The 411 on the CRV

For those of you not up on your recycling news, as of January 01, 2007 the California Refund Value (CRV) paid to consumers when they recycle containers at recycling centers is 5¢ for each beverage container less than 24 ounces and 10¢ for each container 24 ounces or greater.

Folks looking for a place to recycle their goods can search here. From the FAQ page:

Customers will continue to pay the current 4¢ for beverage containers under 24 oz. and 8¢ for containers 24 oz. and greater through June 30, 2007. Beginning July 1, 2007, if an overall recycling rate of 75% has not been achieved for calendar year 2006, consumers will pay 5¢ for beverage containers under 24 oz. and 10¢ for containers 24 oz. and greater that they purchase in California.

Hear that, Sacramento? There’s money to be made out there. Sure, you could enter a radio contest and sue when things don’t go your way or mingle online with registered sex offenders, but those of you with that “can do” spirit know what I’m talking about. Don’t let the homeless and less fortunate have all the fun, get out there and collect those bottles and cans. They won’t recycle themselves you know! Or wait, maybe they will…

Does this mean that the bottles and cans I dispose of in my county provided recycling container (and pay good money for) is being turned around and cashed in for big bucks? Am I paying the county to make money? Where’s my kick back?

Every time you buy one of the above, you pay CRV. That stands for California Refund Value. When you recycle the container, CRV can do one of two things:

  1. Go back into your pocket. (Return your containers to a Recycling Center and you’ll get your money back.)
  2. Help pay for recycling. Drop your containers in a recycling bin or put them out for curbside pick-up, and whoever cleans them up gets the money.

I guess that answers that.

Author: RonTopofIt

RonTopofIt is a complex personality, as are most of the small breed of modern day renaissance millionaires. He wishes more people were like him and yet believes that it takes all kinds. You've met RonTopofIt many times, you just don't remember him.

One thought on “The 411 on the CRV”

  1. I wonder if the market will support a private recycling service… You could put your recyclables at the curbside for a private company to pick up. They pay you a portion of the proceeds…

    Where are Kramer and Newman to do the math when you need them?

    Like

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