Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Car Seats, Booster Seats, and Bases: Reuse, Recycling, and Disposal Car seats, booster seats, and infant car seat bases are safety equipment. Before reusing, donating, selling, recycling, or discarding them, check their age, condition, recall status, and crash history. Safety takes priority over extending a product’s useful life or keeping it out of a landfill. A second-hand seat should be considered for use only when its history and suitability can be verified. When to stop using a seat Check the product’s labels and instruction manual for its expiration date or manufacturer-specified useful life. Expiration periods vary by model and manufacturer; do not assume that every seat expires after the same number of years. If you cannot determine the expiration date, contact the manufacturer before using or passing along the seat. Check a detachable base separately rather than assuming it has the same manufacturer or expiration date as the seat. Stop using the product and consult the manufacturer if it: Has reached its expiration date. Has an unresolved safety recall. Has cracks, damaged foam, frayed harness webbing, broken buckles, missing parts, or other damage. Lacks the identifying information needed to verify its model, manufacture date, age, or recall status. Has an unknown history. Has been involved in a crash that requires replacement. A missing instruction manual or replaceable part does not necessarily mean the entire seat must be discarded. NHTSA advises contacting the manufacturer because manuals and some replacement parts can be obtained. Do not use or pass along the seat until the correct instructions and all required manufacturer-approved parts are available. Similarly, some recalls can be resolved through a manufacturer’s repair or replacement remedy rather than disposal of the whole seat. Replacement after a crash NHTSA recommends replacing car seats after a moderate or severe crash. A seat does not automatically require replacement after a minor crash, but continued use must also be permitted by the manufacturer. Some manufacturers require replacement after any crash. Under NHTSA’s guidance, a crash qualifies as minor only when all five conditions are met: The vehicle could be driven away from the crash site. The vehicle door nearest the car seat was not damaged. No vehicle occupants were injured. No air bags deployed. The car seat has no visible damage The absence of visible damage alone is not enough to establish that a seat can remain in use. Follow the manufacturer’s crash-replacement instructions for the specific seat and any base involved. Reuse, donation, and resale Only consider passing along a seat or base when you can verify its history and confirm that it: Remains within the manufacturer’s useful-life limit. Has the identifying labels needed to check its age and recall status. Has no unresolved recalls. Has all required parts and the correct instruction manual. Has no damage affecting its safety. Has no crash history requiring replacement under the manufacturer’s instructions and NHTSA’s guidance. If the history is unknown, do not use, donate, or sell it for transporting a child. A visual inspection cannot establish an unknown crash history. Before donating, contact the receiving organization. Acceptance policies vary, and an organization may decline used child restraints even when they appear to meet reuse criteria. Do not leave a seat at a donation site without confirming acceptance. Recycling options across the United States Car seats contain multiple materials and generally require a dedicated collection program rather than ordinary curbside recycling. Do not place a complete seat or base in a curbside recycling bin unless your local program explicitly accepts it. Potential options include: Retailer trade-in events. State or local car-seat collection programs. Specialized recycling services. Manufacturer take-back programs, where available. Availability is not uniform nationwide. Ask your local waste authority or child-passenger-safety program about current options, and contact the receiving program before transporting a seat. A hospital, fire station, police department, or inspection station should not be assumed to accept seats for recycling simply because it provides child-passenger-safety assistance. Retailer trade-in events Target periodically offers an in-store Car Seat Trade-In event that accepts infant seats, convertible seats, bases, harnessed seats, and booster seats, including expired or damaged products. Check Target’s event page for future dates rather than treating collection as a year-round. Target states that participating recycling partners use collected materials to manufacture products such as pallets, plastic buckets, carpet padding, construction materials, and selected household products. This is a recycling route, not a donation program for continued use of the seats. Before using a collection program Confirm: Whether the program is currently operating and open to you. Whether it accepts seats, boosters, and bases. Whether expired, damaged, recalled, or crashed products are eligible. Whether covers, padding, harnesses, or metal components must remain attached. Whether appointments, fees, or residency restrictions apply. Preparation requirements differ. Do not dismantle a seat intended for collection until the program tells you how to prepare it. If disposal is the only option Contact your waste provider to confirm whether the product can go in household trash, requires bulky-item collection, or must be delivered to a designated facility. Once the seat has been permanently retired and disposal is confirmed: Follow any disposal instructions in the manufacturer’s manual. Remove the fabric cover and other removable soft components where practical. Cut the harness and buckle straps to discourage reuse. Clearly mark the shell and any discarded base “DO NOT USE.” Package and place the parts for disposal according to your waste provider’s instructions. Separate materials for recycling only when a recycler confirms acceptance. Cutting straps and marking the shell can discourage recovery and reuse, but these steps do not replace proper disposal. Safety and Legal Notice This guide provides general educational information and does not replace manufacturer instructions, recall notices, or applicable child-passenger-safety laws. Follow the instructions for the specific seat and base, including expiration, maintenance, and crash-replacement requirements. A certified Child Passenger Safety Technician can help with seat selection, installation, and use. However, an inspection cannot establish an unknown product history or guarantee that a secondhand seat is safe. Contact the manufacturer when product condition, replacement parts, recall remedies, or continued use is uncertain. Sources National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: “Used Car Seat Safety Checklist.” National guidance on secondhand-seat history, labels, recalls, parts, and instructions. nhtsa National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: “Car Seat Use After a Crash.” National replacement recommendations and the five minor-crash criteria. nhtsa National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: “Car Seats and Booster Seats.” Manufacturer instructions, registration, recall notifications, and installation assistance. nhtsa Safe Kids Worldwide: “Time for a Change: Car Seat, Booster Seat, Seat Belt.” Guidance on expiration and preventing reuse of unsafe seats. ucsg.safekids Target: “Car Seat Trade-In Event” and “Car Seat Trade-In Event FAQ.” Event dates, eligible products, participation limits, and material processing. target Safe in the Seat: “Used Car Seat Evaluation Guide for CPSTs” and “What To Do With Expired Car Seat.” Useful-life verification, secondhand-seat assessment, and disposal preparation. Safe Ride 4 Kids: “Recycle Car Seats: What Do I Do With an Old Car Seat?” Overview of recycling and take-back options. saferide4kids Safe Kids Wisconsin: “Disposing of Used Car Seats.” Referenced for practical steps to discourage unsafe reuse, not as a nationwide waste-collection rule. safekidswi Colorado Department of Transportation - “Car Seat Recycling Program.” An example of a state-specific collection program, not a service available nationwide.

Learn about plastic types, recycling codes, and proper disposal methods. Discover which plastics are recyclable, their environmental impact, and how to reduce plastic waste effectively on our All About Recycling page of Connecting the Dots Project (CTDP). Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards All about plastics All about plastics All about plastics All about plastics Plastics recycling rate less than 9% Scroll to see where the rest ends up. Plastic Symbols Understanding plastic codes helps in proper recycling. Click the numbers below. General Rule of Thumb in Recycling Different Equipment & Capabilities – Not all recycling centers have the same technology to process materials. What one facility can recycle, another might not. Local Regulations – Cities, counties, and states have different rules about what materials can be recycled, how they should be sorted, and where they should be taken. Market Demand – Recycling is influenced by market conditions. Some materials (e.g., certain plastics) may not be accepted if there's no buyer for the recycled material. Contamination Risks – Recycling incorrectly (e.g., throwing in greasy pizza boxes or plastic bags) can contaminate entire batches, making them unrecyclable. Facilities have different standards on what they accept to minimize contamination. Curbside vs. Drop-off Programs – Some items (e.g., batteries, electronics, hazardous waste) may not be accepted in curbside bins but can be dropped off at special locations. Check out more on our recycling page. You need to check recycling guidelines vary by location. Can't Find the Recycling Code? Here's a general guide by product type. Local rules may vary. RESTRICTED Plastic products for Curbside Recycling Bio-based plastics Compostable or bio-based plastics are not typically recyclable. They should be composted or thrown away in the trash. ACCEPTED Plastic products for Curbside Recycling PET Bottles ♳ PET – Polyethylene Terephthalate ✅ Accepted Items: Water and soda bottles Juice bottles Salad dressing & condiment bottles Peanut butter & food jars ❌ Not Accepted: PET clamshell containers (many programs do not accept them) Oily or heavily soiled containers Pigments Pigments Pigments Pigments Learn about plastic pigments Additives Additives Additives Additives About 4,200 out of 16,000 (or 26%) identified as hazardous Polymer Structure Polymer Structure Polymer Structure Polymer Structure Two main categories based on their polymer structure. Labels & Adhesives Labels & Adhesives Labels & Adhesives Labels & Adhesives How Labels and adhesives affect plastic recycling Size & Shape Size & Shape Size & Shape Size & Shape Challenges with recycling of large plastics Factors Affecting Recyclability Microplastics Microplastics (MPs) are tiny plastic particles, less than 5 mm in size, that are widespread pollutants in water, air, and soil. They originate from the breakdown of larger plastic items (secondary MPs) and direct sources like cosmetics and industrial pellets (primary MPs). MPs can absorb harmful environmental pollutants and may leach certain additives like BPA and phthalates under conditions like heat, sunlight, or weathering. Human exposure occurs through ingestion, inhalation, and contact, raising concerns about potential health and environmental impacts. Micro and Nanoplastics Microplastics are reaching our bones High Risk Populations Watch "Tiny Particles, Big Impact" Microplastic Prevention Microplastics in Human Bodies Food Assistance Programs in U.S.: Combatting Food Insecurity and Processed Food Potential Health Risks Mechanism of Microplastics Microplastic Sources Toxic Plastic Ingredients Microplastics in the Extremes: Tracing Pollution from the Deep Sea to the Skies

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Microplastics in the Arctic Ice Sheets and Mariana Trench Microplastics in the Arctic Ice Sheets and Mariana Trench: A Global Concern Microplastic pollution has become an alarming global issue, with recent research revealing its presence in some of the most remote and extreme environments on Earth. Studies have shown that microplastics are accumulating in Arctic ice sheets and even in the deepest part of the ocean, the Mariana Trench. These findings highlight the far-reaching impact of human activities on the planet and raise concerns about the potential consequences for ecosystems and climate regulation. Microplastics in the Arctic Ice Sheets A study published in the journal Geoscience Frontiers sheds light on the presence of microplastics in Arctic ice sheets. The research reveals that these tiny plastic particles are embedded in ice, snow, seawater, rivers, and sediments, making the Arctic a temporary sink for microplastic pollution. However, as the ice melts due to rising global temperatures, the microplastics trapped in these frozen reserves are released back into the environment, contributing to further contamination. Microplastics in the Arctic originate from various sources, including ocean currents transporting plastic waste from distant regions, atmospheric deposition, and local human activities such as shipping and fishing. Their presence in such a fragile ecosystem raises concerns about their impact on Arctic marine life, which relies on the region’s pristine environment for survival. These plastics may be ingested by plankton, fish, and larger marine animals, disrupting the food chain and potentially entering human diets through seafood consumption. Moreover, microplastics in Arctic ice may influence climate change. Dark-colored particles in the ice can reduce its reflectivity (albedo effect), causing it to absorb more heat and accelerate melting. This feedback loop exacerbates global warming and poses a threat to Arctic habitats and communities. Microplastics in the Mariana Trench The discovery of microplastics in the Mariana Trench, the deepest point in the ocean, demonstrates the extent to which plastic pollution has infiltrated Earth’s ecosystems. Research published in Geochemical Perspectives confirms that plastic debris is not just a surface-level issue but has made its way into even the most remote and extreme marine environments. Scientists have found microplastics in deep-sea sediments and within marine organisms living in the trench, proving that plastic particles are being transported across oceanic depths. The sources of these plastics include sinking surface debris, microfibers shed from synthetic clothing, and waste carried by ocean currents from polluted coastlines. The implications of microplastics at such depths are concerning. Deep-sea organisms are particularly vulnerable because their slow metabolism and long lifespans make them more susceptible to bioaccumulation. The ingestion of microplastics may introduce harmful chemicals into their systems, impacting their survival and potentially altering deep-sea ecosystems that have remained largely undisturbed for millennia. Global Implications and Call for Action The presence of microplastics in both the Arctic ice sheets and the Mariana Trench highlights the pervasive nature of plastic pollution and its ability to reach even the most isolated environments on the planet. This widespread contamination raises concerns about the long-term effects on marine biodiversity, climate regulation, and human health. Addressing this crisis requires a collective effort to reduce plastic production, improve waste management, and develop sustainable alternatives. Governments, industries, and individuals must take proactive measures to limit plastic pollution, such as enforcing stricter regulations on plastic use, investing in innovative materials, and promoting responsible consumption. As research continues to uncover the true scale of microplastic pollution, it is crucial to act swiftly to mitigate its impact. The findings from the Arctic and the Mariana Trench serve as a stark reminder that no place on Earth is immune to the consequences of human activity, and urgent action is needed to protect our planet’s most fragile ecosystems. Source: http://geosciencefrontiers.com/cn/article/pdf/preview/10.1016/j.gsf.2023.101566.pdf https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/microplastic-pollution-is-found-in-deep-sea https://oceanconservancy.org/blog/2021/01/11/microplastics-found-earths-deepest-trough-highest-peak/ http://geosciencefrontiers.com/cn/article/pdf/preview/10.1016/j.gsf.2023.101566.pdf https://sos.noaa.gov/education/phenomenon-based-learning/plastic-in-mariana-trench/ ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Please Donate to Support Our Mission ❤️ Help us grow a hub for environmental literacy and support our youth-led initiative working toward a better future for our planet 🌎 How you can help power our mission: Donate : Every dollar counts. Contribute now to help us reach our goal. Share: Share our campaign with your friends, family, and on social media. Your advocacy can amplify our impact. Connecting The Dots Project is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. Thank you so much for supporting our mission, your support is invaluable!!

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of Aerosol Cans Aerosol cans, including hairspray, deodorant, cooking spray, air freshener, spray paint, lubricants, pesticides, and cleaners, require different disposal methods depending on whether they are completely empty and what product they contained. Do not place a partially full, leaking, damaged, or still-pressurized aerosol can in curbside recycling or household trash. These cans may contain flammable propellants, solvents, pesticides, or other hazardous ingredients and can cause fires, explosions, chemical exposure, or equipment damage. EPA regulates hazardous-waste aerosol cans under its Universal Waste program. Empty household aerosol cans Many local recycling programs accept fully empty steel or aluminum aerosol cans, but you must confirm with your local provider first. A can is considered ready for recycling only when: No product comes out when the nozzle is pressed. No hiss or propellant is released. The can feels empty. The local recycling program specifically accepts empty aerosol cans. How to prepare Use the product completely as intended. Keep the nozzle and valve intact. Do not puncture, crush, flatten, drill, cut, or burn the can. Follow your local program’s instructions for the plastic cap. Some programs allow the cap to stay on; others ask that it be removed and discarded. Place the accepted empty can loose in curbside recycling, never inside a plastic bag. For example, Omaha accepts empty household aerosol cans in curbside recycling and allows caps to remain on, but specifically excludes cans with remaining contents. Partially full, unwanted, or hazardous cans Take aerosol cans to a household hazardous-waste facility, collection event, or other approved local program if they are: Partially full Still pressurized or hissing Leaking, rusty, damaged, or swollen Containing spray paint, stain, varnish, solvents, pesticides, insecticide, automotive chemicals, lubricants, adhesives, or strong cleaners Labeled Danger , Warning , Poison , Flammable , Toxic , Corrosive , Caustic , or similar hazard language Of unknown contents Do not try to empty a can by spraying it into the air, onto the ground, into a drain, or onto another object simply to make it recyclable. Do not release chemicals intentionally indoors or outdoors. EPA explains that aerosol cans can contain a wide range of products, including paint, solvents, pesticides, food products, and personal-care products. When they contain hazardous waste, they must be managed through appropriate hazardous-waste systems. Leaking or damaged aerosol cans A leaking or damaged aerosol can requires additional caution. Move people, pets, and ignition sources away from the area. Do not puncture, crush, spray, burn, or attempt to repair the can. Avoid flames, sparks, cigarettes, electrical switches, and heat sources. If fumes are present, ventilate the area only if it is safe to do so. Contact your local fire department nonemergency line, household hazardous-waste facility, manufacturer, or local waste authority for instructions. Call 911 if there is fire, strong fumes, injury, significant leakage, or an immediate danger. Do not place a leaking can in household trash or curbside recycling. EPA and environmental health guidance warn that even “empty” cans may retain pressure and may explode if punctured or exposed to heat. Product-specific guidance Aerosol product Fully empty can Partially full, leaking, or pressurized can Hairspray, deodorant, shaving cream, whipped cream Recycle only if local program accepts empty aerosol cans Household hazardous-waste program or local direction Cooking spray Recycle only if completely empty and locally accepted Household hazardous-waste program or local direction Air freshener and disinfectant spray Recycle only if completely empty and locally accepted Household hazardous-waste program or local direction Spray paint, primer, stain, varnish Recycle only if completely empty and locally accepted Household hazardous-waste program Pesticide or insecticide spray Recycle only if completely empty and locally accepted Household hazardous-waste program Automotive spray, lubricant, degreaser, adhesive Recycle only if completely empty and locally accepted Household hazardous-waste program What not to do Do not place partially full cans in curbside recycling. Do not place leaking or pressurized cans in household trash. Do not puncture, crush, flatten, drill, cut, burn, or incinerate aerosol cans. Do not remove or tamper with the valve or nozzle. Do not spray leftover product into sinks, toilets, storm drains, soil, waterways, or the air. Do not store aerosol cans near heat, sunlight, flames, sparks, stoves, grills, furnaces, or vehicles. Do not put aerosol cans in compost or yard waste. Puncturing and draining aerosol cans is a regulated process for trained businesses using approved equipment, written procedures, emission controls, and hazardous-waste management practices. It is not an appropriate household disposal method. Safety and Legal Notice This guide is for general educational purposes only. It is not hazardous-waste, fire-safety, chemical-handling, transportation, environmental, or legal advice. Aerosol-can disposal requirements vary by product, remaining contents, hazard classification, state and local rules, and receiving facility. Always follow the product label, Safety Data Sheet, manufacturer instructions, and directions from your local household hazardous-waste program or waste provider. Do not puncture, crush, drill, cut, burn, incinerate, dismantle, or deliberately discharge an aerosol can. Do not place partially full, pressurized, damaged, leaking, recalled, or unknown aerosol cans in curbside recycling or household trash. Keep aerosol cans upright, away from children, pets, heat, sparks, flames, and direct sunlight. If a can is leaking, smoking, hot, damaged, producing strong fumes, or creating an immediate fire or health danger, leave the area, avoid ignition sources, and call 911 or your local emergency number. Sources U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Adding Aerosol Cans to the Universal Waste Regulations . EPA explains how aerosol cans containing hazardous waste are managed under the federal Universal Waste program and identifies common aerosol-can contents, including paints, solvents, pesticides, food products, and personal-care products. New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, Aerosol Cans . This state guidance advises residents to take aerosol cans that still contain product or propellant to a household hazardous-waste collection program. Omaha Recycling Guide, Aerosol Cans . This local guide explains that completely empty aerosol cans from common household products may be accepted in curbside recycling, while cans with contents remaining should not be placed in recycling. Illinois State University Environmental Health and Safety, Aerosol Cans and Sprays . This resource describes aerosol cans as pressurized containers that may contain paints, solvents, adhesives, lubricants, pesticides, disinfectants, and other materials requiring proper waste management. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Federal Register Notice: Adding Aerosol Cans to Universal Waste Regulations . This rulemaking record provides federal regulatory context for hazardous-waste aerosol cans and their management.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards The Artificial Sun on Earth: A New Era of Energy Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak of China Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak, or EAST by Hefei Institutes of Physical Science and Chinese Academy of Sciences, is one of the world’s most important fusion research machines. Its purpose is not to recreate the Sun itself, but to demonstrate that humans can confine and control superheated plasma long enough to make fusion energy practical. EAST is a research device rather than a power plant, yet it plays a central role in advancing the science that could one day transform global energy systems. Fusion works by combining light nuclei, usually hydrogen isotopes, under extreme heat and pressure. In a tokamak, this plasma is confined using powerful magnetic fields so it never touches the reactor walls. This method, known as magnetic confinement, is one of the leading approaches toward achieving commercial fusion power. Unlike conventional nuclear fission reactors, which split heavy atoms such as uranium, fusion joins light atoms together. Fission is already commercially established, but it produces long-lived radioactive waste and carries the risk of severe accidents if cooling systems fail. Fusion, by contrast, produces no carbon emissions during operation and does not carry the same risk of runaway chain reactions. However, it is not entirely free of waste or technical challenges. A key point often overlooked is that fusion is not only about achieving extreme temperatures. The greater challenge is in maintaining plasma stability, producing sufficient tritium fuel, and developing materials that can withstand intense neutron bombardment over time. Superconducting magnets require cryogenic cooling, while the reactor must also manage extraordinary heat loads. As a result, future fusion systems will contain plasma hotter than the Sun’s core inside equipment cooled to temperatures near absolute zero. Unlike conventional nuclear reactors, a fusion reactor can be shut down very quickly. In most cases, the reaction stops within seconds because it depends on extreme temperature and precise magnetic confinement. If those conditions are disrupted, the plasma naturally cools and the reaction ceases without the risk of a meltdown. Fusion also holds strong environmental potential. Its fuel sources are widely available, with deuterium extracted from water and tritium potentially bred from lithium within the reactor itself. Although fusion produces far less long-lived radioactive waste than fission, future plants will still require careful water use, periodic material replacement, and management of short-lived radioactive activation in reactor components. The significance of EAST lies not in achieving full fusion energy, but in demonstrating sustained plasma control over long durations. This progress represents a critical step toward developing reliable and scalable fusion systems. EAST supports global research efforts rather than supplying electricity to the grid, and its findings contribute to major fusion programs across Europe, Japan, South Korea, India, and the United States. Despite its promise, fusion remains a highly complex and expensive technology. EAST and similar devices continue to face major challenges, including plasma stability, material degradation, tritium fuel management, and the transition from experimental systems to commercial-scale energy production. Watch on NASA Space News: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FcZP4_CoYDo Sources: The Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak: https://www.sciencedirect.com/.../pii/S2095809921003933 Chinese nuclear fusion reactor pushes plasma past crucial limit: what happens next: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-026-00063-4 International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA): https://www.iaea.org/topics/fusion-energy U.S. Department of Energy, Fusion Energy Sciences: https://science.osti.gov/fes ITER Organization: https://www.iter.org National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine: https://www.nationalacademies.org/our-work/fusion-energy EUROfusion: https://www.euro-fusion.org

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Recycling code #3: PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is often chosen for its flexibility in plastic food packaging and wrapping. It is also used in a variety of other construction products, such as pipes, window profiles, flooring, and certain packaging materials. Recycling PVC poses challenges due to its chlorine content and the presence of additives like phthalates, which complicate processing. As a result, PVC is less commonly accepted in curbside recycling programs. Previous Next

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Challenges with large plastics Size & Handling Issues Large plastics (e.g., bins, crates, pipes) do not fit into standard recycling equipment, requiring manual breaking or shredding before processing. Bulky items can jam conveyor belts or overload shredders if not properly pre-processed. Material Composition Many large plastic items are made of reinforced plastics, mixed polymers, or thermoset plastics (which cannot be melted down and reshaped). Fiberglass, carbon fiber, and plastic-metal composites complicate recycling. Collection & Transportation Large plastic waste is difficult to collect and transport efficiently due to its size and weight. Not all municipal recycling programs accept bulky plastics, requiring special drop-off centers . Degradation & Contamination Outdoor plastics (like playground equipment and patio furniture) degrade under UV exposure, making them weaker for recycling . Contaminants (such as embedded metal parts, paints, and coatings) require extra cleaning or removal before recycling. References: Geyer, R., Jambeck, J. R., & Law, K. L. (2017). "Production, use, and fate of all plastics ever made." Science Advances, 3(7), e1700782. Plastics Recyclers Europe. "Large Plastic Object Recycling." Previous Next

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back What Has 9 Brains, 3 Hearts, and Blue Blood? 10 facts about octopuses 1. They Have 9 Brains Octopuses have a central brain and a mini-brain in each of their eight arms. This setup allows their arms to act semi-independently, solving problems and exploring even while disconnected from the main brain. 2. They Have 3 Hearts Two hearts pump blood to the gills, while the third circulates it to the rest of the body. Interestingly, the systemic heart (the one that supplies the body) stops beating when they swim, which is why they prefer crawling. 3. Their Blood Is Blue Octopuses have copper-based blood called hemocyanin, which is more efficient than iron-based blood (like ours) in cold, low-oxygen environments, perfect for the deep sea. 4. Masters of Camouflage Using specialized skin cells called chromatophores, octopuses can change color and texture in milliseconds to blend into their surroundings or communicate with other animals. 5. They Use Ink as a Smoke Screen and a Weapon When threatened, octopuses eject a cloud of dark ink to obscure a predator’s view, helping them escape. But the ink isn’t just for camouflage, it also contains tyrosinase, a chemical that can irritate predators’ eyes and dull their sense of smell, making it harder for them to hunt. 6. They Can Regrow Limbs If an octopus loses an arm, it can fully regenerate it, complete with nerves, muscles, and even its local “mini-brain.” 7. They Squeeze Through Tiny Gaps Octopuses have no bones and can compress their soft bodies to fit through spaces no bigger than their beak; the only hard part of their body. 8. Most Octopuses Reproduce Only Once, laying Thousands of Eggs Before They Die Most octopus species are semelparous, meaning they reproduce just once in their lifetime. During this single reproductive event, a female can lay anywhere from tens of thousands to over half a million eggs, depending on the species. She then devotes herself entirely to guarding and caring for the eggs, often without eating, until they hatch. This self-sacrificing process, triggered by hormonal changes in the optic gland, ends in her death. While this dramatic life cycle is common, some deep-sea species show variations, with fewer, larger eggs and slightly different behaviors. 9. They Use Ink to Escape Predators When threatened, octopuses shoot a dark ink cloud to distract and confuse predators while they make their getaway. The ink may also dull a predator’s sense of smell. 10. They Can Think With Their Limbs Octopuses have a central brain and a mini-brain in each of their eight arms. These arm-based neural centers allow the limbs to operate semi-independently, exploring, reacting, and solving problems on their own. In a sense, each arm can “think” for itself. If you want to learn more about octopus, check out Oscar winning film, my octopus teacher. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3s0LTDhqe5A Sources: youtube.com/watch?v=3s0LTDhqe5A&pp=0gcJCdgAo7VqN5tD https://www.jpost.com/.../science-around.../article-829458 https://www.nationalgeographic.com/.../facts/common-octopus https://www.jpost.com/.../science-around.../article-829458 ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Safe Disposal and Recycling of Knives Kitchen knives, utility knives, razor blades, pocketknives, and other sharp tools should never be placed loose in household trash or curbside recycling. Unprotected blades can cut sanitation workers, damage recycling equipment, and injure anyone handling waste. The safest option is to donate or repair usable knives, recycle eligible metal knives through a scrap-metal facility, or securely contain damaged knives before disposal. Reuse, donate, or recycle Knife condition Best option Important notes Clean, safe, usable kitchen knife Donate, give away, sell, or sharpen Contact community kitchens, shelters, culinary programs, thrift stores, or reuse centers before donating Dull but intact knife Sharpen or repair A professional sharpener may extend its useful life Metal knife beyond repair Scrap-metal recycler Call first to confirm the facility accepts knives and whether blades must be wrapped Utility knife with replaceable blade Keep the handle; dispose of blade safely Use a manufacturer blade bank or puncture-resistant sharps container if available Broken, bent, rusted, or unsafe knife Securely package and dispose according to local rules Do not donate, sell, or give away unsafe tools Many scrap-metal recyclers accept steel and stainless-steel knives, but policies vary. Do not place knives in curbside recycling because they can injure workers and damage sorting equipment. Safe household disposal If a knife cannot be reused or accepted for scrap-metal recycling, contact your local waste provider first. If household trash disposal is allowed, use this method: Cover the blade. Wrap the blade fully in several layers of thick cardboard, heavy paper, or bubble wrap. Secure the wrapping. Tape it tightly so no sharp edge or tip can cut through. Use a rigid outer container. Place the wrapped knife in a sturdy cardboard box or another puncture-resistant container. Seal and label it. Tape the container shut and write “Sharp Object” or “Sharp Metal, Do Not Recycle” clearly on the outside. Place it in household trash only if local rules allow. Never put the container in a curbside recycling cart. Using a strong container and a clear warning label helps protect waste workers. University safety guidance similarly recommends placing sharp objects in a hard-sided container, taping it shut, and marking it clearly before disposal. Utility blades and razor blades Loose utility blades, box-cutter blades, hobby blades, and razor blades require extra care because they are small and easily lost in waste. Use a commercially made blade bank or sharps container when available. A puncture-resistant, tightly sealed container may be appropriate for household blade disposal if allowed locally. Clearly mark the container “Sharps” or “Do Not Recycle.” Keep it away from children and pets. Do not place loose blades in trash, recycling, drains, toilets, or public litter bins. Medical needles, lancets, and contaminated medical blades require separate medical-sharps disposal and should not be managed as ordinary household knives. EPA warns that loose sharps can injure sanitation workers and others who handle waste. What not to do Do not put loose knives or blades in trash bags. Do not place knives, blades, or sharp tools in curbside recycling. Do not donate a knife that is broken, cracked, badly rusted, missing a handle, or otherwise unsafe. Do not burn knives or coated blades. Do not bury knives or throw them outdoors. Do not leave knives where children, pets, or visitors can access them. Do not use a glass container for sharp disposal because it can break. Safety and Legal Notice This guide is for general educational purposes only. Local rules for scrap-metal recycling, household trash, blades, and sharp-object disposal vary by waste provider, recycler, and jurisdiction. Confirm current instructions with the receiving recycler or local waste authority before transporting or discarding knives. Use caution when handling any sharp object. Wear cut-resistant gloves and eye protection when appropriate, keep blades sheathed or wrapped, and store them securely away from children and pets. Do not attempt to alter, break, bend, destroy, or dismantle a knife or blade unless you are trained and it can be done safely. This guidance does not apply to medical sharps or items contaminated with blood or other potentially infectious materials. Follow local health-department or medical-waste instructions for those materials. Sources U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Safe Needle Disposal for Households . Princeton University Environmental Health and Safety, Don’t Let an Inconvenience Become an Injury . Purdue University Environmental Health and Safety, Sharps and Infectious Waste Handling and Disposal Guidelines .

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Empty Prescription Pill Bottles Recycling and Donation Amber prescription bottles can help protect some medicines from light exposure, but the medication’s approved packaging and pharmacy label, not bottle color alone, determine its storage requirements. FDA guidance recognizes opaque or amber containers as common ways to provide light protection when it is needed. Empty prescription bottles may be donated or recycled in some places, but never donate or recycle bottles that still contain medication . Before You Reuse or Recycle Remove all remaining medication and dispose of it through an authorized drug take-back program. Remove or completely obscure the prescription label and any personal information. Wash the bottle and cap with soap and water. Let both dry completely. Check local program rules before placing bottles in a recycling bin or mailing them to a donation program. Donation Options Matthew 25: Ministries accepts clean, empty, dry, recapped, label-free plastic prescription and over-the-counter pill bottles. The organization uses eligible bottles in medical-supply shipments and recycles bottles it cannot use. Donors are responsible for removing labels and shipping costs if bottles are mailed. Before donating, review the organization’s current acceptance instructions: Matthew 25: Ministries Pill Bottle Program Do not send prescription medication to Matthew 25: Ministries; it accepts empty bottles, not prescription drugs. Recycling Options Most prescription bottles are made from #5 polypropylene, but their small size can make them difficult for sorting equipment to capture. As a result, many curbside programs do not accept them. Check with your local recycling provider. If accepted, bottles generally must be empty, clean, dry, and larger than the program’s minimum sorting size . For example, one local program advises that containers smaller than about 2 inches in diameter may not make it through automated sorting equipment and directs residents not to put orange, blue, or green prescription bottles in curbside recycling. Some solid-waste districts, pharmacies, mail-back programs, or specialty recyclers may collect empty pill bottles separately. Confirm that the program accepts prescription bottles specifically—not only medicine for disposal. Pharmacy Medication Kiosks Medication-disposal kiosks at participating pharmacies are for unused or expired medicines , not for recycling empty bottles. CVS, for example, accepts unwanted prescription and over-the-counter medications at participating pharmacy kiosks; the accepted items and hours vary by location. Contact your local pharmacy before visiting to confirm whether it offers: A medication take-back kiosk Medication mail-back envelopes Empty pill-bottle recycling Any other recycling or disposal service Safety and Legal Notice This information is for educational purposes only. Local donation and recycling rules vary. Remove all medication and personal information before donating or recycling a pill bottle, and confirm acceptance directly with the receiving organization or local recycling program.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Lithium Battery Disposal and Recycling Guide Lithium batteries, including lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, lithium-metal primary batteries, and battery-powered devices, should never be placed in household trash or curbside recycling. If crushed, punctured, overheated, or short-circuited, they can start fires and release hazardous materials. This guide applies to household batteries found in phones, laptops, tablets, power tools, wireless headphones, Bluetooth speakers, cameras, vapes, e-bikes, scooters, and similar products. Large electric-vehicle battery packs require separate professional handling. What to Do 1. Identify the battery type Common lithium batteries include: Lithium-ion batteries: Rechargeable batteries in phones, laptops, tablets, power tools, e-bikes, rechargeable vacuums, cameras, and Bluetooth devices. Lithium-polymer batteries: Rechargeable batteries often used in wireless headphones, drones, smart devices, and portable electronics. Lithium-metal batteries: Nonrechargeable batteries used in some cameras, medical devices, key fobs, sensors, and specialty equipment. Built-in batteries: Batteries sealed inside a device, such as a smartphone, tablet, portable speaker, vape, smart watch, or rechargeable tool. Check the battery label, device manual, packaging, or manufacturer website if you are unsure. 2. Keep lithium batteries out of trash and curbside recycling Do not place lithium batteries or battery-powered devices in: Household trash Curbside recycling bins Loose battery collection bins that do not specifically accept lithium batteries Metal containers with loose batteries Fire pits, fireplaces, or incinerators Lithium batteries can be damaged in garbage trucks, compactors, sorting equipment, and recycling facilities. EPA states that most end-of-life lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries may be hazardous waste because of their ignitability and reactivity. EPA Lithium Battery Recycling Regulatory Status and FAQs 3. Prepare batteries for drop-off Only prepare batteries if they are in good condition and the receiving facility instructs you to do so. For removable batteries: Cover exposed terminals with nonconductive tape, such as electrical tape. Place each battery in a separate plastic bag if requested by the collection site. Keep batteries away from keys, coins, tools, jewelry, and other metal objects. Store batteries temporarily in a cool, dry location away from heat, direct sunlight, children, pets, and flammable materials. Do not stack loose batteries together. Do not remove a built-in battery unless the manufacturer or recycling facility specifically instructs you to do so. Take the entire device to an electronics recycler or hazardous-waste program that accepts battery-containing electronics. 4. Handle damaged batteries differently A battery may be damaged if it is swollen, leaking, crushed, punctured, burned, hot, corroded, wet, has an unusual odor, makes hissing sounds, or is part of a recalled device. Do not place a damaged, defective, or recalled battery in a normal retail battery-recycling bin. Do not: Touch, crush, puncture, disassemble, charge, or attempt to repair the battery. Place it in household trash or curbside recycling. Put it in water, a freezer, or a sealed container unless directed by emergency personnel or the receiving facility. Mail or ship it unless an authorized program provides specific packaging and shipping instructions. Keep people away from the battery and contact your local household hazardous-waste facility, fire department nonemergency line, manufacturer, or a battery recycler that specifically accepts damaged batteries. If the battery is smoking, on fire, emitting sparks, becoming unusually hot, or creating an immediate danger, move people away from the area and call 911 or your local emergency number. 5. Where to take lithium batteries Good-condition household batteries For rechargeable household batteries in good condition, use: A local battery-recycling drop-off location A household hazardous-waste facility or collection event An electronics recycler that accepts batteries A participating retailer, if it confirms it accepts the battery type and size A manufacturer mail-back or take-back program The Battery Network, formerly Call2Recycle, offers a locator for battery collection sites in the United States and Canada. Before visiting, confirm that the site accepts your specific battery chemistry, size, weight, and condition. The Battery Network Drop-Off Locator Call2Recycle Drop-Off Locator Non-vehicle rechargeable batteries weighing less than 25 pounds and in good condition may be eligible for retail collection programs in some locations. Local rules and site acceptance vary. New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Lithium-Ion Battery Disposal Guidance E-bikes, e-scooters, and other large batteries E-bike, e-scooter, electric-moped, lawn-equipment, and other large lithium-ion batteries may not be accepted at regular retail battery drop-off boxes. Contact: The manufacturer or retailer The local household hazardous-waste program A specialized e-mobility battery collection program An electronics recycler that specifically accepts large-format lithium-ion batteries Ask whether the battery must remain in the device, whether an appointment is needed, and whether the battery is accepted if it is damaged or recalled. Electric-vehicle batteries Do not take an electric-vehicle battery pack to a household battery drop-off site. Contact the vehicle manufacturer, authorized dealer, EV repair facility, auto dismantler, insurer, or licensed EV battery recycler for instructions. EV battery packs are high-voltage systems and require professional evaluation, transport, and processing. 6. Where to get help Situation Contact Battery is smoking, on fire, sparking, very hot, or creating immediate danger Call 911 or your local emergency number Battery is swollen, leaking, damaged, defective, or recalled Local household hazardous-waste program, manufacturer, or a recycler that specifically accepts damaged batteries Battery is in a phone, laptop, tablet, speaker, tool, or other device Manufacturer, electronics recycler, or local household hazardous-waste facility Battery is from an e-bike, scooter, mower, or other large device Manufacturer, retailer, local hazardous-waste program, or specialized large-battery recycler Battery is from an electric vehicle Automaker, authorized dealer, EV repair facility, insurer, auto dismantler, or licensed EV battery recycler You need to find a local drop-off site The Battery Network or Call2Recycle locator, local solid-waste authority, or household hazardous-waste program For questions about battery collection and damaged-battery handling, The Battery Network provides consumer assistance and collection-location information. Contact its customer service at 1-888-224-9764 or use its website locator. The Battery Network Call2Recycle damaged, defective, and recalled battery guidance Key reminders Never place lithium batteries in household trash or curbside recycling. Do not remove built-in batteries unless instructed by the manufacturer or recycler. Cover exposed terminals on removable batteries if the receiving facility directs you to do so. Keep batteries away from heat, metal objects, and flammable materials. Do not use standard retail collection bins for swollen, leaking, crushed, hot, burned, or damaged batteries unless the site specifically accepts them. Use household hazardous-waste programs, electronics recyclers, manufacturer programs, or approved battery collection sites. Use professional guidance for e-bike, e-scooter, and electric-vehicle batteries. Sources and Resources U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Lithium Battery Recycling Regulatory Status and Frequently Asked Questions U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Used Household Batteries U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling Frequently Asked Questions The Battery Network, Find a Battery Drop-Off Location Call2Recycle, Drop-Off Locator Call2Recycle, Damaged, Defective, and Recalled Battery Guidance New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, How Do I Dispose of Lithium-Ion Batteries? Safety and Legal Notice Connecting The Dots Project provides this guide for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not legal, technical, safety, environmental, recycling, waste-management, transportation, hazardous-materials, or emergency-response advice. Battery collection rules, accepted battery types, size and weight limits, fees, preparation requirements, transportation restrictions, and recycling laws vary by location, battery condition, manufacturer, and receiving facility. Before transporting, recycling, or disposing of a lithium battery or battery-powered device, contact the manufacturer, local government or solid-waste authority, household hazardous-waste program, and receiving facility for current instructions. Do not open, dismantle, puncture, crush, burn, charge, repair, move, transport, or handle a swollen, leaking, damaged, defective, recalled, burned, or overheating battery unless you are trained, authorized, and specifically instructed to do so by the manufacturer, emergency personnel, or receiving facility. If a battery is smoking, on fire, emitting sparks, becoming unusually hot, or creating an immediate safety concern, move people away from the area and call 911 or your local emergency number. Do not attempt to open, puncture, move, or extinguish the battery unless directed by emergency responders. Mention of any company, retailer, recycler, program, certification, or organization is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement, affiliation, recommendation, or guarantee of acceptance, service quality, safety, or environmental performance. Connecting The Dots Project does not guarantee that this information is complete, current, accurate, or suitable for every battery or situation. Use of this guide is at the reader’s own risk.