Sustainable Planet Today

Did you know that you should recycle batteries? They’re not one of the most common recyclable items but they are very important. For this reason, the next time you’re ready to dispose of those used batteries, think about how important it is to recycle them. Pass by the garbage can and consider what other options you have available.

Used batteries should be disposed of properly or recycled because many of them contain hazardous waste that is bad for the environment. The exception is the alkaline batteries and they can be disposed of in the trash without worry. However, other types of batteries such as the lithium, nickel-cadmium, oxide, mercuric and so forth do pose a danger. Since it can be hard for many people to distinguish one type of battery from another, it would be best to simply use caution and dispose of all batteries the proper way or recycle them.

The elements contained in batteries can leak out and cause a serious hazard to the environment. This usually happens after they lose their power, which is why they shouldn’t be left lying around your home. They pose a danger to children and pets if they accidentally get a hold of them as well. So how do you dispose of batteries correctly?

Once the battery is no longer usable, it should be placed in a sealed container until it can be sent to a recycling plant. However, it’s not recommended that you place batteries together in a group. This is because if they get bumped and banged together, it’s possible for them to emit a charge that could actually cause them to ignite.

Once you have your used batteries stored properly in a sealed container, look for places in your area where you can drop them off to be recycled. You can also check out the local newspaper or go online to learn if your community has a pick up day for batteries and other hazardous household materials.

Computers have come a long way since they were first introduced to the public. They have changed significantly as new technology is being discovered. This is the good news. The bad news is that all of the old outdated computers need to be disposed of and many of them are ending up in the landfills. When you think about recycling, most people don’t normally think about computers but they can and should be recycled.

It’s estimated that only one out of every five computers are being recycled. This is partly due to the fact that most people don’t know how to recycle electronics correctly. Fortunately, there are many organizations available today that will accept, recycle, and dispose of used computers. You can use the Internet to help you find the ones nearest you and learn what steps you need to take. Most of these places have certain procedures that you’ll need to follow.

The first step in recycling computers would be to determine what shape it’s in. If your used computer is still in good shape and no more than five years old, then you can consider donating it to a charitable organization where it can be refurbished and put to good use. Contact them first to let them know what you have and they will give you directions for the proper procedure to follow.

If the computer is in bad shape or outdated, then it should be sent to a recycling plant to be disposed of properly. With so many companies and organizations available to help you dispose of your computer and other electronics the right way, there is no need for them to end up in the landfills.

Have you cleaned out your closet lately to discover that you have many outfits that no longer fit, that are out of style or that you simply just don’t want any longer? What about all of those old worn out items that really have no use anymore? What should you do with all these outfits that are just taking up space in your home? Consider recycling. It’s a much better idea than sending these items to the landfill.

It requires a great deal of energy and water to manufacture clothing. When you recycle garments, you cut back on the amount of energy needed to produce new clothing. Some dyes used in garments can also be toxic and for this reason they should not be sent to the landfills.

When it comes to recycling, you have several options to choose from. Some of these are listed below:

Slightly worn items:

• Donate these to the Goodwill, Salvation Army and similar organizations.

• Exchange outfits with family and friends.

• Be a part of community exchanges.

• Hold a garage sale or set up a table at the flea market.

• If you or someone in your home can sew, they can be mended, altered or made into something different.

Worn out clothing:

• These can also be donated to organizations such as the Salvation Army and Goodwill. They will send them to other organizations that will sort through them and recycle the fabric.

• You can use them for crafts and other projects, doll dresses and so much more.

• Turn these items into cleaning rags to use around the house or for washing your vehicle.

Recycling clothing is important and it’s a good way to help do your part when it comes to preserving natural resources. It’s also a good idea to buy recycled clothing whenever you can. Shop around at your local Goodwill, thrift stores and consignment stores. You may even be a little surprised at some of the great deals you can find at garage sales and flea markets.