How to recycle auto glass
How to recycle auto glass
How to recycle auto glassThe easiest way to get rid of an old vehicle is to simply take it to a landfill. While this may seem irresponsible to advocates of recycling, it may actually be the easiest method. It is important to note that some local landfills actually do pull old vehicles apart, and recycle components than can be recycled. One such recyclable part is auto glass. Since some landfills do recycle, for persons who choose to recycle instead of discarding old vehicles, enquiring about your local landfill's policy of handling dumped vehicles, may save you a lot of time and energy.
If however recycling is not done by the landfill, owners can choose to scrap their old vehicles, and recycle the parts themselves. Auto glass is somewhat difficult to recycle, so the process may be a bit discouraging, but it is not impossible.
How To Recycle Auto Glass
1) Remove, clean, and dry the glass.
Auto glass includes sun roof glass, windshields, side glass, and windows. Some sorting may be required since not all places will accept windshields. This is due to their composition. Modern vehicles have a windshield consisting of two layers of glass held with a layer of plastic (also referred to as an interlayer) between them. In most cases this layer is made of polyvinyl butyral. Polyvinyl butyral can be difficult to recycle hence the reluctance to accept it.
2) Locate a recycle center
Once the glass is clean, find a local recycler. Earth 911 and the Recycling Center are two online resources that can help. A normal Google search can also be done to find auto glass recyclers in your area. Once you get a list of recycle centers, contact those closest to you first. If you are unsuccessful in finding one that is willing to take your auto glass, simply expand your search.
In the event that none is willing to help, you may be able to find a recycling program at one of your local auto repair shops. Stores that sell auto supplies may also be a viable option. It is possible that you may have to consider taking your glass to different recyclers, since you may not easily find one to take everything except the windshield. Unfortunately you may still have to visit your local landfill, but the aim is recycle as much as you can.
Tip:
It may be best to have someone mechanically inclined remove the glass from your old car, since recyclers will not accept broken auto glass.