The tenant in my rental property will be moving out at the end of the month. From past conversations and visits for repairs, I know the carpet will have to be replaced. But what do you do with the old carpet? It's typical to toss carpet in the landfill, but there has to be a better way. Can carpet and the padding be recycled?
As the landlord and owner of this rental home, it's my responsibility to refund the security deposit within 14 days per Arizona tenant laws. To do that, I'll be reviewing the home's condition and every system and component inside and outside of the home. I already know of some drywall damage, carpet damage, and overall wear and tear from this tenant. And to get this home into market ready condition, the carpet is already scheduled to be replaced. I will not be adding this old carpet to the landfill. How is that possible? Simple. I've made the decision that the carpet and padding will be recycled!
After searching the internet for ways to recycle carpet, I happened upon a company called Aquafil. Founded in Italy in 1965, Aquafil now has a location in Phoenix as of 2017! There are other US locations in Georgia and California.
Throughout their history, Aquafil has acquired and created companies globally, making polyester, carpet, and other products. The key switch for Aquafil was in 2008 when they worked to create a circular company by recycling carpet fibers into creating carpet from 100% recycled content. And the first plant to open in the US is here in Phoenix! It's so exciting to see this type of recycling that is of a huge scale, eliminating carpet from landfills.
After contacting Aquafil, I was told there was no charge for me to bring carpet as a homeowner to be recycled. If a contractor delivers carpet and padding on a more regular basis, there is a charge, but it's less than the landfill!
Sharing tips to improve homes and the environment is a big part of my business plan as a realtor specializing in sustainability. Sustainability is a BIG topic of discussion, but it's also a 3 legged stool. Consider that sustainability must benefit the planet, it's people and must also be profitable within these guidelines. If sustainability weren't profitable, no one would participate. And to participate, your product or projects must benefit people and the planet so there you have it.
Recycling carpet and padding saves money, creates new products and employs people to do it, and it eliminates waste from the landfill. A very sustainable business model!
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