“Polish and shine” – Alabama Environmental Council Recycling Center (photos)

Thanks to numerous volunteers, yesterday the Alabama Environmental Council  (AEC) did some heavy lifting and applied some “polish and shine” to their Recycling Center in Avondale, this weekend.

In one afternoon AEC volunteers organized the warehouse, cleared out the pavilion, turning it into an outdoor education center, and removed weeds around the entire center. 

The Alabama Environmental Council, which turns 50 years old this year, operates one of the state’s oldest and largest non-profit recycling centers.  The center processes and recycles more than 2000 tons of recyclables annually, which amounts to over 4 million pounds diverted from the landfill.

According to the AEC’s Facebook page, the following is the organization’s objectives for their recycling program:

• Be market-leaders in recycling resources and education; operate a best-practice drop-off model;
• Find ways to make the Recycling Center self-sustaining. Replicate at other location(s);
• Set-up and operate a restaurant/bar glass-recycling program
• Create education campaign to improve existing and implement additional curbside recycling pickup;
• Educate citizens, corporations, and communities about how to live more sustainably.

Along with the newly cleaned center in Avondale, the AEC has recently launched a new and improved website RecycAL solely dedicated to recycling in the Magic City.

Want to get involved

The Alabama Environmental Council is always seeking volunteers and members.  This year is especially special since they are celebrating their 50th year. Originally the Alabama Conservancy, the AEC led campaigns to establish the Sipsey, Cheaha and Dugger Mountain wilderness areas, Little River Canyon National Preserve and the Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Refuge. They have also been the state leader in the field of recycling and energy conservation. One way you can support the AEC is through their $50 for #50 campaign. Check it out today.