Sustainability

Before-and-after sustainability banner showing retired traffic signs transformed into reusable aluminum sign blanks by Northwest Sign Recycling.

Sustainable Aluminum Sign Recycling Since 2005

At Northwest Sign Recycling, sustainability is built into every part of our process. Since 2005, we have helped departments of transportation, public works agencies, contractors, and sign shops reduce waste by transforming retired aluminum traffic signs into clean, reusable sign blanks.

Our hydrostripping process removes reflective sheeting without damaging the aluminum underneath. Instead of sending valuable material to landfills or energy-intensive smelters, we extend the life of existing aluminum panels through reuse.


Why Aluminum Reuse Matters

Producing new aluminum requires significant energy and raw material extraction. Reusing existing aluminum sign panels dramatically reduces environmental impact while helping agencies and businesses lower material costs.

Reusing aluminum sign blanks can:

  • Reduce landfill waste
  • Lower energy consumption
  • Decrease demand for newly produced aluminum
  • Support agency sustainability initiatives
  • Extend the usable life of existing materials
  • Reduce procurement costs for sign shops and contractors

Northwest Sign Recycling helps customers meet both operational and environmental goals through practical, proven recycling solutions.


Environmental Impact

Our recycling and reuse process helps conserve resources and reduce energy consumption every year.

Annual Impact Highlights

  • 891,000 kWh of energy saved annually
  • Equivalent to powering approximately 79 homes each year
  • Up to 95% less energy used compared to producing new aluminum
  • Thousands of aluminum traffic signs diverted from waste streams

By reusing existing sign panels, agencies and businesses can reduce their environmental footprint while maintaining high-quality materials for future signage projects.


Our Hydrostripping Process

Northwest Sign Recycling uses a chemical-free hydrostripping system designed specifically for aluminum traffic signs.

The process includes:

  1. Collection and delivery of retired signs
  2. Inspection and sorting of aluminum panels
  3. Removal of reflective sheeting using high-pressure water
  4. Deburring and dent repair
  5. Quality inspection and grading
  6. Preparation for reuse as clean sign blanks

This process allows us to preserve usable aluminum while avoiding unnecessary waste.


Supporting Sustainable Procurement

Many agencies and organizations are looking for ways to improve sustainability reporting and reduce environmental impact within infrastructure projects.

Reusable aluminum sign blanks help support:

  • Sustainable purchasing initiatives
  • Waste reduction programs
  • Environmental reporting goals
  • Cost-effective material reuse strategies
  • Circular economy practices

Northwest Sign Recycling works with organizations across the United States to provide dependable recycling and reuse solutions for retired aluminum signage.


Serving Agencies and Sign Shops Nationwide

From our facility in Central Oregon, Northwest Sign Recycling serves customers throughout the United States.

Our customers include:

  • Departments of Transportation
  • Public Works Departments
  • Municipal agencies
  • Sign manufacturers
  • Traffic control contractors
  • Commercial sign shops

We are committed to helping customers reduce waste, control costs, and keep valuable aluminum materials in circulation.


Old Signs. New Life.

Every retired traffic sign represents an opportunity to reduce waste and reuse valuable material. Northwest Sign Recycling is proud to help customers extend the life of aluminum sign panels through sustainable recycling and restoration.

To learn more about our process or request information about reusable aluminum sign blanks, contact Northwest Sign Recycling today.