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Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Jewelry and Watches Jewelry and watches are made from various materials, including metals, plastics, glass, and electronic components, making them difficult to recycle through standard curbside programs. However, there are several ways to sell, repurpose, recycle, or dispose of them responsibly . Selling & Reuse Options: 💰 Sell to Jewelers & Metal Buyers – Many jewelry stores, pawn shops, and gold buyers purchase unwanted jewelry for precious metal refining (gold, silver, platinum). ⌚ Sell or Trade Watches – High-quality watches, especially luxury brands, can be sold through watch resellers, online marketplaces, or pawn shops . Some brands also offer trade-in programs . 🛍 Online Marketplaces – Consider selling valuable or vintage jewelry on platforms like eBay, Poshmark, Facebook Marketplace, or specialized resale sites . Recycling & Repurposing Options: ♻️ Jewelry Stores & Metal Recyclers – Jewelers and metal refiners can melt down gold, silver, and platinum for reuse in new pieces. ⌚ Watch Repair Shops – Some jewelers and watch repair shops accept old watches for refurbishing or parts salvaging to extend their lifespan. 🔋 Electronics Recycling (Smartwatches & Digital Watches) – Digital and smartwatches contain lithium batteries and electronic components . Use e-waste recycling programs or manufacturers’ take-back programs (e.g., Apple, Samsung, Garmin). 🎁 Donation & Upcycling – If in good condition, jewelry and watches can be donated to charities, thrift stores, shelters, or programs like Dress for Success . 🛠 Repurpose for Crafts – Broken or outdated jewelry can be transformed into DIY projects, art, or new accessories instead of being discarded. Disposal: 🗑 Non-recyclable Costume Jewelry – If jewelry is made of mixed, non-precious materials (e.g., plastic-based costume jewelry) and cannot be reused, repaired, or donated , disposal in the trash may be necessary. Key Takeaways: ✅ Sell or trade valuable jewelry and watches through jewelers, resellers, or online marketplaces.✅ Recycle precious metals through jewelers or metal refiners.✅ Use e-waste programs for digital and smartwatches.✅ Donate or upcycle unwanted jewelry to extend its life.✅ Avoid discarding jewelry whenever possible —recycling and repurposing help reduce waste and conserve materials. By selling, recycling, or reusing jewelry and watches, we can reduce waste, conserve valuable materials , and promote sustainability! ♻️✨

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Recycling & Disposal Guide: Plush Toys Recycling & Disposal Options: ✅ Best Disposal Options: Donate (If in Good Condition) Many charities, shelters, thrift stores, and children's hospitals accept gently used plush toys. Some organizations, like Stuffed Animals for Emergencies (SAFE) , distribute plush toys to children in need. Toy Recycling Programs Companies like TerraCycle offer recycling programs for plush toys. Some toy manufacturers have take-back programs—check with the brand. Upcycle or Repurpose Use as pet toys (if safe for pets). Transform into DIY pillows, cushions, or keychains. Remove stuffing for craft projects or insulation material. 🚫 Not Accepted in Curbside Recycling: Plush toys are made of mixed materials (fabric, plastic, stuffing), making them non-recyclable in regular curbside bins. 🗑 Trash Disposal (As Last Resort) If the toy is too damaged or contains electronics, dispose of it as general waste. For electronic plush toys , remove batteries and recycle them separately. Important Notes & Warnings: ⚠ Hygiene concerns: Many donation centers only accept clean plush toys—wash before donating.⚠ No curbside recycling: Even if made of fabric, most plush toys are not recyclable with textiles.⚠ Check for electronic components: Remove and recycle batteries or circuit boards separately.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal of Biohazard Materials Biohazard materials are substances that pose a risk to human health or the environment due to their biological nature. These materials can include: Examples of Biohazardous Materials: Medical Waste: Used needles, syringes, lancets, bandages, gloves, and other contaminated items. Blood and Bodily Fluids: Human or animal blood, tissues, and fluids that may carry infectious diseases. Microbiological Waste: Lab cultures, specimens, bacteria, viruses, and fungi used in medical or research settings. Sharps Waste: Needles, scalpels, broken glassware, and other items that can puncture or cut skin. Animal Waste: Contaminated bedding, carcasses, or tissues from animals used in research. Biological Toxins: Harmful substances produced by microorganisms, plants, or animals (e.g., botulinum toxin). Disposal & Handling Precautions: Proper Containment: Biohazard waste should be disposed of in clearly labeled, leak-proof, and puncture-resistant containers. Autoclaving: Many biohazardous materials can be sterilized using heat and pressure before disposal. Incineration: Some medical waste facilities burn biohazardous waste to prevent contamination. Follow Local Regulations: Disposal rules vary by location—always check with local hazardous waste management services. For proper disposal of biohazard materials, individuals and businesses should contact the following: Who to Contact for Biohazard Waste Disposal: Local Health Department – They provide regulations and guidelines on safe disposal practices. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – The EPA oversees hazardous waste disposal and offers resources for biohazardous waste management. EPA Hazardous Waste Info Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) – Provides regulations for handling biohazards in workplaces. OSHA Biohazard Standards State or Local Hazardous Waste Disposal Services – Many cities and counties have hazardous waste collection programs. Check with your local waste management agency. Medical Waste Disposal Companies – Private companies specialize in the collection, transport, and disposal of medical and biohazardous waste. Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities – They often have disposal programs or can provide guidance on where to take medical waste. Police or Fire Departments – In some areas, they provide sharps and medical waste disposal services.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back Upcycled smartphones to combat illegal deforestation A Silicon Valley non-profit, Rainforest Connection, founded by physicist and engineer Topher White, repurposes discarded smartphones to combat illegal deforestation, halt animal poaching, and enable bio-acoustic monitoring in the rainforests of Africa and the Amazon. According to their website, their products have been monitoring 406 thousand hectares in 106 reservations in 35 countries. Incredible! photo by Rainforest Connection This forest-monitoring innovation, known as 'Forest Guardians,' originated in 2012 with the concept of repurposing recycled, solar-powered cellphones equipped with artificial intelligence software to oversee and assess the activities and biodiversity of the surrounding environment. Solar-powered phones are placed high in the tree canopy, where they listen for the sounds of chainsaws and alert authorities via existing cellphone networks in real time when illegal activity is detected. Each phone can protect up to one square mile of forest. The technology addresses the urgent need for forest conservation in the face of widespread deforestation. Rainforest Connection has successfully tested the technology in Sumatra and is now expanding its efforts to Africa and the Amazon with the help of local law enforcement and conservation groups. The initiative also aims to engage the public through an app that allows people worldwide to listen to rainforest sounds and receive real-time alerts. Ultimately, Rainforest Connection hopes to promote sustainable economic alternatives to illegal activities in the rainforest while protecting these critical ecosystems. Sources: https://rfcx.org/ https://www.smithsonianmag.com/.../how-solar-powered.../ *All the photos are from the Forest Connection's website.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Furniture Recycling and repurposing furniture depends on its material, condition, and local disposal options. Here are the best ways to handle unwanted furniture: 1. Recycling Options Wood Furniture : Solid wood furniture can be recycled into wood chips or repurposed into new furniture. Treated wood may require special disposal. Metal Furniture : Metal components (e.g., steel or aluminum frames) can be taken to scrap metal recycling centers . Plastic Furniture : Check for resin identification codes . Some plastics (like HDPE or PP) may be accepted at plastics recycling facilities . Upholstered Furniture : Some areas accept cushions and fabric for textile recycling , but most municipal recycling programs do not accept them. 2. Repurposing & Donation Sell or Donate : Many charities (e.g., Habitat for Humanity ReStores, Goodwill, local shelters) accept gently used furniture. Upcycling : Old furniture can be refinished, painted, or reupholstered for a fresh look. Creative Reuse : Wooden chairs → Wall shelves or plant stands Dressers → Kitchen islands or TV stands Old doors → Tabletops or headboards 3. Responsible Disposal Bulk Waste Pickup : Some cities offer scheduled curbside furniture pickup. Eco-Friendly Junk Removal : Companies like 1-800-GOT-JUNK? or local haulers may recycle or donate usable pieces. Donate If the furniture is in a good-vintage condition, you can certainly donate it to a local shop or charity. Other option is give it away to someone who can use it. On Buy Nothing or Craiglist, communities, there are so many furniture given away daily. Sell it There are so many online marketplaces from which you can sell or buy furniture. Here are the list: 1. Craiglist 2. Facebook Market Place 3. Offer Up 4. eBay 5. Etsy Upcycle If you are handy, DIY and upcycling are definitely a great and fun option. There are many inspiring ideas posted on Etsy and Pinterest for inspirations and ideas. Repair and Restoration There are many furniture repair shops. Many valuable vintage furniture are well preserved because of the good maintenance and up-keep. Key Tip: Always check local recycling and donation programs for specific guidelines!

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Recycling & Donation Guide: Pens, Markers, Crayons, Watercolor Paints, and Brushes Nonprofit Organizations That Accept Donations of School & Art Supplies 📌 The Crayon Initiative – Accepts used crayons, melts them down, and donates new crayons to children’s hospitals. 📌 Crazy Crayons / National Crayon Recycle Program – Recycles crayons into new ones. 📌 The Kids In Need Foundation (KINF) – Provides free school supplies, including pens, markers, and crayons, to underserved schools. 📌 Art Feeds – Accepts donations of art supplies for children’s creative education. 📌 SCARCE (School & Community Assistance for Recycling and Composting Education) – Accepts used school and art supplies to redistribute to teachers and students. 📌 Local Schools & Community Centers – Many schools, after-school programs, and community art programs accept gently used art supplies. Recycling & Disposal Options: ✅ Best Recycling & Disposal Methods: Pens & Markers TerraCycle Writing Instruments Recycling Program – Accepts used pens, markers, and mechanical pencils. Some office supply stores (e.g., Staples) may also offer drop-off recycling. BIC & TerraCycle Free Recycling Program – A specific program for BIC-branded pens, markers, and highlighters. Consider refillable pens and markers to reduce waste. Crayons The Crayon Initiative – Collects and recycles old crayons, melting them down to create new crayons for children's hospitals. Crazy Crayons/National Crayon Recycle Program – Recycles old crayons into new ones. Donate gently used crayons to local schools, daycare centers, or nonprofit art programs . Watercolor Paints & Brushes Water-based paints (like children's watercolor sets) can be safely washed down the drain when finished. Acrylic or oil paints require proper disposal via local hazardous waste programs . Brushes in good condition can be donated to art therapy programs, community art centers, or school art programs . 🚫 Not Accepted in Curbside Recycling: Pens, markers, crayons, and most art supplies contain mixed materials (plastic, wax, ink) and cannot go in regular curbside bins. 🗑 Trash Disposal (If No Other Option) If no recycling program is available, pens, markers, and crayons should go in regular trash. Paint brushes that are too damaged for reuse should also be disposed of in the trash. Important Notes & Warnings: ⚠ Check paint type —oil-based and acrylic paints may require special hazardous waste disposal. ⚠ Avoid throwing away markers or pens —they take years to decompose in landfills. ⚠ Look for refillable options —refillable markers, pens, and paint palettes reduce waste.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back What are microplastics? Microplastics are the most prevalent environmental pollutants which are found in waterbodies, air, and soil. As the name implies, micro plastics are technically defined as particles less than 5 mm in diameter. There are 2 categories of micro-plastics: primary and secondary. Primary micro plastics are tiny plastics designed for commercial use, such as micro fiber of synthetic textiles, micro beads in cosmetics, pellets used for industrial manufacturings, and etc. Secondary microplastics are particles that result from the breakdown of any plastic materials. Additionally, nanoplastics are a subcategory of secondary microplastics defined as particles with a size ranging between 1 nm and 1 μm. The transformation or breakdowns of larger plastic products into microplastics typically happens when plastics degrade, get weathered, used by humans, or undergo manufacturing processes. Then natural weathering process plastics even further through exposure to ultraviolet radiation from sunlight, wave action, and wind abrasion. Naturally, plastics continuously get shredded and fragmented into smaller and smaller in passage of time and possibly turn into fibers, particles, and dusts so small that they easily become absorbed or dispersed into environments and human bodies .

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Historic First Space Littering Fine Issued Picture by NASA In our relentless pursuit of technological convenience, we often overlook the unintended consequences. One such consequence is the alarming rise of pollution in space. Btw, have you ever heard of the Kessler Syndrome? It's a theoretical scenario that space scientists and orbital mechanics experts warn about, envisioning a catastrophic chain reaction of collisions and debris generation in Earth's low Earth orbit (LEO) due to a growing field of space debris and satellites. Well, a recent event has brought this issue into sharp focus. The United States government recently took a groundbreaking step in addressing this concern. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) imposed its VERY FIRST FINE on a company for failing to properly manage space junk within Earth's orbit. Dish Network, a prominent player in the satellite television industry, found itself at the center of this historic development. The FCC fined Dish Network a sum of $150,000 for its failure to move an old satellite, EchoStar-7, a safe distance away from active satellites, thereby creating a collision risk. Dish Network accepted liability and entered into an agreement with the FCC to rectify the situation. Before diving into the details of this landmark fine, it's important to grasp the concept of space junk, also referred to as space debris. These are the remnants of defunct satellites and discarded spacecraft components that continue to orbit our planet. The proliferation of space debris has reached a critical point, and it poses significant threats to operational satellites and future space missions. The FCC's decision to fine Dish Network serves as a stark reminder of the ever-increasing concerns surrounding space debris and the growing risks of collisions in space. Space debris has become a formidable challenge. Over 10,000 satellites have been launched into space, and more than half of them are no longer in active use. The space debris levels have increased 50% in the last five years in low orbit. This trend has contributed to an exponential increase in space debris and the associated collision risks. While the benefits of these satellites and their technology are undeniable, we must also consider the environmental impact they leave behind. This report isn't about finger-pointing; it's a rallying cry to develop strategies for debris removal and responsible space management. Like our efforts to combat pollution and climate change on Earth, we face a similar challenge in space. While solving it may seem out of reach, raising awareness of the consequences of our daily conveniences is a vital first step. Who knows, you, a family member, or a friend might invent the solution one day? It all begins with awareness. Resources: https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-66993647 https://www.smithsonianmag.com/.../in-a-first-the-fcc.../ https://www.spacecentre.co.uk/.../the-kessler-syndrome/

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back The Real Reasons Why You Need House Plants Many people may have heard the common notion that plants produce oxygen and as a result, people began buying plants with the intent of filtering the air. The only issue here is house plants don't filter enough air. In 2019, Bryan E. Cummings and Michael S. Waring published their studies which showed that in order to filter a room with plants at the same level as pre-existing outdoor-to-indoor air exchange in a typical building, each square meter of space needed 10-1000 plants. All in all, plants do remove VOCs1, just not enough in a household to be considered a reliable filter. Though houseplants aren’t the most effective filter, don’t let that be the reason you don’t have plants in your house. Plants still produce a myriad of health benefits some of which are still being explored deeper. A few include… In conclusion, plants may not be as great of a filter as the common notion may suggest, however, they still hold great health benefits that should encourage you to keep plants in your household. A great beginner guide to plants is Jenny Raworth and Val Bradley’s book, Click HERE to access their complete guide! If you want to read more on the importance of air quality and how to maintain it, click HERE 1: Volatile Organic Compounds 2: Serotonin is a hormone in your body that influences your mood, sleep, bone health, and more. 3: Pathogens are viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites that invade the body and can cause health issues. ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back Tumbler Composting Tumbler Composting Tumbler composting is a method of composting that uses a rotating bin (compost tumbler) to speed up decomposition by improving aeration and mixing. Unlike traditional compost piles, a tumbler keeps the compost contained, making it a cleaner and more efficient process. How It Works: Fill the Tumbler – Add a balanced mix of greens (fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds) and browns (dry leaves, cardboard, wood chips). Rotate Regularly – Turn the tumbler a few times every few days to mix materials and introduce oxygen, which speeds up decomposition. Monitor Moisture & Temperature – Keep the compost damp (not too wet or dry), and ensure warmth for faster breakdown. Harvest the Compost – In a few weeks to a few months, rich, dark compost will be ready to use in your garden. Benefits of Tumbler Composting: ✔ Fast Decomposition – Frequent mixing and aeration speed up the process.✔ Pest & Odor Control – A sealed container keeps out rodents and minimizes smells.✔ Compact & Space-Saving – Great for urban areas, patios, and small gardens.✔ Easy to Use – Less effort required compared to turning a traditional compost pile with a fork. Challenges: Limited Capacity – Can’t handle large amounts of organic waste at once. Moisture Control Needed – Too much or too little water can slow decomposition. Requires Regular Turning – Needs to be rotated to work effectively. Tumbler composting is an excellent choice for those looking for a neat, efficient, and beginner-friendly way to compost at home! Let me know if you need help choosing a compost tumbler. 😊

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Recycling & Disposal of Security Cameras and Alarm Systems (e.g., ADT, Arlo, Ring, Abode) Security cameras and alarm systems like ADT , Arlo , Ring , Abode , and other smart systems contain electronic components , batteries , plastic , and metal , all of which must be disposed of properly to avoid environmental harm and health risks. 1. Recycling Options E-Waste Recycling Centers : Many local e-waste recycling programs accept security cameras and alarm system devices, ensuring that the electronic components are safely processed and materials are recovered. Retail Take-Back Programs : Some retailers (e.g., Best Buy , Staples , Home Depot ) offer electronics recycling bins where you can drop off your security cameras, alarm systems, and other electronics. Manufacturer Recycling Programs : Ring : Offers a trade-in program through Amazon, where older Ring devices can be recycled or refurbished. Arlo : May provide guidance or mail-in programs for recycling security systems. ADT : Contact ADT customer service for potential recycling or disposal programs. Abode : May provide disposal guidance through their website or customer service. Battery Recycling : Security systems often contain lithium-ion batteries that should be taken to hazardous waste facilities or battery recycling centers (e.g., Call2Recycle ). 2. Responsible Disposal Factory Reset & Data Removal : Before disposal or recycling , make sure to wipe all personal data from the device, including factory resets for cameras and alarm systems to protect your privacy. Remove Batteries : Lithium-ion batteries must be removed from the system before recycling. Take them to a battery recycling facility or your local hazardous waste collection site . Disassemble Components : If possible, separate plastic, metal, and battery components before recycling. This ensures that each material is properly processed and reduces contamination in the recycling stream. 3. Sustainable Alternatives Donate or Sell : If your system is still functional, consider donating it to a local charity, school, or community center. You can also sell it through platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist to extend its useful life. Repurpose : Older cameras or sensors can be repurposed for alternative uses such as wildlife observation , baby monitors , or DIY surveillance projects . 4. Do Not Dispose Of If… Broken or Damaged : If your security system or cameras are broken or severely damaged, especially the electronic components or batteries, check with your local hazardous waste facility for proper disposal. Battery Leakage or Damage : If the battery is leaking or shows signs of wear, do not dispose of it in regular trash or curbside recycling. Take it to a hazardous waste or battery recycling center . ⚠ Important Safety Warning ⚠ Removal and disposal of security cameras and alarm systems (including their electrical and battery components) can be dangerous if not handled correctly. Please follow all local regulations for recycling or disposal. DO NOT attempt to dismantle or remove components without professional assistance, especially when dealing with batteries or electrical components. Connecting The Dots Project will not be responsible for any damage, loss, injury, emotional damage, or harm that occurs during the disposal, recycling, or donation process of security cameras, alarm systems, or any other items.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Honoring Mr. Alfie Date A man who knitted sweaters for penguins after oil spill Australia's oldest man at that point in time, who passed away at the age of 110 in 2016, had always enjoyed knitting since 1932. A few hours after being placed in a retirement home, he learned about Knits for Nature, a program that collects jumpers (sweaters)for little penguins (only about 33cm tall) that are suffering from oil spills in Phillip Island Nature Park in Australia. Mr. Alfie Date did not waste any time and chose to start knitting jumpers . These garments serve as a protective barrier, preventing the penguins from ingesting toxic oil while preening feathers until rescue staff can wash them clean. Besides the potential fatality from ingestion, the oil also harms their delicate feathers, leaving their skin exposed to cold temperatures. This distressing situation leaves the penguins feeling cold, burdened, and unable to swim or hunt for food. The jumpers serve as temporary relief and are eventually removed from the penguins once they are completely cleaned. Penguin Foundation Officer Lauren Barker told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation in a 2019 interview. "Thankfully, 96 percent of them were successfully released, and penguin rehabilitation jumpers played quite a big part in that." Meanwhile, a dispute has arisen over the practice. In a blog boldly titled "Why Sweaters on Birds are Bad," posted on the website of the renowned California-based International Bird Rescue in October 2011, director Emeritus Jay Holcomb criticized the practice, arguing that the sweaters stress out the birds, hinder their ability to thermoregulate, and cause more damage by pressing the oil against the birds' skin. We have not yet found studies that validate either side of the claims if using a sweater as a temporary protection would be harmful to the bird or not. Sources: https://time.com/3706927/australia-penguin-sweaters/ https://penguinfoundation.org.au/ https://www.samaritanmag.com/animals/knitting-sweaters-oil-slicked-penguins-not-good-birds ←Previous Next→