code Chapter 1-6, which states that such violations fall under the category of Class C misdemeanors.
How Do You Recycle in Austin, Texas?
There are two options commonly used by Austin residents to recycle their items. For those with tight schedules, subscribing to the curbside recycling program is the best way to recycle. Simply contact the Austin Resource Recovery department at 512-494-9400 to subscribe to this service. You will receive a blue recycling bin to accommodate your items. However, we recommend visiting their website first at www.austintexas.gov and selecting the “Residential Recycling Collection” menu to find out about their services.
The curbside recycling program accepts various recyclables, including paper, plastic bottles, metal cans, aluminum cans, and more. But before placing them in the blue cart, make sure they are dry, clean, with no liquid, dirt, or food residue. If you dispose of these materials when they are dirty, they will litter the entire bin and render the recyclables ineligible for recycling, ultimately ending up in landfills.
Furthermore, you need to place the blue cart approximately 5 feet away from the trash and composting bins to facilitate safe collection by the crews. Additionally, all materials must be placed in the cart by 5:30 AM on your scheduled collection day. Do not keep your recyclables in bags, except for shredded paper, which should be placed in a paper bag. No plastic bags are allowed in the blue recycling carts!
In addition to curbside recycling, you can also take your recyclables to an Austin drop-off center. They typically accept a wide range of items that the blue carts don’t take. Examples include scrap metals, hazardous household materials, electronic waste, and more. If you don’t have a vehicle to transport the items to the recycling facility, you can also look for Austin recycling center pickup services.
Austin Recycling Center
The capital city of Austin, Texas has excellent recycling services that make it easy for its residents to dispose of recyclables conveniently. Additionally, there are many privately-owned or family-owned recycling centers in Austin that have emerged in recent years. They also contribute to handling recyclable materials, especially those that are not accepted by the curbside recycling program.
If you are looking for a facility that can help you dispose of your recyclable items, we have compiled a list of Austin recycling center for you to consider. Some of them may even offer Austin recycling center pickup services for convenient collection. Take a look at the list!
1. Duke’s Austin Junk Removal & Recycling Drop-Off Center
Let’s start the list with Duke’s Austin Junk Removal & Recycling Drop-Off Center! It is like a one-stop location to accommodate all your needs in disposing your recyclables. You can dump almost all unaccepted materials to the blue cart, from mattress to the furnitures.
Unfortunately, we can’t get more information regarding the business history. But all we know that this Austin recycling center will help you deal with your junk in a clean and convenient way!
Services
Duke’s Austin Junk Removal & Recycling Drop-Off center offers a variety of exciting services. One of their popular services is junk removal. Simply call their phone number and the junk hauling specialists will promptly arrive to unload all your junk, making it hassle-free for you.
Another highly-rated service they provide is the junk drop-off center. You can drive to the address listed below and easily drop off your accepted recyclable items, including old furniture. If you need to dispose of furniture specifically, they also offer furniture removal services at a reasonable price, ensuring the best service quality. Additionally, this recycling facility accepts mattress disposal. You can either drop off your mattress at the drop-off center or schedule a pick-up service for assistance.
If you have a large quantity of expired products that you need to dispose of, you can request their product destruction service. This service will safely and conveniently destroy the products without contributing to landfill waste. Importantly, they guarantee security and privacy during the destruction process.
Address
1602 Bench Mark Dr, Austin, TX 78728, United States.
Website
Phone
+1 512-520-7495
Hours
- Sunday 10:00 AM – 03:00 PM
- Monday 08:30 AM – 04:30 PM
- Tuesday 08:30 AM – 04:30 PM
- Wednesday 08:30 AM – 04:30 PM
- Thursday 08:30 AM – 04:30 PM
- Friday 08:30 AM – 04:30 PM
- Saturday 10:00 AM – 03:00 PM
Rating by Google
4.9 of 5 Stars.
Users Review
Here are some customer summary about the Duke’s Austin Junk Removal & Recycling Drop-Off Center service:
- “Thank you once again. Was very responsive and took my Styrofoam packaging to be recycled. Definitely recommend it!” – EnterpriseATP
- “I forgot the guy who helped me unload my uhaul full of junk, but he was very helpful and so friendly. Their prices are great compared to the other businesses I spoke with in the area. They made the whole process very easy! Highly recommend it!” – Rachel Higa
- “Having someone come by to pick up junk can be expensive — Dropping things off a Duke’s is great if you’ve got junk but not enough junk to pay someone to come out. Plus the staff are always helpful both on the phone and in person.” – Matt Brown
Our Reviews
This Austin recycling facility provides a one-stop service that is handy for customers, especially those with tight schedules. It also opens every day, even on the weekends, which offers flexibility for customers to book their services. In addition, we notice that the website is packed with useful information that enables customers to learn and navigate the recycling center. We also appreciate that most loyal customers are satisfied with their friendly services, assistance, and helpful staff.
Question and Answer
- Question – “Can I just show up and unload during business hours?”
- Answer – “Yes, you can. Give us a call to let us know you are on the way or just show up during business hours. We have staff on-site to help unload.”
- Question – “Do you have a second hand store on-site? Thank you!”
- Answer – “We do not, sorry! We do break down all junk and furniture to recycle whatever is possible.”
2. STS Electronic Recycling
In case you need an assistance in recycling your electronic waste, old computers, and other related devices, STS Electronic Recycling is ready to serve you. It is one of the best recycling facilities in Austin where you can divert your e-waste for free! What could be better?
Similar to the previus recycling service, we don’t have many clues about its upbringing. But, the we can assure you that the business will cater your needs, proven by the high ratings on the Google that shows customers satisfaction at its best!
Services
As its name suggests, STS Electronic Recycling is a recycling facility specializes in handling electronic waste. In addition, it also accepts data destruction service that ensures secure and private destruction with no hassle. The recycling center has obtained HIPAA, FACTA, SOX, and FERPA standardization that will assures proper destruction and disposal of your data and electronic waste. Here are some of the electronic stuff STS Electronic Recycling accepts to divert:
- Cables
- Computers
- Circuit boards
- Electronic light ballast
- Laptops
- LCD screens
- Modems
- Monitors
- Motherboards
- Networking hardware
- Servers
- Telephones
- Telecommunication equipment
- Wiring
To book STS Electronic Recycling service, you can contact the enlisted phone number or email at [email protected]. We also recommend checking on the website to learn more about the services before requesting for assistance.
Address
9442 N Capital of Texas Hwy Plaza 1, Austin, TX 78759, United States.
Website
www.stselectronicrecyclinginc.com/austin
Phone
+1 512-340-7393
Hours
- Sunday Closed
- Monday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Tuesday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Wednesday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Thursday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Friday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Saturday Closed
Rating by Google
4.8 of 5 Stars.
Users Review
Here are some customer summary about the STS Electronic Recycling service:
- “Once scheduled, they arrived on time and were able to clear out the whole area of all our e-waste. We will continue to schedule pickups with them!” – Suzy Jennings
- “STS and their support Team, Vanessa Whitaker, have made my IT recycling smoother than ever. No complications and very accommodating! Keep it up!!” – Herman Santos
- “On time, courteous, loaded a ton of stuff without groaning and was in and out quickly! I couldn’t recommend these folks more.” – Jamie Poltronieri
Our Reviews
You can rely on STS Computer Recycling when it comes to diverting your electronic waste, computers, and other devices. The service is free of charge, making it super affordable and recommended for Austin residents with limited recycling budget. Not only that, but you can also destroy your unused or expired data’s to protect their security. Moreover, the website is relatively informative to learn briefly about its services and facilities. One thing that we highlight is the open hours are limited to weekdays.
Question and Answer
- Question – “Can I bring a 2007 Big Screen Samsung TV there to be recycled that is still all in one piece? And if so, what can I get for it?”
- Answer – “We don’t accept drop offs at this location. You can call the office and we can give you some options for recycling your TV.”
3. Austin Recycle & Reuse Drop-Off Center
This is the recycling center that’s handled by the Austin government: Austin Recycle & Reuse Drop-Off Center. Along with curbside recycling program, the government initiates this drop-off to accommodate items that are not acceptable in blue carts.
They launched the program in accordance with the Austin goal to reach 90% of recycling rate by 2040. Moreover, Austin and Travis county residents can use this facility to send their recyclables for free! To know more about its services, you can check the following section.
Services
The Austin Recycle & Reuse Drop-Off Center is a government facility aimed at promoting recycling within the community. They even provide this service free of charge for those residing in the Austin and Travis County area. However, there is an exception for dropping off tires, which will incur a cost of around $6 to $7 per tire, depending on the size. Here is a list of accepted items at this recycling facility:
Electronics and Appliances
- Televisions
- Computers
- Cell phones and chargers
- Lawn mowers and weed eaters
- Printers and fax machines
- Electronic media, such as CDs (remove and get rid of jewel cases), DVDs, and floppy disks
- Washers and dryers
- Exercise equipment
- Air conditioners
- Water heaters
- Stoves
- Lamps
- Microwaves
- Kitchen appliances
Household Hazardous Materials
- Mercury
- Aerosol cans
- Pool chemicals
- Cooking oil
- Propane cylinders
- Paint and thinners
- Cleaning products
- Batteries (car and households)
- Fluorescent light bulbs
- Pesticides and herbicides
- Automotive fluid and oil filters
Other Recyclables
- Scrap
- Pet carriers
- Trash cans
- Children pools
- Cardboard
- Hard plastic
- Clothing
- Houseware
- Paper
- Cans and foil
- Glass bottles and jars
- Lawn chairs and furniture
- Playground equipment
- Plastic bags (clean and dry)
- Plastic film/wrap (clean and dry)
- Styrofoam (clean and dry, no peanuts)
This facility also offers a ReUse store where you can discover high-quality, second-hand items that are still in good condition, and best of all, they’re free! Additionally, at the recycling drop-off center, you can obtain mulch for your gardening needs. Just remember to bring your shovel, work gloves, and containers to collect the mulch.
Furthermore, if you have any unused or expired paints, you can take advantage of the Austin ReBlend Paint facility, which is open to individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations. However, when it comes to the disposal of household hazardous materials, this service is not applicable to businesses.
Address
2514 Business Center Dr, Austin, TX 78744, United States.
Website
Phone
+1 512-974-4343
Hours
- Sunday 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Monday 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Tuesday 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Wednesday 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Thursday 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Friday 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Saturday Closed
Rating by Google
4.7 of 5 Stars.
Users Review
Here are some customer summary about the Austin Recycle & Reuse Drop-Off Center service:
- “Everybody was very friendly and their process was efficient and easy to understand. I made an appointment and dropped off ten years’ worth of old pesticides, pool chemicals, and paint from my garage and it took maybe three minutes from start to finish. This is a great local service.” – Jeremy Todd
- “Schedule a visit to pickup mulch, drop off electronic, paint, appliances you’d like to recycle and even pick-up free recycled flat interior paint in 3 different colors! People are always nice and helpful. Highly recommend using this wonderful and free service!” – Ruby Kissoyan
- “Free recycling dropoff of e waste and toxics! Make sure to take your free mulch and house paint! 👏” – Nick Martin
Our Reviews
We are truly impressed by the remarkable efforts and dedication of the Austin government in providing an exceptional recycling facility for its residents. What’s even more impressive is that most of the services offered are completely free of charge!
This facility accepts a wide variety of materials that are not accepted in the regular blue carts, ranging from hazardous items to electronic waste. Moreover, residents have the opportunity to acquire free second-hand items, mulch, and even house paint from this convenient recycling drop-off center. It’s important to note, however, that bulky items such as mattresses and furniture are not accepted at this facility.
Question and Answer
- Question – “Will the city pick up a plastic swimming pool that is cut into pieces during the bulk collection this week?”
- Answer – “Hi Bill, if it’s still in useable condition we always encourage donation first. If it can no longer be used and it is a hard plastic material it can go into your blue recycling cart so long as it fits in with the lid closed. If you ever have questions about what to do with an item, look it up with our handy tool: http://austintexas.gov/what-do-i-do.”
- Question – “I’ve been collecting plastic bottle caps (milk/water/soda). Can I recycle or donate?”
- Answer – “Yes, bottle caps can be recycled, either in your blue recycling cart or at the Recycle & Reuse Drop-off Center. Whenever you’re in doubt, you can use our handy tool to find out what to do with an item: austintexas.gov/what-do-i-do.”
4. Wright Recycling LLC
There isn’t much information available about the history of Wright Recycling LLC. The website provides limited details, stating that it is a family-owned recycling facility serving the Austin, Texas area.
Nevertheless, Wright Recycling LLC might be the ideal choice for those looking to dispose of metal materials. This metal recycling facility accepts a wide range of scrap metal items at a reasonable price!
Services
Unfortunately, the website doesn’t provide thorough information regarding the services that Wright Recycling LLC offers. However, it says that the recycling center accepts and buys your scrap metal for amazing prices. There are some items they will take from you, including:
- Brass
- Copper
- Aluminum
- Steel
- Iron
- Electronics
- Household appliances
- Old metal lawn furniture
- Air conditions and their units
To obtain more complete information about Wright Recycling LLC, we highly recommend contacting their phone number. You can also drive off to the site at the address listed below.
Address
9513 Brown Ln, Austin, TX 78754, United States.
Website
Phone
+1 512-367-0915
Hours
- Sunday Closed
- Monday 08:30 AM – 04:30 PM
- Tuesday 08:30 AM – 04:30 PM
- Wednesday 08:30 AM – 04:30 PM
- Thursday 08:30 AM – 04:30 PM
- Friday 08:30 AM – 04:30 PM
- Saturday 09:00 AM – 01:30 PM
Rating by Google
4.6 of 5 Stars.
Users Review
Here are some customer summary about the Wright Recycling LLC service:
- “Wright recycling is the place to go, they pay better than any one in Austin, especially on A/C units .” – Gershom Escobar
- “This is the first and only place that I have been to since moving here 5 years ago. I’ve only been once and ALL the staff were absolutely phenomenal!! I will be coming back today for a second visit, hoping the great service is still there!!” – Justin Dean
- “I’ve been in many recycling centers in Austin and this is by far the best one. They are honest and pay well for your scrap metal. One of the few places in town that opens on Saturday too (From 08.00 AM – 01:30 PM). HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! 👏” – Luis Lee
Our Reviews
This recycling center in Austin offers metal recycling, where you can bring your scrap metal, including aluminum, steel, and brass, here. Most customers mentioned that they also buy the metals at great prices! Moreover, we also love the fact that it opens every day, which allows a flexible schedule for the customers to visit the drop-off center. However, we have no clues about detailed services since the website doesn’t include much information regarding the facility.
Question and Answer
- Question – “What’s the price on recycle copper?”
- Answer – “You need to call 512 367 0915 to get current prices.”
- Question – “Do you all accept aluminum cans?”
- Answer – “Yes, we do. Right now we are paying .36 cents per pound.”
5. CMC Recycling
Actually, CMC Recycling has several branches. However, this location has the highest rate of Google reviews regarding its services. This recycling center has served the greater South and North Austin area for over 35 years.
It also claims to have a good price for buying your scrap metal. Knowing it has been in business for decades, CMC Recycling has around a 13-acre footprint to handle your recyclable metal materials without disturbing the surrounding.
Services
As we briefly discussed, CMC Recycling is a metal recycling facility that offers the best prices for your scrap metal. In addition to serving individuals, this recycling center in Austin also accepts partnerships with businesses and commercial organizations for recycling purposes. Here is a list of ferrous and non-ferrous metals that you can sell at this facility:
- Aluminum coolers
- Aluminum/copper reefers
- Aluminum/copper reefers (w/FE)
- Aluminum clips (MLC)
- 6063 Aluminum
- 6061 Aluminum (no plate/sheet)
- Aluminum cans
- Clean aluminum wheels
- Cast aluminum
- Sheet aluminum
- Irony aluminum
- PTD aluminum siding
- Clean lead
- Lead batteries – automotive
- No 1 Copper
- No 2 Copper
- LT Copper
- Yellow brass
- Red brass
- Refinery brass (>50%)
- Brass radiators
- 304 Stainless Steel
- #1 Prepared scrap metal
- #2 Unprepared scrap metal
- Cast Iron
- Shred/Tin
To know more about detailed pricing and services, you can call on the phone number listed below. And please note that, you are required to show a valid ID issued by the state of Texas when it comes to payment.
Address
710 Industrial Blvd, Austin, TX 78745, United States (South).
1704 W Howard Ln, Austin, TX 78728, United States (North).
Website
www.cmcrecycling.com/locations/austin-south
Phone
+1 512-442-2384
Hours
- Sunday Closed
- Monday 08:00 AM – 04:30 PM
- Tuesday 08:00 AM – 04:30 PM
- Wednesday 08:00 AM – 04:30 PM
- Thursday 08:00 AM – 04:30 PM
- Friday 08:00 AM – 04:30 PM
- Saturday Closed
Rating by Google
4.5 of 5 Stars.
Users Review
Here are some customer summary about the CMC Recycling service:
- “Always friendly and helpful!” – Ryan Spates
- “CMC HAS ALWAYS BEEN FAIR IN PRICES AND VERY FRIENDLY STAFF. THEY MAKE YOU FEEL LIKE YOU ARE PART OF THERE FAMILY… THANKS CMC FOR YOUR PROFESSIONAL AND WELCOMING EXPERIENCE.” – Stevo
- “Go quick service at the scale and small scale also at the cashier office. Thx CMC.” – Luis Lee
Our Reviews
When it comes to metal recycling, you can rely on CMC Recycling. They accept a wide range of non-ferrous and ferrous materials, so you don’t need to go anywhere else to recycle your scrap metals. Customers love their fair pricing, which is a hallmark of their recycling service.
Additionally, Austin has two CMC Recycling facilities, making it convenient for you to visit the one closest to your location. However, please note that their website does not provide a pricing list, so you will need to call them directly to inquire about pricing details.
Question and Answer
- Question – “Do you accept chain link fencing?”
- Answer – “Yes.”
- Question – “Do they have a certified scale? Need weight for trailer registration.”
- Answer – “Yes, they can fix you up. I’m not sure about the cost.”
6. Austin Wood Recycling
You can certainly bet that Austin Wood Recycling is a recycling facility that accepts a wide range of wooden materials. Well, you’re not entirely incorrect. This recycling facility was actually established in 1987 by Michael Martin, who initially started with a small landscaping business in Austin, TX.
Starting from a dream and materializing into a small business, Austin Wood Recycling has now become one of the leading landscaping companies that also provides a recycling facility. Today, it employs over 230 individuals and generates an annual revenue of $60 million.
Services
Although they offer green waste recycling for their customers, we couldn’t find detailed information about this service. However, we do know that they convert the green waste into high-quality mulch that customers can purchase at competitive prices. If you want to learn more about this service, you can contact them at the provided phone number.
Nevertheless, we can gather more information about their other landscaping services. In addition to recycling, they provide clearing services, including stump removal, land clearing for various projects, and selective removal for specific sites. They also offer grinding services that efficiently convert green waste into mulch for commercial, business, and residential purposes.
Furthermore, the recycling center offers hauling services to transport heavy equipment and deliver landscaping products, including mulch, to designated locations. Lastly, you can book tractor mowing services to maintain your field in top condition.
Address
9201 FM812, Austin, TX 78719, United States.
Website
Phone
+1 512-243-1212
Hours
- Sunday Closed
- Monday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Tuesday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Wednesday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Thursday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Friday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Saturday 08:00 AM – 02:00 PM
Rating by Google
4.5 of 5 Stars.
Users Review
Here are some customer summary about the Austin Wood Recycling service:
- “Same great service and products. But like everything else, the fees have gone up to dump debris.” – Steve “STEVO” Garza
- “Great place to buy good, quality mulch. Candace is always friendly and very helpful.” – Andrea K.
- “Best wood mulch around. Best prices.” – Happy Freeman
Our Reviews
If you are someone with a passion for landscaping and also looking for a place to recycle your green waste, Austin Wood Recycling is the perfect choice. It provides everything you need in one place. Not only will you find a recycling facility, but you can also obtain high-quality mulch from this location.
Unfortunately, the information regarding the specific services offered by Austin Wood Recycling for its recycling facility is limited on their website. Therefore, you may need to give them a call to learn more about the green waste recycling service they provide.
Question and Answer
- Question – “Does it cost anything to drop off wood scraps?”
- Answer – “Yes, depending on the amount.”
- Question – “Do you take laminated particle board?”
- Answer – “Sorry sir, no.”
7. All American Recycling
Some people have more trust and prefer recycling businesses that have been established for decades. They believe that such recycling centers are able to sustain themselves due to the excellent services they provide to their loyal customers.
If you are one of those people with such beliefs, you will find All American Recycling to be a perfect match for your needs. This family-owned and operated recycling center in Austin has been running since 1984. They will recycle and purchase your scrap metal at competitive prices that aim to satisfy you.
Services
Knowing this recycling facility specializes in scrap metals, it accepts various metal materials, be it ferrous or non-ferrous ones, to recycle. The following is a list of scrap metals that All American Recycling will buy:
- Aluminum
- Batteries
- Brass
- Computers
- Copper
- Auto parts
- Catalytic converters
- Iron
- Lead
- Stainless Steel
- Radiators
In addition to the items mentioned above, All American Recycling also provides pick-up services for scrap vehicles. However, this service is available only for locations within a 25-mile radius from their facility. To learn more about their pricing list, we recommend calling the phone number provided or inquiring directly at the address below.
Address
9201 FM812, Austin, TX 78719, United States.
Website
Phone
+1 512-243-1183
Hours
- Sunday Closed
- Monday 08:00 AM – 04:30 PM
- Tuesday 08:00 AM – 04:30 PM
- Wednesday 08:00 AM – 04:30 PM
- Thursday 08:00 AM – 04:30 PM
- Friday 08:00 AM – 04:30 PM
- Saturday 08:00 AM – 02:30 PM
Rating by Google
4.3 of 5 Stars.
Users Review
Here are some customer summary about the All American Recycling service:
- “If you are recycling old batteries, they go by the pound it’s $.13 (this may change but as of today). Also, if you’re selling a catalytic converter you have to have your ID and title for the car with you. Hope this helps.” – Jen Rodriguez
- “Great, fast service!” – Michael Bowser
- “Excellent service! These guys helped me unload my truck and separate all the scraps I brought in and gave me a good price for it!!.” – Juan Alvarez
Our Reviews
The recycling center accepts various types of scrap metals, making it convenient for you to recycle and sell your metal recyclables. Additionally, we appreciate the fact that they offer pick-up services for scrap vehicles, as customers sometimes struggle to transport them to the drop-off facility.
Furthermore, the recycling business has flexible operating hours, allowing you to visit even on Saturdays. However, we don’t have pricing details as they are not available on the website. Some customers have also complained about slow customer service at the site. Due to the high traffic during peak hours, it’s advisable to arrive early for faster service.
Question and Answer
- Question – “Do you take aluminum rims?”
- Answer – “Yes, they take aluminum rims.”
- Question – “How do I recycle circuit boards?”
- Answer – “Separate them from wires and metal and collect the circuit boards till you have a good amount and then take them in they will weigh them and pay you by the pound.”
8. Austin Metal & Iron Co LP
Here we have another well-established recycling company that offers excellent services! Austin Metal & Iron Co LP is a family-owned recycling business that was founded back in 1913. It has been operating for over 100 years!
The founders of this recycling center were brothers Jim and Sam Novy, who were the pioneers of the metal recycling business in Austin, Texas. Even to this day, Austin Metal & Iron Co LP continues to run its business, constantly improving the services and products they offer to their customers.
Services
Considering Austin Metal & Iron Co LP is a pioneer in metal recycling, their main service is scrap metal recycling. They will accept and buy your metal junk at attractive and competitive prices. The following is a list of items that are acceptable in this facility:
- Aluminum
- Appliances
- Bicycles
- Brass
- Bronze
- Cans
- Cast Iron
- Computers
- Containers
- Copper
- Copper pipes, tubes, wires
- Metal patio
- Pots and pans
- Sinks and faucets
- Stainless Steel
- Steel
- Window frames
Not only do they accept those items, but Austin Metal & Iron Co LP will also accommodate your junk cars. Furthermore, they accept wheels, engine parts, radiators, transmissions, shells, frames, motors, and any steel, iron, or aluminum parts for recycling. In addition to serving individual residents, this recycling center also caters to companies and businesses for handling their scrap metal junk.
Address
10506 Decker Ln, Austin, TX 78724, United States.
1000 E 4th St, Austin, TX 78702, United States.
Website
Phone
+1 512-272-8111
Hours
- Sunday Closed
- Monday 07:30 AM – 04:00 PM
- Tuesday 07:30 AM – 04:00 PM
- Wednesday 07:30 AM – 04:00 PM
- Thursday 07:30 AM – 04:00 PM
- Friday 07:30 AM – 04:00 PM
- Saturday 07:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Rating by Google
4.3 of 5 Stars.
Users Review
Here are some customer summary about the Austin Metal & Iron Co LP service:
- “My beer buddy said, ” Heck, I’ll never be lazy about coming here again”. We recycled our empty beer cans and we can’t wait to make more.” – Olivia Monica
- “Helpful staff. Don’t visit on rainy days – it’s a very muddy lot.” – George VandeWerken
- “Great guys. Honest and keep current with the going rate. I wish I knew the older guys name but he has explained to me different ways to separate and prepare what I brought in so I can get the price per pound higher.” – Jack Cole Barton Jr.
Our Reviews
Austin Metal & Iron Co LP has been in business for over a century. It’s no wonder that they have a website with comprehensive service information to help customers navigate their offerings. Additionally, they accept a variety of scrap metals, so you don’t need to find separate places to dispose of different types.
However, some customers have complained about the low payment rates for scrap. Instead of going to the facility without knowledge of the pricing, it’s advisable to make a call in advance and inquire about it. This way, you can estimate how much money you will receive.
Question and Answer
- Question – “What’s the price for clean aluminum?”
- Answer – “30 cents per pound but prices may vary.”
- Question – “Do you have any 3 inch 12 foot steel pipe for sale?”
- Answer – “I use this place is a scrap yard. I do not think they sell products you may want to call.”
9. Balcones Resources
Compared to the previous recycling centers, Balcones Resources is relatively younger in terms of business age. It was established in the early 90s, precisely in 1994. The founders of this recycling business, Kerry and Becky Getter, established this facility with the aim of building strong relationships with customers while also exploring innovative solutions to convert recyclables from the waste stream.
To this day, it remains the first recycling company to offer single-stream recycling in Texas. They not only serve the community but also provide services for companies and organizations to manage their recyclables.
Services
Balcones Resources offers several outstanding services. One of them is the cart service. It is a rental service that provides 96-gallon toter carts for your recyclables in small offices, multi-family units, or small-to-medium businesses.
Moreover, if you need one for your large businesses or warehouses, it is recommended to book the dumpster service. Unlike the previous option, it provides several dumpster size options, including 2-yard, 4-yard, 6-yard, and 8-yard, which can be placed around the building. These dumpsters are suitable for strip malls, warehouses, and multi-tenant buildings. If you require a larger size, the compactor service offers a 40-yard dumpster.
Additionally, Balcones Resources provides event recycling service where you can rent waste disposal bins in various sizes. These bins are perfect for managing trash at concerts, festivals, or races. Furthermore, they offer bale service that includes hauling, equipment rental, and baling ware. This service is intended for recyclers, transfer stations, and manufacturing facilities.
Please note that only acceptable items are allowed to be disposed of in the bins, such as plastic bottles and containers, paper, cardboard, tin containers, aluminum cans, glass bottles and jars, and cartons.
Address
9301 Johnny Morris Rd, Austin, TX 78724, United States.
Website
Phone
+1 512-472-3355
Hours
- Sunday Closed
- Monday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Tuesday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Wednesday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Thursday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Friday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Saturday Closed
Rating by Google
4.3 of 5 Stars.
Users Review
Here are some customer summary about the Balcones Resources service:
- “The nicest shipper around. I wish other places were as organized as you are all here. Very impressed. Ty have a blessed day.” – Tonja Lockhart
- “Everyone was extremely nice. Look forward to coming back. Also one of the cleanest recycling places that I’ve been to in a long time.” – Anne Ray
- “There pretty good organization, fast professional and hard working they exceeded my expectations.” – Erasmo Morales
Our Reviews
Despite being a relatively young recycling business, Balcones Resources has proven that they can provide excellent services that meet customer satisfaction. They offer a wide range of services to cater to the needs of individuals, businesses, and companies.
Some loyal customers have praised the cleanliness and organization of Balcones Resources’ recycling facility. However, the facility can get quite busy, especially during peak hours. It is advisable to arrive early to ensure the best experience at the facility.
Question and Answer
- Question – “Do they take styrofoam?”
- Answer – “Hello! We do not accept nor recycle styrofoam at our recycling facility. The City of Austin Recyle & Reuse Drop-Off Center does accept styrofoam and film plastics.”
- Question – “Do they charge to drop off cardboard boxes and packing paper?”
- Answer – “Hi there! We offer free drop-off containers at our Austin location. Please recycle only cardboard, paper, newspaper, plastic & glass containers and aluminum cans.”
10. Gardner Metal Recycling
It appears that Austin, Texas has several excellent options for recycling scrap metals. In addition to the ones we have previously reviewed, we have another leading company in metal recycling that has been serving the Austin community for decades: Gardner Metal Recycling.
This recycling business has been operating for over 60 years, covering the Central Texas area, including Austin. Furthermore, as a family-owned recycling facility, they also offer expert consultation for businesses that will utilize their services. For more details about their services, please refer to the following section.
Services
With decades of serving the community, it comes as no surprise that this recycling center offers a range of services to meet customer needs. One of their standout services is scrap metal pickup. As the name suggests, this service helps businesses and individuals remove junk from construction sites while offering competitive prices for the recyclable materials. To schedule this service, simply call and request assistance.
Furthermore, Gardner Metal Recycling also provides metal recycling container rentals, allowing you to choose from a variety of sizes (20, 30, and 40 cubic yards) to accommodate your recyclables. The containers will be delivered, and once filled, you can call to have them promptly removed within 48 hours.
In addition to these services, the recycling center also offers demolition and clearing services. This is particularly useful for those embarking on new projects and requiring immediate assistance in clearing the site. And, most importantly, you can sell your scrap metals at Gardner Metal Recycling facility and receive competitive prices in return.
Address
9701 US-290, Austin, TX 78724, United States.
Website
Phone
+1 512-292-1022
Hours
- Sunday Closed
- Monday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Tuesday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Wednesday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Thursday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Friday 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Saturday Closed
Rating by Google
3.8 of 5 Stars.
Users Review
Here are some customer summary about the Gardner Metal Recycling service:
- “It’s a nice clean place with great employees and great pay for scrap.” – Arnoldo Lopez
- “Thanks for such a great location. Had lots of electronics to recycle.” – Gladys Agyemang
- “Honestly great service, and by far best prices for your metal, been recycling with them for 2 years, great people.” – Erick Alonso
Our Reviews
This is the ideal place for those who prefer to sell their scrap metals to a recycling company with a long history. With their extensive experience serving numerous customers, they offer a diverse range of services. You can find detailed information about each service on their website.
Several customers have mentioned that the site is well-organized and clean, ensuring a pleasant experience. However, we recommend calling them to inquire about pricing before heading to the facility, as some customers have expressed concerns about the prices.
Question and Answer
- Question – “How much is it per lb on the copper?”
- Answer – “Bare bright copper wire is $3.85, copper pipe is $3.65.”
- Question – “Washers and dryers are OK?”
- Answer – “Yes, all metals. Only no glass.”
Final Thoughts
The capital city of Austin is a leader when it comes to recycling centers. It surpasses Texas with a recycling rate that far exceeds the average target for states. This success is supported by the efforts of the government in providing proper recycling facilities that allow residents to conveniently dispose of their recyclables. And amazingly, it’s all free!
But that’s not all, Austin also has top-notch private and family-owned recycling centers that accept items that are not accepted under the curbside recycling program and the Austin drop-off center. This provides residents with more opportunities to divert their recyclable items to recycling facilities instead of dumping them in landfills. With all these advantages, you can participate and educate yourself in sorting your waste. Make sure you only throw accepted items into the blue bins to prevent contamination.
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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
How many people recycle in Austin Texas?
Like other state capitals, Austin has a sustainable waste management program that includes recycling center services. The government has also launched a curbside recycling facility as part of Austin recycling programs. This initiative aims to promote responsible waste disposal and green initiatives in Austin, with the goal of reducing waste in landfills.
According to the Annual Report of Austin Resource Recovery 2021, there are 209,981 single-family homes and multifamily properties that subscribe to Austin recycling programs, specifically the curbside recycling service.
Does Austin recycle plastic bags?
Although recycling center services in Austin accept a variety of materials, it’s important to note that plastic bags are unacceptable. They are considered contaminants and should not be placed in the blue recycling bins provided by the curbside recycling service.
Fortunately, many grocery stores offer specific recycling drop-off locations for plastic bags, usually located near the store entrances. However, we strongly encourage you to contribute to environmental conservation efforts by reducing the use of plastic bags altogether. Instead, consider using biodegradable options or switching to reusable tote bags.
Does Austin recycle milk cartons?
While plastic bags cannot be recycled in curbside recycling bins, milk cartons are accepted and recycled at the recycling facility in Austin! This includes milk cartons made of Tetra Pak and paperboard used for food packaging.
You can easily dispose of them by placing them in your blue bins and allowing the recycling crews to collect them on the designated recycling schedule. However, please remember that all recyclables must be clean, dry, and empty before being discarded. Otherwise, they will be considered contaminants and, unfortunately, sent to the landfill.
Does Austin recycle pill bottles?
The Austin recycling guide does not provide specific information about recycling pill bottles. However, we can make an assessment based on their material. Pill bottles are typically made of plastic and their small size can potentially disrupt the sorting machinery, similar to plastic bags. To ensure responsible waste disposal, please refrain from placing pill bottles in the recycling blue bins.
Instead, you can take pill bottles to nearby pharmacies or drug stores, as they often have designated recycling bins for medicinal waste. Another option is to reach out to local recycling drop-off locations or contact the appropriate authorities responsible for sustainable waste management in your area. They can provide further information regarding the recycling of pill bottles.
Can you recycle shredded paper in Austin?
As one of the eco-friendly recycling solutions, the city of Austin recycle shredded paper that is often wasted and thrown into bins. You can dispose of it in the blue bins provided by the curbside recycling service. However, please note that it is important to contain the shredded paper in a paper bag before placing it in the blue bins. This is crucial to prevent scattered paper inside the bins, which can potentially cause issues with the sorting machines.