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Two new businesses in Chisago County are dedicated to the environmentally-friendly mantra: reduce, reuse and recycle.

Chisago Appliance, Electronic and Metal Recycling, based out of Lindstrom, and E Cycling Solutions, headquartered in Rush City, are aiming to reduce waste going into our landfills by helping consumers get rid of unwanted items.

Chisago Appliance, Electronic and Metal Recycling owner Mark Nelson said he started his business two years ago to fill a niche in the county.

"My neighbor is in the recycling business and encouraged me to start my own business," Nelson said.

It started as Chisago Metal Recycling, but Nelson recently changed the name to reflect all of the products he will collect.

"I used to get calls on aluminum can prices. I had to explain that this is a different kind of recycling company," Nelson said.

There are no drop-off locations; a call to Chisago Appliance et al and Nelson will set up a pick up time, either residential or commercial.

Generally, pick ups can be the same day, depending on what items are being picked up.

Accepted items include any household appliances and electronics and scrap metal.

Nelson's business can accommodate scrap vehicles, farm equipment and other scrap metal. "I'm able to pay customers for vehicles now," Nelson said.

Chisago Appliance, Electronic and Metal Recycling is listed under recyclers with the county, which means that customers receive a reduced rate on fees, because the business is subsidized by the county.

Nelson said the business has grown steadily in its first two years, particularly since they have received county support.

Pick ups can be anywhere in the local area and beyond, including all of Chisago and Washington counties and the Twin Cities metro.

After Nelson picks up items, they are brought to a recycling center in North St. Paul for sorting.

Appliances and electronics are first disassembled and any hazardous materials removed (such as freon in air conditioners and lead picture tubes in televisions).

Then, precious metals are sorted out for resale and the remaining materials continue on to a scrap yard, where they are crushed into cubes and ready to be melted down and reused.

While prices for recycling through Chisago Appliance, Electronic and Scrap Metal Recycling may be slightly higher than drop-off sites, consumers can factor in the convenience of having items picked up at their doorstep. Nelson said his prices are in line with what residents pay at community clean-up events.

To reach Nelson for a pick-up time, call (651) 257-1622.

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