A recycling bin awaiting curbside pickup doesn’t seem like an obvious location for a crime, but it often is in Northern California cities and in other locations throughout the country, reports the Associated Press.

The combination of a slow economy and higher prices for aluminum, cardboard and newsprint is contributing to the rise in curbside theft.  In many instances, the robbers have organized into fleets of trucks, sweeping neighborhoods for valuable recyclables.

Many state and local authorities are seeking more stringent regulations to discourage theft because lost revenue can endanger recycling programs. Some cities already have laws against recycling bin poaching. Getting caught in San Fransisco could mean a fine of up to 500 dollars and six months in jail. In New York City, thieves are subject to arrest, vehicle impoundment and fines of up to 5,000 dollars. Authorities continue to pursue a solution to the growing problem.

Make some extra cash off your own recyclables, use Earth 911 to recycle aluminum, cardboard and newsprint in your area.