From CNBC: 2024-10-20 09:39:59

In a decision that highlights the challenges of eco-friendly consumerism, author Greg Iacurci paid $95 to recycle his old queen-size mattress in NYC, a process that is both difficult and expensive in the U.S. Americans discard 15-20 million mattresses annually, with most ending up in landfills. (Word count: 45)

Stuck with an old mattress in Brooklyn, the author explored options for disposal but faced limited free recycling choices. After failed attempts to give it away for reuse, paid disposal became the more appealing option. The recycling process involves stripping materials for reuse in various industries, but can be costly due to labor and transportation. (Word count: 45)

Recycling a mattress involves separating various materials, like wood, steel, foam, and more, for resale into different markets. While the process can be labor-intensive, it offers environmental benefits by reducing the need for new material extraction and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. However, fluctuating commodity prices and shipping costs impact profitability. (Word count: 45)

States like California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island are moving towards cost-effective mattress recycling, with programs funded by consumers to collect and recycle discarded mattresses for free. Individual consumers and institutions pay a fee when purchasing a new mattress to support the recycling efforts, ensuring that eco-friendly recycling remains financially sustainable. (Word count: 45)

Read more: Why I paid $95 to recycle a mattress — and you might, too