Finding a new lease on life

“Re-useful” ideas for your recyclables

As many of you know, Recycle NB is responsible for overseeing waste management plans for designated materials; namely, tires, paint, oil, antifreeze and electronics. We will also soon be adding packaging and paper products, as well as pharmaceuticals and sharps, to our list. These items are “designated” because the provincial government does not want them in our landfills. Ensuring they are disposed of properly and efficiently, and at minimal cost to communities, is of critical importance.

Most of these materials cannot be recycled or reused at home. There are only so many tire swings one can install around their property, after all. These materials need to be processed with proper equipment and broken down before they can be recycled into other products or disposed of safely.

There are lots of recyclables, however, that can be reused at home. Here are a few “re-useful” ideas.

1. Plastic takeout containers can be used to organize your junk drawer or home office. Put your pens and pencils in one, your scissors, sticky notes, etc. in another. You can also put your leftover condiment packets in one and store it neatly in your fridge or freezer.

2. Glass jars can have endless “re-uses” around the house. They are particularly handy for storage (buttons, nails, screws and other odds and ends), but could also be used to store candy, nuts and other snack items. You could also store baking items, such as chocolate chips, nuts and coconut.

3. Cardboard egg cartons can be used as seed starters when planning your flower or vegetable gardens in spring. Just fill with dirt, add seeds and keep watered until it’s time to plant.

Many other household items may be of interest to your local childcare centre or elementary school. Ask them if they accept any donated items for children’s arts and crafts classes, such as bottle caps, egg cartons or unused wrapping paper. Be sure to clean these items really well before dropping them off.

Feel free to share your clever “re-useful” tips on our social media pages. All photos, comments, likes and shares will be entered into a draw for a spring jacket and a water bottle. Good luck and in the meantime, happy “re-using” everyone!