Recycling is about more than cans and newspaper. These fabulous programs are putting “trash” to good use.
-
Rechargeable batteries and cell phones
Many local stores collect rechargeable batteries from toys, tools, laptops, cordless phones, or flashlights for Call2Recycle. Visit Call2Recycle.org to find a drop-off location near you.
-
Used eyeglasses
Don’t throw them away! The Lions Club has a wonderful recycling program for used prescription glasses. Visit www.lionsclubs.org to find a drop-off site and donate your old glasses.
Many local organizations like schools, doctors’ offices, etc. collect the glasses for the Lion’s Club. You can make a difference in someone’s quality of life with your donation.
-
Ink and toner cartridge recycle programs
Office supply stores offer rewards programs for turning in your used ink and toner cartridges.
I believe Staples sends the rewards coupons more frequently, but both offer $3 credit for each cartridge you return to the store. Check the website of the office store you frequent to see if they offer similar programs.
There are also other programs like FreeRecycling.com. I haven’t personally used them but the idea is interesting.
-
Computer/TV equipment
LG, Dell, and Apple are a few examples of electronics companies that have recycle programs for their products.
Check the website of your used equipment for specific details on how you can recycle your old electronics. Several of these companies also offer discounts on new products if you recycle your old one.
-
Running shoes
There is quite a list of companies collecting used shoes which are then given to people in need. If they aren’t wearable, they can be recycled into playground surfaces and sports courts.
I am personally familiar with Nike’s program, but there are many listed at RunThePlanet.com.
-
Greeting cards
Mail used greeting cards to St. Jude’s Ranch for Children, where the fronts will be reused to make new cards. They don’t just collect Christmas cards, but also thank you, birthday, and general cards, too. Another way to support this program is to purchase cards from them.
-
Packing peanuts
Drop off plastic packing peanuts for reuse. Find a collection center in your area at LooseFillPackaging.com.
Have any other recycle programs to add to the list?
Related articles:
Recycle-Reuse-Reduce
10 Great Uses for Bags
Go Green – Getting Started
Special thanks to my sister for providing me with a few programs I wasn’t familiar with. She is my Go Green coach.
Hi Melinda,
Thanks for sharing these programs. I had no idea I could recycle old sneakers and greeting cards. Great post!
@Ileane
Thanks! I learned a few things myself doing the research.
Thanks for sharing
Some great ideas – especially the running shoes. I’m a runner and I go through lots of shoes – and they mostly just end up sitting in a massive pile at the bottom of my closet!
.-= Kate´s last blog ..Study Shows Beer Could Be Good For Bone Health =-.
Now you can put those old shoes to good use and clean out your closet at the same time.
The woman’s club I am involved with has used the Nike shoe recycle program for years.
You could ask a few friends if they have any they would like to add to your donation and send all the shoes in at once.
Wow I found a huge list of recycle programs at RealSimple.com. http://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/organizing/tips-techniques/recycle-anything-00000000006117/index.html
I didn’t know about crayon recycling!
Thanks for the lovely post Melinda. Trying to go green & trying to save some bucks with recycling has always been something i’m interested in
I’m trying to get better about recycling. I’ve been getting credits to Staples with the ink cartridges..gotta love that.
The only thing that I didn’t know was recyclable is greeting cards. I think it’s a great way to reuse cards! I might have to do the same as well and make cards out of the piles I have in my filing cabinet.
Great logo. I have been sending my old print cartridges back lately, and I feel really good about it.
I support any recycling programs because as of now we really should do something to be able to save the environment or the planet we’re living in before it’s too late.