Smart Solutions for Non Recyclables

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

02 Aug 2008 11:31 AM

We know that we are doing well for the environment when our recycling is much larger than our garbage. Recycling to reduce the amount of trash you leave behind on the planet is a wonderful thing. But what do you do with all of those things that can't be recycled, such as electronic equipment or plastics that aren't collected in your area? Here are some tips.

First, if you have something usable, consider posting it to a group such as freecycle. Even items that need a little repair may be wanted by someone who can fix them up. I've gotten rid of a rusty wheelbarrow, an old wedding dress, outdated computer software, an ancient microwave and tons of baby things this way. For more on freecyle.org, click here.

Second, see if you can make the items into something else. You would be surprised by how many new uses something that seems like trash could have. Check out an entire category of articles posted in the Frugal blog about reusing what you have. Just click here.

For batteries, look for a community solid waste department that can take them. Earth911.org lists places to peruse.

For CDs, you can donate them to local school or libraries if appropriate. You can also swap them at places such as zunafish.com or swapacd.org.

Bring your plastic bags back to your local supermarket. Did you know that you can actually make a reusable shopping bag by crocheting all of those plastic ones?

Packing peanuts can be dropped off at UPS stores and other packing/mailing locations, where they will be reused. Check out the website loosefillpackaging.com. Packing a gift yourself? Try using popcorn!

Cell phones can often be sold back or donated to a local charity such as a domestic abuse center where victims are given phones to call 911 in an emergency. You can also donate old cell phones to redjellyfish.org. Proceeds from the phones will go to help save rainforests.

Click here for more articles by Mary Ann Romans.

Related Posts:

Reducing Your Trash

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Eco Smart Home Tips

Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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Tashi (1013) 03 Aug 2008 07:21 AM

I've seen old plastic shopping bags re-birthed into -- what else -- recycled shopping bags, at Target. I haven't quite been able yet to wrap my head around that idea, by buying them. But I do agree it's a good re-use of materials. I always re-cycle my plastic bags, but I don't know if I'll try crocheting them (I doubt mine would turn out that great.). I prefer canvas tote bags from grocery stores or other businesses.

Mary Ann Romans (26886) 03 Aug 2008 07:30 AM

it still takes a lot of energy to recycle plastics, sometimes more energy that the product saves. Using tote bags is a great idea.

Samual (11722) 03 Aug 2008 03:10 PM

Instead of ripping up plastic bags to sew them together, why don't you just re-use the bag?

Mary Ann Romans (26886) 03 Aug 2008 04:14 PM

Samual, when you crochet the plastic together it becomes more durable and will last a much longer time. It will also be able to support more weight.