Whether you’re looking for a provider to pick up trash for your new business or want to reduce how much you’re currently spending for commercial waste collection. 

There are many easy ways to streamline the trash removal process.

Follow these tips to get better service rates and avoid unexpected dumpster fees on your monthly invoice.

1. Ordering On Time.

For many new business owners, a dumpster is the last thing on their minds as they get ready to open. 

That’s why many people wait until the last minute to set up their trash pickup service.

But if you don’t rent your dumpster in time, you might risk failing your inspection. 

Most dumpster companies can’t deliver a bin and start service with such short notice. This is especially true if it’s a day before or the day of the inspection.

To prevent this from happening, it’s best to get a container delivered one week before you open your business – at the latest. 

You’ll also want to give yourself a few days (or even weeks) beforehand to research haulers and find the best waste solution for your organization.

2. Know The Rules.

If you’re not following local garbage collection regulations, you risk being fined by the city. 

With commercial trash removal, there are a few key regulations to look out for. 

Get in touch with your local municipality to ask about:

• Recycling Requirements
• E-Waste Regulations
• Food Waste Requirements
• Permits or Licenses

Many states and cities in the U.S. have mandatory recycling requirements for commercial businesses. 

For example, the state of California requires that commercial businesses that produce four cubic yards or more of garbage per week implement recycling programs. 

Ask your municipality if you need to recycle certain types of waste such as cardboard, plastic or metal cans.

3. The Right Size.

The four most common commercial dumpster sizes are:

• 2 yards
• 4 yards
• 6 yards
• 8 yards

The size names indicate the volume of waste (in cubic yards) they can hold.

Generally, you’ll want to select a size based on how much waste your organization produces. 

Here’s a chart breaking down the average capacity, typical dimensions and industries that are best for each dumpster size:

Keep in mind how much space you have available on-site to safely place a bin. 

Your business may generate enough waste to fill an 8 yard container, but if you only have a limited amount of space, you may have to rent a smaller size.

Thankfully, if this is your first time choosing a dumpster size for a business location, you don’t have to go at it blindly. 

We’ll help you choose the dumpster size that fits the amount of waste your business typically produces within your pickup timeframe.

That way, you won’t be paying for extra pickups or for more volume than you really need.

4. Where To Place It.

At this point, you’ve selected a dumpster size. 

But where will your container go when it gets delivered?

In most cases, waste providers will go out to the property to make sure it’s serviceable and to determine the location before accepting the customer. 

Your garbage collection provider should help you choose the best possible spot. 

But you’ll need to take measurements outside of the building to find an area with enough space and no hazards like branches or hanging wires.

5. Find The Best Provider.

We suggest reaching out to at least two or three different commercial garbage collection service companies to compare prices and service features.

That’s when you can make sure you’re getting the most cost-effective trash pickup solution for your organization.

Here are a few good rules of thumb to follow during this process:

• Compare dumpster prices
• Ask about the flexibility of their service
• See if you’ll have dedicated account management
• Look for a national provider
• Read reviews
• Consider long-term contracts to save money
• Don’t sign until you read the contract

6. Set Up A Schedule.

Work with your new waste provider to identify the number of pickups you need and optimal days for these pickups per week. 

This will depend on a few things including how much waste – and what type of waste – you produce in a set amount of time.

It will also depend on your business schedule when you want the company to pick up the dumpster.

7. Explore Recycling Options.

Even if you aren’t required to recycle by your state or municipality, this is a great time to arrange for recycling services. 

The garbage collection company you hire should be able to service both your trash and recycling pickup.

Recycling materials such as plastic, paper, glass, etc. can offer numerous benefits including:

• Money savings: When you recycle waste, you divert materials from your trash. You’ll need fewer pickups and may be able to use a smaller bin, so you’ll reduce your waste removal costs.
• Reducing your business’s carbon footprint: Recycling keeps more trash out of landfills, which means fewer greenhouse gasses entering our atmosphere.
• Boosting your local economy: Recycling can help improve your local economy by creating new jobs. According to IBISWorld, this industry is growing, recycling facilities employ more workers now than they did in 2017, and the average recycling facility employs 15.9 employees.

8. Request A Free Audit.

Some dumpster companies offer free waste audits (also known as waste assessments).

This is where they look at your current service setup and identify ways to help you save money and recycle more materials.

They will evaluate details like:

• The bin sizes you use.
• The percentage of waste you recycle vs. send to the landfill.
• Your pickup schedule and collection frequency.

If you can get a free audit, it’s a great way to see how another provider can better serve you outside of just a quoted price or a comparison of service features.

9. Make Transitioning Providers Smooth.

When switching providers, make sure there won’t be a time you’ll be without a dumpster. 

Ensure they can deliver a new bin to you shortly after your former provider picks up their container. 

Also, ask when and how you’ll be billed and if you can start your new agreement with them right after your contract with your current provider ends.

10. Add Accessories.

Besides renting a dumpster, you can add features to your container for optimal service, such as:

• Casters: Wheels make it easier to move your dumpster in tight areas like alleyways.
• Lock Bars: Prevent outside trash (and raccoons) from ending up in your bin by locking it.
• Drain Plugs: Keep wet waste from leaking out of the dumpster and causing health issues.

11. Build A Dumpster Enclosure.

Whether or not your municipality requires a bin enclosure, there are several benefits to having a dumpster enclosure. 

You’ll stop trash from blowing around your property, keep animals from getting inside it and have more control over who can use your dumpster.

12. Prevent Illegal Dumping.

Besides adding a lock bar to your bin and building a dumpster enclosure, there are other things you can do to stop people from illegally dumping garbage in your dumpster.

Two examples include putting up a warning sign telling people that your bin is for private use only and installing security cameras to monitor the area.

13. Understand Different Fees.

You first need to know what kinds of dumpster rental fees you may face. These are common ones many businesses find themselves having to pay:

• Disposal fees
• Trip charges
• Overage charges
• Overloading fees

14. Make Your Dumpster Accessible The First Day.

In order for your hauler to access and dispose of your waste, the area in front of your dumpster must be clear of any obstructions. 

Make sure that no one parks there and keep the area plowed in the winter so you won’t have to pay trip charges.

If you keep your dumpster inside a locked enclosure, be careful not to lock your hauler out of the area on pickup day.

15. Don’t Overfill Your Dumpster.

Instruct your employees on how to properly load the bin. 

Some containers may have signage on them with these kinds of instructions, but it may be helpful to put up posters outside or near the exit doors as reminders. 

Some dumpster providers may provide signs free of charge.

Don’t allow items to stick up over the top or hang over the sides of your dumpster. 

In addition, keep all your materials contained to ensure you don’t miss out on a pickup.

Moreover, make sure employees only use your dumpster to dispose of your typical commercial trash.

Also, if you’re planning a one-time project that will produce a lot of waste like a renovation or a special event, consider renting a temporary dumpster to handle the excess debris.

16. Don’t Toss Prohibited Items.

Landfills don’t accept certain items because they contain hazardous materials, and if these items are found in your dumpster, you’ll need to pay extra. 

While disposal regulations vary, here are some prohibited items that aren’t allowed in commercial dumpsters:

17. Ask For Waste Reports.

Ask your dumpster provider to monitor your garbage collection on a monthly, quarterly or biannual basis. 

This can help identify opportunities to lower your waste disposal costs. 

It will also confirm if your pickup schedule and frequency match your current waste output.

18. Adjust The Size & Frequency As Needed.

While it’s easy to just set up a contract and forget about your trash, there are basic things you can do to save money. 

You also may need to make adjustments based on the growth of your business.

Don’t miss out on these opportunities. 

Request free waste audits or waste reports from your trash collection company to make sure the service you’re getting is best for your business.

To Conclude.

Garbage collection services can be costly and non-efficient if you don’t find what you’re looking for.

So it’s always good to do some research and compare different companies to see which ones will benefit you the most.

The cost, size, place, and so much more depend on who you’re working with and what you request from them.

Credit: https://www.dumpsters.com/blog/commercial-waste-disposal-tips

The post 18 Tips For Garbage Collection appeared first on B&L Disposal.

But what exactly is a dumpster enclosure?

A dumpster enclosure is a fenced-in area that allows you to hide your temporary or commercial container from view. 

This is so you can keep your property looking clean and presentable. 

It will also prevent trash from being picked up by the wind, animals from getting into your bin, and strangers from illegally dumping in your container. 

All of these things could cause you to rack up extra fees.

Although building one is a bit costly, your bins are better off hidden from your customers. 

This is because many people see them as their own personal dumping ground to take out their own trash on business property.

Or, animals like raccoons and coyotes can find your trash appetizing which can cause hazardous problems for your business. 

Not to worry, building a dumpster enclosure can help with these problems, and it isn’t difficult. 

We’re here to show you how.

Steps To Build An Enclosure.

When you’re ready to build a dumpster enclosure, it helps if you go in with a plan. 

Use these steps to choose the right material for your enclosure. 

Then always make sure you have enough space and successfully build your fence.

The last thing you want to do is go into the project not feeling confident or ready. 

Here are some considerations to keep in mind as you prepare to build your enclosure and pick a design.

1. Choosing A Material.

Dumpster enclosures can be made out of several different materials. 

The chart below shows some pros and cons of each to help you choose.

Some cities require enclosures to be made out of a specific material. 

Check the regulations in your city or state by finding your local Building Department’s website or giving them a call.

But what will the cost be for your enclosure?

Well, The cost of your dumpster enclosure will depend on the following factors:

• The material you choose to use for your enclosure.
• Whether there’s an existing concrete foundation on the property for the dumpster to sit on.
• The number of dumpsters on your property.
• Whether you plan to build the enclosure yourself or hire a pro.

So picking the materials for your project is the first step to creating your own dumpster enclosure.

2. Determining Dimensions.

The dimensions of your enclosure need to account for the size of the dumpster. 

Not only that, but it needs to leave enough room for employees to use your bin and for a garbage truck to pick it up. 

Dumpster enclosures can be built with a variety of dimensions, but use the table below as a general starting point.

Some cities require their own dimensions for dumpster enclosures. 

Check with your local Building Department to find out if any rules apply in your area.

However, here are the minimum dimensions that your enclosure should be:

Deciding the dimensions for any project is important if you want the results that you’re expecting.

3. Installation Method.

It’s tempting to just put up your enclosure yourself, but it may end up costing more in the long run if you make mistakes. 

Some types of dumpster enclosures are better candidates for DIY installation than others.

If you’re building with simpler materials such as wood or vinyl, doing it yourself may be the best choice for you.

But, if you’re using more expensive materials, you might want to consider hiring a pro that can do the work for you.

That way, there will be less mistakes made if something were to go wrong in the building process.

Plus you’ll want to build your dumpster enclosure on a parking lot or other concrete surface. 

Keep in mind that if you choose DIY installation you’ll need to rent a hammer drill to create post holes. 

Whatever surface you’re building your fence on, you’ll need to mix and pour concrete to make the posts sturdy. 

If you’re not up for either of those tasks, choose pro installation no matter what type of enclosure you’re building. 

It’s much more cost-effective to get it done right than to build a flimsy fence that can’t stand repeated use.

4. Post Holes.

Post holes are an important part of the enclosure to make sure that the gates stay shut when you’re done taking out the garbage.

Here are the steps to making a post hole yourself:

1. Use a string line to mark the perimeter of your fence.
2. Determine where the posts will go. Mark where the center of each post will sit.
3. Measure the width of your fence posts. Multiply that number by 3. This gives you the diameter needed for your post holes. 
4. Draw a circle with the proper diameter around each of the center-post marks.
5. Drill holes about one inch apart around the perimeter of each circle using a hammer drill. Then drill several holes within the circle. This’ll prevent cracks from forming in the surrounding concrete during the next step.
6. Switch to a chisel drill bit. This turns your hammer drill into a small-scale jackhammer to begin breaking up the concrete within the circle.
7. Once all the concrete has been broken up and removed, use a post hole digger to create a hole 24 inches deep.
8. Add a few inches of gravel to the hole for drainage.
9. Repeat steps 6-8 for each post.

Follow these steps if you’re looking to put in your own post holes for your enclosure.

Also, make sure to contact your local digging company to make sure you’re not in danger of hitting utility lines. 

This protects you from potential injury and extremely costly damages.

5. Final Tips.

Here are some final tips for you when you’re putting in your dumpster enclosure:

• Make sure to get a permit from your city to be able to build a dumpster enclosure in the first place.

• Place your dumpster at least 50 feet from your building. If space allows, go for at least 100 feet from the closest entrance. Keep in mind that this may affect the dimension requirements for your enclosure.

• For temporary dumpsters, It’s a good idea to place a locked, temporary fence around a roll off dumpster or your job site. This is so you can work through a construction project or home remodel to keep unwanted guests from using your container.

To Conclude.

A good dumpster enclosure is necessary to keep your dumpsters safe and clean from unwanted garbage in your bins.

An enclosure is good to keep people from dumping illegally, animals getting into your garbage, and makes dumping the garbage easier for garbage trucks.

So, if you’re looking for a reason to have a dumpster enclosure on your property, these are the reasons why.

Credit: https://www.dumpsters.com/blog/building-a-commercial-dumpster-enclosure#choose-a-material

The post Dumpster Enclosure: 5 Steps To Building One appeared first on B&L Disposal.

The first garbage trucks would have been simple carts that were pushed around by humans to collect unwanted waste. 

As societies grew, the need for waste removal grew with it, and pretty soon the carts became larger and were drawn by horses instead of people.

With the introduction of the car at the turn of the 20th century, garbage trucks became more mechanized. 

However, they were still primitive by today’s standards and were no more than pick up trucks with trash being thrown onto the back of the truck. 

The covered body trash compactor made its first appearance in the 1930’s and a revolution in waste collection was underway. 

Having an enclosed body made it so trash would not fly all over the place and the stench of the garbage would not fill the streets. 

Over the subsequent years garbage trucks have evolved to become the efficient pieces of machinery we have today.

In the United States, there are four types of garbage trucks that we see on our roads everyday and each one serves a very particular purpose.

Front Loader Garbage Trucks.

Front loader garbage trucks are used for servicing commercial and industrial businesses by using dumpsters to collect waste materials. 

They require massive containers to collect all the garbage from your properties.

These types of trucks are equipped with hydraulically controlled forks on the front of the vehicle which are used by the operator. 

The forks are used to lift and dump the contents of the dumpster containers into the vehicle’s hopper. 

From sludge to waste from factories, the design of these trucks make it possible to accommodate all types of garbage inside.

Then it’s compacted by a hydraulically actuated packer into the rear of the body. 

Most front loaders in the United States will hold up to 40 cubic yards of trash and are capable of lifting containers weighing 8,000 lbs. 

The addition of a Curotto Can system also allows the front loader to also be used as an automated side loader enabling the operator to dump residential carts.

This is just one of the many dump trucks that you see wherever you go in our society.

Side Loader Garbage Trucks.

Side loader garbage trucks are used primarily for household waste collection.

There are two variants available in this truck: one with automatic robotic arms that will collect the garbage and second, manually. 

The automated side loaders are more expensive, and they require only one operator. 

They are loaded from the side with the assistance of an automatic robotic arm that is controlled from inside the cab of the truck. 

Lift assist trucks are referred to as automated side loaders (ASL), which only require one operator and can service up to 1,500 homes a day. 

This has distinct advantages for efficiency as well as for reducing on the job injuries caused by repetitive lifting. 

Because of these benefits, the ASL is becoming increasingly more popular in the waste collection industry. 

The manual side loader, as the name implies, is loaded manually from the side by an operator who lifts and dumps the trash into the hopper of the truck. 

These trucks are still a staple in the waste collection industry because of their ability to go into areas where an automated truck just can’t.

They can also be outfitted with cart tippers to make them “semi-automated”.

The size of the truck plays a role in deciding the quantity of the waste materials it can carry. 

Most of the standard trucks can hold about 30,000 lbs of compacted garbage every day and hold up to 28 cubic yards of garbage. 

Some of these trucks are available at a great price if you buy them second-hand. 

The manual side loaders will cost less compared to the automated side loaders.

Rear Loader Garbage Trucks.

Rear loader garbage trucks can be used for both residential and commercial trash collection.

This makes them one of the most versatile and popular garbage collection vehicles available. 

Rear loaders have a large opening at the rear of the truck where the operator can throw bags of garbage or empty the contents of containers. 

Many residential clients keep their garbage inside bags. 

No matter what their size is, you can collect plenty of them inside the truck in one day.

Like carrying, these trucks also help in dumping the trash too, thanks to their huge rear opening.

The addition of attachments to the body can assist the operator with dumping heavy containers without having to lift the waste manually.

This can be things such as a cart tipper, kick bar, winch, or a reeving cylinder.

Most rear loader garbage trucks can take trash from as many as 800 to 850 homes. 

They have the capacity from 6 to 35 cubic yards and capable of carrying up to 18 tons.

The rear loader garbage truck gets the job done whether big or small.

Roll-Off Trucks.

Roll off trucks are most commonly used for large scale commercial waste removal. 

Some examples are for construction and demolition sites or for handling huge recycling materials such as steel and cardboard. 

These trucks carry large roll off containers which can be dropped off at a given location.

Then they’re picked up and taken to either a landfill or recycling center once the container has been loaded. 

This set up makes the roll off truck ideal for efficiently handling large jobs without leaving the truck idle for long periods of time. 

A roll off garbage truck can carry approximately 20,000 lbs, which is equal to 10 tons. 

Its sturdy construction makes sure the truck doesn’t get damaged during the pickup and drop off.

Roll offs come in a variety of hoist configurations including reeving cylinder, winch, and hook-lift. 

Each of these have their own advantages depending on the situation.

To Conclude.

Garbage trucks are truly engineering marvels that make our lives better, but they’re often overlooked.

Most people don’t value the engineering of garbage trucks. 

If you want to grow in your garbage removal business, make sure you choose one of these trucks for higher efficiency of the quantity of the trash they can carry. 

So the next time you take your trash out, remember all of the innovation and thought that has gone into making the garbage truck that comes to your street every week.

The post Types Of Garbage Trucks appeared first on B&L Disposal.

Whenever you need a service, you always want to make sure what you ordered is what you’re going to get.

With waste collection services, It’s good to know the size, weight, price, and much more for the dumpster you are looking for.

Our garbage can range in very different sizes and shapes that sometimes makes it harder to know what type of dumpster we need to do the job. 

So which dumpster is best for you? Is it a large roll-off that can take everything in your house or a smaller dumpster bin that’s more cost effective?

Let’s find out, shall we?

The Best Size.

Dumpsters are available in several sizes and styles. 

You can rent a roll-off dumpster in 10 to 40 cubic yards, which are the most common sizes offered by a dumpster rental. 

If you consider the size, a roll-off can hold more than your regular dumpster. 

However, they take up a lot of space. So it’s good to make sure there’s plenty of space to fit a roll-off without causing blocked roads or stopping traffic.

10 – 20 yd roll-offs are best used for small renovations, junk removal, or landscaping projects.

Meanwhile, 30 – 40 yd ones are best used for larger construction projects and are more likely used by construction companies.

If a roll-off is too big for your liking, then perhaps a commercial dumpster is more up your alley.

These dumpsters are smaller, so they are great for smaller cleanup projects. 

They can range anywhere from 2 yds to 8 yds and are meant more for weekly pickups rather than all in one day or for construction projects.

This smaller dumpster is best used for smaller projects as well and can only take on so many materials that will fit in the container.

So it’s always best to consider the size of the dumpster first to know if what you’re throwing away can make it into the dumpster.

The Weight Amount.

Between a roll-off dumpster vs. commercial dumpster, there is a big difference in their weight limits. 

With roll-offs, the limit depends on the size you pick. A 10-yard dumpster can fit up to 10 cubic yards of debris with a maximum weight of 2,000 pounds or one ton.

20 – 40 yd dumpsters will generally take more than that, about 10 tons or 20,000 pounds (although other companies can have different posted limits).

With that said, commercial dumpsters have similar limits just like roll-offs.

https://www.dumpsters.com/sizes/dumpster-sizes

A 2-yard dumpster has a 400 pound weight limit and for every two yards in length, the dumpster adds an additional 400 pounds in weight limit.

The weight of the dumpster you order or rent should be enough to take all of the things that you would want to throw away.

If this isn’t the case however, companies can charge a “Overweight Fee” for garbage that exceeds the weight limits above.

Also, companies can do different weight limits depending on how much they want to take for their customers.

It all seems like a lot, but as long as you know how much you’re throwing away, this should be an easy process.

What’s The Cost?

Between these two services, The cost does vary depending on which one you pick and what company you’re working with.

It also depends on many factors like location, delivery, fuel, the weight of the trash, hidden fees, and much more.

However, many companies will charge around $178 per month, but it mostly depends on the factors above to know the exact pricing.

https://www.dumpsters.com/pricing/commercial-dumpster-prices

This is a great guideline to know how much you’ll be investing when needing a commercial dumpster.

Roll-offs however, you pay a full price to rent the dumpster for a little while to take away huge loads of garbage at once.

The average cost of a dumpster rental nationwide is $485 with typical prices ranging between $244 to $928. 

Keep in mind that exact rates vary based on several factors, including location, dumpster size and debris type.

https://www.dumpsters.com/pricing/roll-off-dumpster-prices

What’s Allowed In The Dumpster?

Companies will usually highlight what’s allowed in their dumpsters but the common items to avoid putting in dumpsters are:

• Gas Tanks
• Tires
• Batteries
• Motor Oils
• Paint
• Refrigerators
• Rocks & Dirt
• Concrete
• Air Conditioners
• Electronics

All of these items are usually not allowed by waste companies.

This is because they can cause problems for the environment and also damage their dumpsters or equipment.

But, there is also a difference of what you can throw away between a commercial dumpster and a roll-off.

With a commercial dumpster, there are certain restrictions as to what you can put in the smaller dumpster, such as limited:

• Construction materials
• Yard waste
• Furniture

However, this can be great if you’re not throwing out that much trash.

As said earlier, this can be a much cheaper option if you’re just looking to clean out the house or a better long-term option when you’re running a business.

Roll-offs can take much more of the garbage that’s needed to be thrown away.

However, roll-offs are usually a one time rental to take out all of the huge debris away from the property.

Whether it’s for construction projects or really large clean outs, roll-offs are a great choice.

So the best choice can ultimately come down to are you going to need a dumpster often for a long period of time, or one to take everything at once?

Time And Date.

Another major difference between the two is when you’re using the dumpsters for your project or business.

With commercial dumpsters, you get to rent the dumpster for as long as you want, as long as you’re paying the usual monthly fee. 

And these dumpsters are usually used for commercial businesses and small businesses that need the trash taken out every week for them.

Roll-offs though are different with when you rent them and how you use them.

Although the waste company decides how long rental periods are, many companies will give you between 3 – 5 days to use the roll-off given to you.

Although a lot of companies are pretty flexible for how long you can have the dumpster.

Many companies will also allow you to extend the rental period, but it can come at the cost of paying every day that you continue using it.

So it’s a good idea to know how much you’re throwing away and how long it will take before you tell the company that you can do it within a day or two.

To Conclude.

Which one is for you, roll-offs or commercial dumpsters?

Well, it ultimately depends more on do you need a quick, big service for a short amount of time, or a long-term smaller service that’s more cost effective?

Usually it’s commercial businesses or small business owners that need a commercial dumpster for their business.

Meanwhile, roll-offs are needed for big home projects or construction projects in general.

So when you’re needing someone to take out the trash for you or your business, think about these factors to make the best decision for yourself.

Credit: https://www.dumpsters.com/

The post Roll-Offs or Commercial Dumpsters: Which One’s For You? appeared first on B&L Disposal.

Meanwhile, it breaks down, rots, and leaks chemicals into the soil it’s sitting on and it builds up.

The average American produces more than 4 pounds of trash per day.

Where are the landfills in our state and all the others? 

Are they open or closed? What kind of trash do they accept? Does our trash stay in our own states, or does it get trucked to somewhere else – and why? 

All told, trash disposal is a much more complicated process than one might think.

Here is some interesting info we found out:

• The amount of trash going into the country’s landfills is at its lowest level since 1960.

• Food waste, plastics, and paper products make up more than half the garbage in U.S. landfills.

• Michigan is the state with the most trash per capita, with Indiana and Illinois ranking second and third.

• Indiana’s landfills are growing the fastest in the nation. 

California has more landfills than any other state in the nation – more than twice as many, in fact, as every other state except Texas.

The things we throw away (and how we do it) can tell us so much about ourselves as a people. 

What we keep, what we throw out, how much thought we give to the process, whether – and how – we can try to make it better.

So let’s get our hands dirty by digging into more facts about the nation’s trash.

Where Does The Trash Go?

A lot of the trash we produce goes into landfill waste. 

But the good news is that the annual amount of trash deposited in landfills has actually fallen through the years. 

Even though the total amount of waste we produce has increased over the past three generations, the amount of trash going into landfills today is at its lowest level since 1960. 

America is currently landfilling 2.3 pounds of waste per person daily, whereas in 1960, the rate was 2.5 pounds per person daily.

Recycling, burning, and composting are helping restrict landfill growth, especially with curbside programs and cash-back initiatives. 

In California, for instance, consumers pay an extra 5 – 10 cents for a drink. 

Depending on the size of each beverage container they purchase, they get a refund when they drop off the plastic at recycling centers. 

Californians have recycled more than 300 billion aluminum, glass, and plastic containers since the program started in 1987. 

And the Golden State isn’t alone: A total of 1.2 billion aluminum cans were collected and recycled across the United States in 1972, a figure which rose to 62 billion cans recycled by 1995.

However, there are still no nationwide recycling requirements, and only 22 U.S. states have mandatory recycling laws. So the problem isn’t solved – far from it.

Who Has The Most Trash?

Decades worth of trash is buried in landfills across the country, and some of it has been shipped from one state to another. 

Learning this strange fact led us to wonder: Which states contain the most trash in landfills per capita?

Upper Midwestern and eastern industrial states especially have racked up a lot of trash over the years. 

Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Ohio take the top five spots on the trash-per-capita list. 

More sparsely populated states such as Wyoming, Idaho, Maine, Vermont, and North and South Dakota, all rank with the least landfill trash per resident.

Michigan has the most accumulated waste per person, with a staggering 62.4 tons of buried waste for every person in the state. 

Indiana and Illinois rank second and third, with 56.1 and 52.4 tons of trash per capita, respectively.

Largely because it accepts considerably less trash by volume than most other states, Connecticut hosts the least buried trash per person, with only 8.7 tons per resident. 

Massachusetts (16.2 tons) and Wyoming (16.6 tons) rank second and third least landfilled, respectively.

How Many Landfills Are There?

How many landfills are there across the United States? 

There are currently 2,622 landfills in existence; of those, 1,304 are open and operating.

California, Texas, and Kansas have the most operating landfills, rankings which partially correspond with the states’ relative size and populations.

California, with 118 working landfills, has more than twice as many as any other state, except for second-ranked Texas. 

The Golden State also has by far the most closed landfills, 176 in total.

Significantly smaller states Connecticut, Vermont, and Rhode Island have the fewest operating landfills. 

Almost all of Connecticut’s landfills have been closed.

Who Owns Our Landfills?

Although local governments still own most of the country’s landfills (1,669 out of 2,622), about one-third of landfills today are privately owned (860 out of 2,622). 

Others are operated as public/private partnerships.

Michigan leads the nation with the greatest percentage of privatized landfills (81.7%), followed by Illinois (79.1%) and Pennsylvania (76.8%). 

Wyoming, South Dakota, and Delaware do not house any private landfills. 

New Hampshire, Hawaii, and Utah have the lowest percentages of private landfills in the country. 

Regardless of ownership type, all landfills in the U.S. are monitored by the Environmental Protection Agency.

According to one estimate, private industry controlled 85-90% of permitted landfill capacity as of 2018, a sharp rise from 36% in 1998, and just 17% in 1984. 

Private companies have better access to private funding and can benefit from economies of scale.

And they have plenty of incentive to get involved. 

Private landfills are big business: Five publicly traded companies ran 542 active landfills in North America as of March 2019. 

The biggest of the firms, Waste Management, ran 247 solid-waste landfills and five more for hazardous waste, employing 43,700 workers.

To Conclude.

The average American produces more than 4 pounds of trash per day.

The Environmental Protection Agency has been monitoring landfill waste and reporting data about the national waste stream for more than 30 years. 

All landfills, whether they are publicly or privately owned, are monitored as part of an effort to protect groundwater and track heat-trapping methane emissions.

In conclusion, landfill waste is an important part of our society, but the question is, what can we do to minimize the effects of our garbage that we throw away every day?

Credit: American Wasteland: Which States Produce the Most Trash?

The post Landfill Waste: How, Where, & Why? appeared first on B&L Disposal.

The reason for this is because we want to keep the trash out of our sight when we go to work or eat at a fancy restaurant.

However, many things that are thrown away normally actually should not be put in a dumpster.

Some reasons we don’t throw away certain items is because:

• The item can be hazardous to either the environment or to children, pets, and wildlife.

• The trash could be too heavy which could cause damage to the dumpster or possibly harm others.

• The trash could be filled with liquid whether it’s intentional or accidental

But many of us don’t really know what exactly is allowed in a dumpster when wanting to throw away something.

Let’s find out what you’re not allowed to dispose of in your common dumpster.

1. Refrigerators

Refrigerators typically cannot be put in a dumpster because the refrigerant they contain is toxic.

The reason they are toxic is because they contain hazardous materials and liquids such as freon.

The refrigerant must be completely removed before disposing of it.

Freon-containing appliances can be removed by hiring a professional, such as an appliance repair specialist or HVAC certified pro.

You can usually dispose of refrigerators through your local sanitation department’s bulk debris pickup program.

In some areas, you may be able to throw away your refrigerator using a dumpster if it has been properly drained by an HVAC professional.

However, if you are simply throwing out one refrigerator, it may be easier to call an appliance retailer to handle it.

Some will provide free waste disposal with the purchase of a new appliance.

2. Tires

You cannot throw tires in a dumpster, as they can damage the landfill structures and equipment.

Whole tires are capable of “floating” to the top of a landfill as methane gas builds up inside the tire’s inner wall.

Most auto parts stores and waste departments will accept old tires to recycle them into asphalt and other industrial applications.

3. Paint Cans

Paint cans are prohibited because they can contain lead or mercury, especially if they were manufactured prior to the 1990s.

Prohibited paints include paint thinners, lacquers and wood stains.

However, in most municipalities, you can dispose of dry latex paint as long as it’s wrapped in a plastic bag.

Empty paint cans are also usually accepted.

4. Car Batteries

Car batteries, as well as lithium batteries, cannot be put in a dumpster because they can leak chemicals that are harmful to the environment.

You can take old car batteries to a local recycler, such as an auto shop.

Lithium batteries, like those found in laptops, can be recycled at most electronics stores.

General-purpose alkaline batteries, such as AA’s, AAA’s and D’s, are allowed in a dumpster.

5. Hazardous Materials

Hazardous materials and liquids cannot go in a dumpster.

Examples of hazardous waste include asbestos, pesticides, contaminated soils or absorbents, motor oil, other automotive fluids and medical waste.

Always make sure to follow the proper procedures in your location and find a hazardous waste collection center near you to handle the waste disposal responsibly.

6. Contaminated Soils

Contaminated soils can leach toxic chemicals into nearby ground or surface waters.

These materials can be taken up by plants and animals, contaminate human drinking water supply, or contaminate the indoor air in overlying buildings.

Contaminated soils and absorbents that are mixed with hazardous substances can’t be disposed through normal waste haulers.

They must either be treated or contained following federal Superfund guidelines.

7. Ink And Resins

Ink, which is used in pens and printers, can damage equipment and stain the interior of dumpsters.

These are best disposed of through recycling centers or retailers with drop-off locations.

Ink printer cartridges and their ink contain harmful chemicals, most of which are bad for the environment.

Ink cartridges are made from oil.

The oil present in the ink helps contribute to water and soil pollution when spent ink cartridges are disposed of in the trash and end up in the landfill.

8. Oils, Fuel & Propane Tanks

Throwing away propane tanks, fuels, oils and other flammable materials in a dumpster is a serious safety hazard.

These substances are highly combustible, and disposing of them improperly is illegal in most areas.

Since propane tanks contain flammable gas, any residual gas could potentially start a fire at the landfill.

Due to this risk, most landfills and recycling centers won’t even accept propane tanks.

You should contact a propane company, your local fire department or a hazardous material collection center for further waste disposal information.

9. Asbestos

The most important thing to know about handling and disposing of asbestos is that you shouldn’t do it yourself.

Asbestos is a flame retardant found in older homes and various industrial products.

It is considered to be a carcinogen in most U.S. states, which has resulted in landfill bans.

A carcinogen is an agent with the capacity to cause cancer in humans.

If you know your home contains asbestos, you should contact a licensed contractor to ensure safe waste removal and disposal.

10. Railroad Ties

Since many railroad ties are treated with harmful wood preservatives, they aren’t allowed in dumpsters.

Most railroad ties are made of creosote-treated wood to ward off fungal invaders that degrade wood.

Creosote is a chemical that can be harmful to human health and the environment.

Hence, extra care must be taken when disposing railroad ties.

However, most landfills will take intact railroad ties.

They can also be recycled and reused by organizations such as Habitat for Humanity. Local businesses are also looking for landscaping supplies and parking lot bumpers.

Conclusion

Most of the time, we don’t take into account the things we throw away on a daily basis.

This is usually because most of the waste we throw away is generally not that toxic to people and it doesn’t usually stain dumpsters.

However, it’s always good to take into consideration what items we throw away, as listed above.

Just because something doesn’t seem to be toxic does not mean it can affect things in many different ways.

So, it’s always important to be aware of what we throw into our garbage cans so we can have less toxic landfills in the future.

The post Top 10 Common Waste Disposal That Isn’t Allowed appeared first on B&L Disposal.

You always see a dumpster at any commercial business or construction site anywhere you go. And you always see them filled with different types of debris like plastics, food waste, etc.

These dumpsters also come in different sizes. Whether it’s a regular commercial dumpster at your local store or a huge roll-off to take care of construction waste or materials. 

But why do these companies pick these dumpsters? Because they make decisions that give the most efficient profit in the long run. 

Now, here are 10 tips to make the best decision for the type of dumpster you need for your business.

1. Plan Ahead

Dumpster companies will usually have a limited amount of dumpsters to offer, especially local companies. 

That’s why it’s important to know the company you’re working with to know when you are getting your dumpster.

Many dumpster rental companies offer different sizes, types, prices, and time periods to rent your dumpster. 

It’s always important to know what you’re getting into when negotiating with service companies. 

One good tip is to call in advance. Whether this is a week or a month, it’s good to call and know ahead of time the service you will be getting. 

This also allows time for the company to get ready to deliver to you when you need the dumpster.

2. Compare Prices

The cost of your dumpster rental is one important factor to make the best decision for your service. 

Costs can vary depending on what garbage collection service you choose from. 

You can call or search up multiple companies in your area to compare their prices and make the best decision. 

By doing this, you could be saving around $50 to $100 on costs for your dumpster.

However, another factor that many people don’t talk about is the flat rate. 

A flat rate allows you to know exactly how much you are spending, combining fees and taxes all into one upfront payment.

Many companies put you up with an upfront price when you call, but then give you hidden fees for delivery, fuel, and many other charges until your dumpster rental is finally complete.

So it’s good to know the cost of which service you choose and to make more efficient decisions in the future.

3. Work with a Professional

Renting a dumpster is one of many important decisions you have to make in your commercial business. 

That’s why it’s important to know who you’re working with to determine if you’ll get trustworthy service. 

Finding a reliable dumpster business is important so you can know who they are and what they do for their business. 

A few key indicators that you can look for are:

• How old is the business: The life of a business determines how trustworthy they are. The older the company, the more reliable.

• How many people work there: The number of people that work at the business usually shows how local the business is. The more workers they have, the more widespread they usually are, whether they are statewide or countrywide.

• What reviews they’re receiving: Positive reviews can make the business more likely to be picked by customers. In fact, the more reviews that a company has, the higher they will be in google’s searches which makes them a better pick. However, it’s also good to read some of the bad reviews. This is so you can see if they had any problems with the company that are also common problems at your business.

These are just a few ways to see how reliable a garbage business is for you and your company. 

4. Dumpster Size & Style

It’s always good to know what type of dumpster you are getting before it arrives. 

So before renting a dumpster, check and see if it’s the ideal size and style you want it to be. Some choices you have are:

• Top Loading Dumpsters
• Rear Loading Containers
• Roll Off Dumpsters
• Compactors

Many of these choices have vastly different sizes like top loading dumpsters varying from 10 yards to 30 yards. 

Simply, you should pick the ideal dimensions for the size of how much you’re throwing away at your business or project.

5. Location & Space

When handling dumpster rental, it’s best to plan ahead where you want to have your dumpster for your business. 

Deciding where you have it can determine the maximum usability for your garbage company. 

But a question to ask is; Where should I place my dumpster? 

Here are a few tips about where you should place your dumpster:

• Placed on a level site.
• Remove debris around your dumpster.
• Should NOT be placed on traffic routes for vehicles, equipment and personnel.
• Place your dumpster near drainage.
• Don’t place near overhanging items like tree branches or power lines.

These are just some things to consider when you’re putting your dumpster down for the garbage collection service to collect. 

It’s definitely not good for anything to go wrong just for the placement of your dumpster.

6. Rental Period

Garbage companies also have a determined rental period for their dumpsters. 

Whether this is paying every month or year, the cost is determined by the length of time you use your dumpster and by many other factors like:

• Location
• Size
• Weight
• Type of Garbage

All of these factors can determine how much you’re getting out of the dumpster you choose from. 

So it’s always good to know what you’re getting into when you invest into a garbage company of your choice.

7. Weight Limits

The amount of garbage you put into a dumpster bin can also affect how much you are charging. 

Although the dumpster usually will say how many tonnes you can put in the bin, there’s always a chance that you could put in too much. 

If the dumpster is overfilled or overflowing with garbage, the company will usually give an additional fee for all the extra garbage.

This can lead to a worse relationship between you and the company. 

So it’s always best to know, as said before, what dumpster you need for the best job possible.

8. Dumpster Loading

Not only does the amount of garbage in the dumpster matter, but also what you put in is important. 

Many items are allowed to be thrown away in your common garbage bin, but where do you cross the line? 

Here are a couple things that are allowed for you to throw away:

• Household Items
• Wooden Furniture
• Brick, Asphalt, and Concrete
• Construction Debris
• Lumber
• Storm Debris
• Shingles

While some items in these categories can be considered to be not allowed, most should be alright to throw away. 

But, it’s always best to contact your dumpster rental company and talk about what is allowed in the garbage bin they provide.

However, there are some items that are in question of whether they can be thrown away or not. Here are some examples:

• Upholstered Furniture (Couches and Recliners)
• Yard Waste
• Appliances
• Electronics
• Dirt
• Mattresses and Box Springs
• Event Waste
• Aerosol Cans

There are many items that are questionable whether or not they can be trashed. 

As stated before, contact your local garbage company and discuss the details of what’s allowed in their dumpster.

9. Prohibited Items

Now that we’ve gone over what items are allowed or sometimes allowed in the bin, what trash isn’t allowed in dumpsters? 

Waste that isn’t allowed in dumpsters should usually be disposed of in some special disposal. 

The reason this is the case is because this can cause human and environmental damage if it’s left out in the open.

Plus, if any of these materials listed below is found in your dumpster, you can be charged a contamination fee.

Some of the materials that cannot be thrown away normally are:

• Refrigerators
• Hot Water Tanks
• Tires
• Paint Cans and Lacquers
• Adhesives
• Car Batteries
• Medical Infectious Waste
• Hazardous Materials
• Contaminated Soils and Absorbents
• Household Cleaners
• Ink and Resins
• Oils, Fuels, and Propane Tanks
• Railroad Ties
• Asbestos
• Industrial Drums

These are just many examples of what you shouldn’t be putting in your dumpster. 

Garbage companies can charge you fees for items like these when they’re thrown away. 

10. Negotiate 

Now with all of these recommendations, you can use this info to communicate with your local dumpster rental company. 

Some of the main points you can use in a conversation are:

• Type of Dumpster
• Size of Dumpster
• Location
• Amount of Space
• Rental Period
• Weight Limit
• What Items are Disposed
• Garbage that is NOT allowed

Bringing up these points can help you make a better decision with the company you’re talking with. 

The company should also give the most recommended dumpster for you to rent, so that should also help you make a good decision.

To Conclude

Dumpster rental is an important process when it comes to what you throw away at your company. 

There are many factors that are put into consideration when you’re finding the garbage bin that fits your business needs.

Renting a dumpster also involves the garbage companies reputation that they have. 

So it’s always important to do your research and know where to make the best decision for your business.

The post 10 Important Tips for Dumpster Rental appeared first on B&L Disposal.

The trash bags pile up over the day as you throw out plastic bags, soda cans, food, etc. 

When it has filled up to the brim, you then take it out to the garbage can. Then when that has piled to the top, you take it out to the street. 

Finally every week, the garbage truck drives by, takes away the trash, and takes it to the dump, right? 

Well it’s a bit more complicated than you might think.

Where does it go?

Americans generate about four pounds of garbage per day. That translates into 210 million tons per year for the population of the U.S. 

But where exactly does all the garbage go after it’s taken away every week? 

It’s just thrown out to the dump, right? 

Well, not quite.

Transfer Stations

The garbage is actually taken to a transfer station. 

A transfer station is an industrial facility where solid waste is sent to be staged before heading to its final destination, such as a landfill or waste-to-energy facility. 

Transfer stations help keep solid waste moving, helping to maintain clean and sanitary conditions. This will help keep things clean like homes, businesses, the community, and the local environment. 

The most significant benefits of solid waste transfer stations for members often include:

• Increased fuel savings
• Reduced air pollution
• Minimized traffic congestion
• Convenient drop-off locations open to the public
• Improved safety at landfills
• Encourages adequate screening of items before garbage disposal
• Reduced amounts of solid waste materials on commercial sites

Transfer stations are really useful for organizing the trash we throw away, but where does the garbage go after this? 

Well, the garbage can go to four different places depending on the contents of the trash, which are:

• Landfills
• Waste-to-energy plants
• Recycling centers
• Composting

Let’s explore more in-depth about these four areas.

Landfills

A landfill site, also known as a dump, garbage dump, or dumping ground, is a site for the disposal of waste. 

Landfills are the oldest and most common form of garbage disposal.

Although the systematic burial of the waste with daily, intermediate and final covers only began in the 1940s. 

But there is way more to a landfill than just a place where garbage goes. 

There are actually many types of landfills, such as:

• Municipal Solid Waste Landfills (MSWLFs) – Specifically designed to receive household waste, as well as other types of non hazardous wastes.
  • Bioreactor Landfills – A type of MSWLF that operates to rapidly transform and degrade organic waste.
• Industrial Waste Landfills – Designed to collect commercial and institutional waste. This is often a significant portion of solid waste, even in small cities and suburbs.
  • Construction and Demolition Debris Landfills – A type of industrial waste landfill designed exclusively for construction and demolition materials. This consists of the debris created during the construction, renovation and demolition of buildings, roads and bridges. C&D materials often contain heavy materials, such as concrete, wood, metals, glass and salvaged building parts.
  • Coal Combustion Residual Landfills – An industrial waste landfill used to manage and dispose of coal combustion residuals (CCRs or coal ash).

• Hazardous Waste Landfills – Facilities used specifically for the garbage disposal of hazardous waste. These landfills are not used for the disposal of solid waste.

These are all the many different types of garbage disposal that goes on in these different landfills. 

Each of these landfills continue to grow as more people throw away trash in our everyday lives. But where else does our garbage go?

Waste-To-Energy Plants

These plants are a garbage disposal system that turns the trash we throw away into electrical energy using steam in a boiler. 

Many of these plants can reduce 2,000 pounds of garbage to ash weighing only about 300 to 600 pounds. This can reduce the volume of waste by about 87%. 

The most common type used in the U.S. is the mass-burn system. This is where the trash is burned in a large incinerator to produce electricity. 

The process of generating electricity in a mass-burn waste-to-energy plant has seven stages:

1. Waste is dumped from garbage trucks into a large pit.
2. A giant claw from a crane grabs the waste and dumps it into a combustion chamber.
3. The waste is then burned, which will release heat.
4. The heat turns water into steam in a boiler.
5. The high-pressure steam turns the blades of a turbine generator to produce electricity.
6. An air pollution control system removes pollutants from the combustion gas before it is released through a smoke stack.
7. Finally, ash is collected from the boiler and the air pollution control system.

These plants however are more commonly used in European countries and Japan. This is due to there being less area for them to have landfills. 

Waste-to-energy plants are a great and helpful way to use the trash we throw away as a resource for the energy we use each day.

Recycling Centers

These centers are used to put any recycled materials into an organized building and are actually put back in the marketplace for customers to purchase them again. 

Surprisingly, many recycling centers don’t take certain plastics such as:

• Greasy pizza boxes—if the box isn’t greasy it can be recycled. Otherwise, you can just recycle the side of the box that isn’t greasy.
• Single-use paper cups, because most are lined with a film of polyethylene (you can recycle the plastic lid separately).
• Plastics labeled with the numbers 3, 6, and 7 (though some labeled #7 are compostable).
• Plastic bags should not be put into your recycling bin, however there are some centers in cities that will take your plastic bags, but they still need to be separated.

When the recycled garbage is put in these centers, they’re then organized into different categories like newspapers, plastics, cans, etc. 

Next, they clean the recycled items using cleaning systems in their facilities. 

Finally, manufacturers come to the recycling centers and buy back the recycled goods. 

Then they use them again in their stores to sell back to customers. 

However, this is also just one of the ways to get rid of the trash.

Composting

Composting is simply the process of recycling decaying organic material like food scraps or dry leaves. 

Many of the effects from composting are really good for us and our environment. Here are some reasons why we should compost more:

• Reduces the waste stream – Food scraps and garden waste is 28% of what we usually throw away. Not only is food waste a significant burden on the environment, but processing it makes it more costly.

• Cuts methane emissions from landfills – When compostable waste goes to a landfill, it gets buried under huge amounts of trash. This cuts off a regular supply of oxygen for the decomposers.

• Improves soil health and lessens erosion – Composting can make the soil much more rich which brings more worms or fungi.

• Conserves water – Water is essential for major things such as agriculture which uses 80% of the water in the U.S. By using compost to foster healthier soil, farmers don’t have to use as much water. This way, they can still have higher yields compared to farming with degraded soil.

• Reduces personal food waste – Consumers are responsible for a staggering amount of wasted food. An average American family of four throws out about $150 worth of food per month.

Composting can do a lot from keeping our water safe for our farmers to slowing the effects in our environment.

To Conclude

Garbage disposal is always something that is a part of our culture. The question is how we decide to get rid of our waste. 

The trash service industry has many guidelines in each area of the U.S. This means that the community has to follow to ensure a better environment to live in. 

In conclusion, it’s really good to know what your guidelines are in your community. Knowing this will help you make a more informed decision of how you should throw away your garbage.

The post Garbage Disposal – How the Cycle Works appeared first on B&L Disposal.

Many of us have to take out the trash as our everyday chores or garbage trucks come to take our trash to the dump.

But many of us don’t think about the effects of garbage, where it goes, and what the garbage does to the environment around us.

Here are some facts about our garbage and how it affects the world we live in.

Polluting The Environment.

One of the major effects from garbage is pollution.

Pollution affects the environment by bringing in harmful material such as waste. Not only does pollution affect the environment, it can also increase global temperatures with climate change.

The increase then will lead to more droughts, floods, storms, and shortages. Not only that, but it can bring harm to oceans and the life that lives in or around the ocean.

This can lead to decreasing animal populations and lead animals to extinction.

For example, polar bears at the polar ice caps are becoming extinct from global warming and from the melting of ice caps.

Plus, the melting ice caps are also rising sea levels which will lead to more flooding in the rest of the world.

There are plenty of examples of what is causing global warming around our world.

Things like coal and oil plants putting toxins into our air and cutting down the rainforests will cause more global warming and lead people into worse conditions.

How Does Pollution Affect Us?

Another part of pollution is how it will affect us directly.

The effects of garbage around us can actually lead to respiratory diseases as well as other health effects.

Contaminants can be absorbed into our lungs and other parts of our body. These toxic substances include carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide.

These chemicals can lead people to have asthma, birth defects, cancer, cardiovascular disease, infectious diseases, and much more. 

Also, people with breathing problems such as asthma have to stay inside when the air outside is hazardous.

About 1 in 13 Americans have asthma which is about 25 million people in the U.S. alone.

“Environmental pollution is an incurable disease. It can only be prevented.”

Barry Commoner

In other words, garbage that isn’t thrown away correctly makes our air harder to breathe in.

The Water We Drink.

Another part of how garbage affects our daily lives is polluting the water we use every day.

“Water is the driving force of nature.”

Leonardo da Vinci

Safe and available water is important for public health, whether it’s used for drinking, domestic use, or food production.

Everyone has the right to sufficient, safe, acceptable, accessible, and affordable water for personal use. However, this isn’t the case in many countries around the world.

The World Health Organization states that 785 million people lack even a basic drinking-water service. This includes 144 million people who are dependent on surface water.

They also say that by 2025, half of the world’s population will be living in water-stressed areas.

This takes us back to how pollution is affecting our global temperatures. As temperatures increase, more places don’t attain enough water to give to those who need it.

Garbage in Our Oceans.

How the garbage we produce affects our oceans is depleting the oxygen that lets sea creatures breathe.

Animals such as seals, dolphins, penguins, sharks, and whales could all die from less oxygen.

So far, about 1 million marine animals are killed each year due to plastic debris in the ocean.

Marine animals are continuing to run into plastic that they either eat or get trapped by.

We dump about 17.6 billion pounds of garbage every single year.

By 2050, ocean plastic will outweigh all of the ocean’s fish.

Types of Plastic.

Plastics is the most common type of trash to float around in our oceans.

However, plastics can create something smaller called microplastics.

Microplastics come from a variety of sources, including from larger plastic debris that degrades into smaller and smaller pieces.

In addition, microbeads are very tiny pieces of manufactured plastic that are added as exfoliants to health and beauty products. Exfoliants are a cosmetic product designed to remove dead cells from the surface of the skin.

Also, some exfoliants are used in cleansers, toothpastes, and lots of other beauty products. These tiny particles easily pass through water filtration systems and end up in the ocean, posing a threat to aquatic life.

Traveling Trash.

However, trash in our oceans doesn’t just stay where it’s placed, but it travels our oceans using sea currents. Take the Great Pacific Garbage Patch for example. 

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is a collection of marine garbage in the North Pacific Ocean.

The patch is actually composed of the Western Garbage Patch, located near Japan, and the Eastern Garbage Patch, located between the U.S. states of Hawaii and California.

In other words, plastics that are put into our oceans from California’s beaches can end up at the coast of Japan.

Also, the garbage that floats there on the ocean’s surface eventually falls down onto the ocean floor. The ocean floor is also a place where sea creatures can eat up the debris and die from the effects.

As stated earlier, the pollution from the garbage effects the oxygen in the water, which causes sea life to die from receiving no oxygen.

To Conclude.

In conclusion, garbage is something we have to deal with on a daily basis. Whether it’s just taking out the trash every day or starting a movement to clean up our oceans and beaches.

But you can do your part in helping by recycling items like plastic bottles, paper, cardboard, etc.

Garbage affects everyone in the end and we should all play a part in helping make our world a better place for everyone in the future.

The post Garbage and it’s Effects on our Environment appeared first on B&L Disposal.