When we think about recycling today, we typically think about regular recyclable items such as plastic bottles, aluminum, glass and tin cans. There are also now resources to recycle other office items such as Styrofoam, batteries, cell phones, CD’s and electronics. With our landfills becoming full, toxic and more expensive it is important for businesses to do their part to recycle as much as waste as possible. Here is a list of resources and office items that you can recycle. Don’t see an item listed? Visit our full list of recycling and donation resources for more recycling resources for businesses.
Styrofoam Packing Peanuts
Thanks to groups like the Peanut Hotline, packaging and shipping companies like Pak Mail and are part of the solution. So, rather than adding those packing peanuts to the landfill, consider sending them a box full.
Batteries
The worst thing about batteries is how toxic and damaging they are when left to decompose in our environment. First, check with the battery manufacturer as many times they offer recycling programs for their products. You can also contact Call2Recycle for locations that accept batteries for responsible recycling.
Cell Phones
You probably have see the cell phone recycling bins at your local big box electronics store or in the lobby of the cell phones stores but, did you know that there are other alternatives? A cell phone can be a huge blessing to those in need, go to Second Wave Recycling to find a charity. Domestic violence victims would also be very appreciative of your old phone so the NCADV will happily take it off your hands and put it to good use.
Bio-Plastics and Bio-degradable Materials
These are plastics made from lactic acid, soy protein or vegetable starches. Through naturally occurring processes these plastics will break down over time, completely and without releasing toxins into our soil. If you need to find a recycler for these items contact FindAComposter.com and they will help put you in touch. By making the effort to compost these products we will encourage the industry to continue to produce earth-friendly bio-plastics.
E-Waste (Computers, Printers, Monitors)
KOPEG (Keep Our Planet Earth Green) has an excellent recycling program that can also serve as a way to raise funds. Encourage recycling of items like old cell phones or MP3 players, broken digital cameras, obsolete PDAs and more, and they will help you turn it into cash.
If you aren’t sure how to recycle a material, Contact us to find out more!