Most of
us know to separate our paper, plastic, glass and aluminum from the regular
trash. Some of us even know how to dispose of electronics, CFL bulbs, paint and
batteries. As our landfills continue to grow, it is important to continue
searching for new ways to reduce, reuse and recycle.
Although
cork is a renewable resource, it is not often recycled after use. The ReCORK
program collects used wine corks, turning them into flooring tiles, insulation,
craft materials and sports equipment. Over 39 million wine corks have been
collected since the inception of the program. In addition, ReCORK sponsors the
planting of thousands of cork trees each year to offset the carbon footprint of
recycling.
Monofilament
fishing line is non-biodegradable and cannot be recycled by usual means. The
lines often end up in our lakes and oceans, creating a potential hazard for
wildlife. The Berkley Conservation Institute recycles the fishing lines,
creating artificial habitat structures that promote plant growth and appeal to
fish. These “Fish-Habs” are made of monofilament lines, spools and other
post-consumer products. The Institute has recycled over 9 million miles of
fishing line since 1990.
Have a
bowling trophy that has been sitting in your basement for decades? Old trophies
are often made of molded plastic, which is sometimes difficult to recycle. Lamb
Awards and Engraving in Westminster, Maryland, pioneered trophy recycling by
reusing trophy parts or donating complete trophies to charities. They also
accept unwanted medals and plaques.
Over 12
million crayons are made in the United States each day, most of which
eventually end up in landfills. The
Minnesota-based Crazy Crayons “upcycles” crayons, transforming unwanted, broken
and used crayons into new crayons with fun shapes. Even the wax covered crayon
wrappers are bundled and reused as fire starters.
Have
some furniture, clothing or household items you just are not using anymore? The
Freecycle Network is comprised of local groups, moderated by volunteers, with
the intent of giving and getting unwanted items for free. Members can post
items that they are willing to offer, giving items that would normally be
thrown away a new life. This website gives a new meaning to “one man’s trash is
another man’s treasure.”
Although some parts of the country are unfortunately still
seeing snow, for most spring has finally sprung! As you begin your spring cleaning chores,
this is a great opportunity to discover new ways to help save energy (and
money) during the upcoming hot summer months.
Many of these strategies are simple, economical and will reduce your
energy consumption all season. 
