Remove the aluminum rings using a flat-head screwdriver. Pry the bar holding the rings off of the binder by using the screwdriver as a small wedge beneath the fasteners at the top and bottom of the bar.
Cut open the vinyl to access the cardboard portion of the binder. Use a small knife and cut from the edge of each panel and on the spine.
Remove the inner cardboard portion of the binder.
Recycle the cardboard and aluminum rings. If your local waste collection company offers curbside cardboard and aluminum recycling, place the cardboard and aluminum rings with your normal recycling items. If you do not have curbside recycling, take the components to a local drop-off recycling center that accepts cardboard and aluminum.
Dispose of the vinyl, which cannot be recycled.