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Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of Acrylic Paint Acrylic paint, commonly used for arts and crafts projects, is a popular medium due to its versatility, quick drying time, and ease of use. However, like all paints, it must be disposed of carefully to minimize its environmental impact. Acrylic paints contain a variety of chemicals, including pigments and binders, and while they are generally water-based and less toxic than oil paints, improper disposal can still harm the environment. What You Should Know About Acrylic Paint: Water-Based : Acrylic paint is typically water-based, meaning it can be cleaned up with water when still wet. Once dry, however, it becomes water-resistant and harder to remove. Non-Toxic : Most acrylic paints are non-toxic, but certain pigments and additives may contain harmful chemicals like lead, cadmium, or other heavy metals. Always check the labels for any hazardous warnings. Disposal Methods: 1. Disposal of Paint Containers and Leftover Paint: Avoid Dumping in Drains or Trash : Never pour leftover acrylic paint down the drain or throw it in the trash, as it can contaminate water systems or landfill sites. 2. Recycling Empty Paint Containers: Recycle the Containers: Empty paint containers that do not have any paint residue can be recycled in most curbside recycling programs. Ensure the container is free of paint before recycling. 3. Disposal of Leftover Paint: Use It Up : The best option is to use up any leftover paint for another project. This minimizes waste and ensures you're not disposing of unused materials. Dry It Out : If you have a small amount of leftover paint and don't plan to use it again, allow it to dry out completely in the container. Once it's solidified, it can be disposed of with regular trash. To speed up the drying process, you can add sand, cat litter, or newspaper to the paint to help it absorb moisture and harden faster. 4 For Larger Amounts of Paint: Check for Local Hazardous Waste Collection Events: Some localities host hazardous waste collection events that accept materials like leftover paint. This is especially useful for those who have large amounts of leftover paint to dispose of safely. 5. Commercial Paint Disposal Services: Contact Paint Retailers or Disposal Services : Some home improvement stores offer paint recycling services or will accept unused paint. These services may collect paints that can be repurposed, recycled, or properly disposed of. 6. Proper Disposal of Paintbrushes and Tools: Clean Brushes with Water : Since acrylic paint is water-based, cleaning brushes and tools with warm water and soap is usually sufficient. Try to clean brushes thoroughly before disposal. Avoid Throwing Away Brushes with Paint : If you need to dispose of a paintbrush or tool with acrylic paint still on it, check with local waste management services to ensure you are following proper disposal guidelines. In some cases, you may need to dispose of them as household hazardous waste. Recycling Acrylic Paint: While acrylic paint itself is not commonly recyclable due to the nature of the chemicals it contains, the empty paint containers (such as plastic tubs or metal cans) can often be recycled, provided they are clean and free of paint residue. Recycling the Container : Most paint containers are made from plastic or metal, both of which are typically recyclable. However, they must be cleaned thoroughly to avoid contamination in the recycling stream. If there is still paint residue, rinse it out with water before placing it in the recycling bin. Some local recycling centers also accept small amounts of paint residue if the container is thoroughly cleaned. Key Takeaways: Do not dump acrylic paint in drains or trash. Always dispose of it responsibly. Use up leftovers or dry it out for disposal with regular trash. Recycle empty containers , ensuring they are free of paint. Check with local disposal or recycling centers for special events or services for paint disposal.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of TVs and Speakers Televisions (TVs) Recycling : Electronics Recycling Centers : Most televisions, especially older models (like CRT TVs), should not be disposed of in regular trash. They often contain harmful materials, such as lead, mercury, and other toxic substances. Instead, take them to certified electronics recycling centers where they can be broken down and recycled responsibly. Manufacturer Take-Back Programs : Many TV manufacturers offer take-back programs where you can return your old TV for proper recycling. Check the brand’s website or customer service for more information. Donation : Working TVs : If the TV is still in working condition, consider donating it to local charities, thrift stores, or non-profit organizations. Many schools, shelters, or community centers may accept working used TVs. Retailer Recycling : Some large electronics retailers like Best Buy offer free TV recycling programs. Check with local stores to see if they accept old electronics for recycling. Hazardous Waste : Special Disposal : Older TVs, especially CRT models, contain hazardous materials. Ensure that your local recycling program handles these items appropriately and safely, as improper disposal can harm the environment. Speakers Recycling : Electronics Recycling : Many local recycling centers accept speakers along with other electronic waste. Speakers often contain valuable metals (such as copper and aluminum) that can be recycled. Certified E-Waste Facilities : Look for certified e-waste recycling programs that handle the recycling of electronic components, including speakers, in an environmentally safe way. Donation : Donating Working Speakers : If the speakers are still functional, consider donating them to schools, libraries, or non-profits that may benefit from audio equipment. Online Platforms : You can also consider donating or selling speakers through online platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or Freecycle to find someone who could make use of them. Retailer Take-Back Programs : Some electronics retailers offer trade-in or recycling programs for speakers, where you can return them for proper disposal or recycling. Disposal : If the speaker is no longer usable, check with local waste management centers to see if they accept them as part of your curbside electronics recycling program. If not, they should be taken to an e-waste recycling center. Important Notes : Avoid Landfills : Never dispose of your old TV or speakers in regular household trash as they contain materials harmful to the environment. Always look for responsible recycling options. Check Local Regulations : Disposal options for TVs and speakers may vary depending on your location. Some areas have specific guidelines for recycling e-waste. Data Destruction : If your speakers or TV have any memory or storage capabilities (e.g., smart TVs), ensure any personal data is erased before disposal or recycling. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your old TVs and speakers are disposed of in an environmentally friendly and safe manner.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Plastic Clamshell Produce Containers Recycling & Disposal ✅ Recyclable (Sometimes): Some recycling programs accept clear plastic clamshell containers made of PET #1 (check for the recycling symbol on the bottom). Must be clean and dry before recycling— remove food residue, stickers, and labels . Check with your local recycling guidelines as many facilities do not accept clamshells due to their brittle nature and contamination risks. 🚫 Not Accepted in Many Curbside Programs: Many facilities do not recycle clamshell containers because their thin, brittle plastic can break easily and contaminate the recycling stream. Colored, black, or compostable plastic clamshells are rarely accepted in regular plastic recycling programs. ⚠ Disposal & Alternatives: Check for specialty recycling programs (e.g., TerraCycle or local grocery store drop-offs). Reuse for storage, seed starters, or crafts before disposal. If no recycling options are available, dispose of them in the trash . ♻ Better Alternatives: Buy loose produce instead of pre-packaged items. Bring reusable produce bags to the store to reduce plastic waste.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Prescription pill bottles are typically orange (amber) because the color helps protect medications from ultraviolet (UV) light, which can degrade their potency over time. The amber hue filters out harmful UV rays while still allowing enough visible light to see the contents inside. Beyond light protection, the orange bottle has become a recognizable standard for prescription medications, helping differentiate them from over-the-counter drugs. The white child-resistant caps further enhance safety by reducing the risk of accidental ingestion by children. While orange is the most common color, some medications require specialized bottles in other colors—such as blue, green, or red—to provide additional protection based on the drug's light sensitivity or storage needs. Recycling & Donation Programs Donation Programs : Some organizations, like Matthew 25: Ministries , accept clean, label-free prescription bottles to distribute medications in developing countries where proper packaging is scarce. Pharmacy Recycling Bins : Major pharmacy chains, including Walgreens and CVS, often have disposable bins for safe recycling of pill bottles—check with your local store for details. Curbside Recycling : Some municipal recycling programs accept prescription bottles, but many do not due to their small size and plastic type (#5 polypropylene) . Check with your local recycling provider to confirm eligibility. Terracycle’s Zero Waste Box : TerraCycle offers a paid mail-in recycling program for prescription bottles and other hard-to-recycle plastics.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Microplastic fibers to the stratosphere The stratosphere extends from roughly 12 to 50 kilometers (7.5 to 31 miles) above Earth's surface Recent research by scientists from the University of Vienna and the Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization in Göttingen has revealed that the shape of microplastic particles significantly influences their atmospheric travel distances. Unlike spherical particles, which tend to settle quickly, microplastic fibers can ascend to the stratosphere, potentially impacting global ecosystems. The study, published in Environmental Science & Technology , combined laboratory experiments with model simulations to assess how microplastic fibers behave in the atmosphere. Researchers discovered that these fibers settle substantially slower than spherical particles of the same mass, allowing them to be transported over vast distances. Fibers up to 1.5 millimeters in length were found to reach some of the most remote areas on Earth, including the stratosphere. This finding helps explain the presence of microplastics in isolated regions like Arctic glaciers and ice sheets, where atmospheric transport is the only plausible delivery mechanism. The study underscores the need for further research into the environmental implications of microplastics in the atmosphere, particularly concerning their potential effects on climate and ecosystems. The researchers emphasize that understanding the dynamics of microplastic fibers in the atmosphere is crucial for developing effective strategies to mitigate their environmental impact. This study provides a foundation for future investigations into the role of microplastics in atmospheric processes and their broader ecological consequences. Resources: More information: Daria Tatsii et al, Shape Matters: Long-Range Transport of Microplastic Fibers in the Atmosphere, Environmental Science & Technology (2023). DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c08209 Journal information: Environmental Science & Technology phys.org

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards ✅ Accepted Computer & Electronic Items for Recycling Most e-waste recycling centers accept: 🖥️ Computers & Accessories Desktops & laptops Keyboards & mice Monitors (LCD, LED) Hard drives & storage devices RAM & computer components 📡 Networking & Peripherals Modems & routers Servers & data center equipment External hard drives Cables & power adapters 🖨️ Office Equipment Printers & scanners Fax machines Copiers Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) 📱 Mobile & Smart Devices Smartphones & tablets Smartwatches E-readers 🎧 Audio & Video Equipment Speakers & headphones Microphones & webcams ♻️ Batteries (Depending on Facility) Laptop & computer batteries Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries ⚠️ Important Notes: ✅ Erase Personal Data – Before recycling, wipe all personal information from computers, hard drives, and mobile devices.✅ Check Local Rules – Some facilities may have restrictions on certain items (e.g., CRT monitors, lithium-ion batteries).✅ Look for Trade-In Programs – Some manufacturers (Apple, Dell, HP) offer trade-in or recycling programs for old computers and electronics. 🛑 Items NOT Accepted in Computer Recycling (Varies by Facility) Most facilities do NOT accept:🚫 Household Appliances (Microwaves, refrigerators)🚫 CRT Monitors & TVs (Some locations require special disposal)🚫 Hazardous Waste (Paint, chemicals, radioactive materials)🚫 Floppy Disks, CDs/DVDs (Check with local e-waste programs)🚫 Loose Batteries (May require separate battery recycling) ⚠️ Important Notes: 🛑 Do NOT throw electronics in regular trash – They contain toxic materials like lead, mercury, and cadmium.🛑 Check for Manufacturer Take-Back Programs – Some companies offer free or discounted recycling services.🛑 Donate if Still Functional – Schools, nonprofits, and refurbishing programs may accept working electronics. Would you like help finding a local e-waste recycling center? ♻️💻

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Red Honey, Maraschino Cherries, and a Secret Marijuana Empire in Brooklyn New York City’s history is full of bizarre stories, but few are as strange as the saga of Dell’s Maraschino Cherries—a tale that involves beekeepers, red honey, a hidden drug empire, and a tragic ending. In 2010, beekeepers in Red Hook, Brooklyn, noticed their bees returning with oddly colored stripes and producing bright red honey. After ruling out potential sources like MTA depots and toxic chemicals, they discovered the cause: the bees were feeding on runoff from Dell’s Maraschino Cherry Company, which used Red Dye 40 in its processing. Rather than facing major consequences, the factory’s owner, Arthur Mondella, took expert advice to secure his waste, and the problem disappeared. However, long-standing rumors suggested something more was happening behind the factory’s walls. In 2015, authorities raided Dell’s factory, initially investigating illegal wastewater dumping. During the search, they discovered a false wall and the smell of marijuana. As police prepared to obtain a warrant to search further, Mondella excused himself, locked himself in a bathroom, and tragically took his own life. When investigators finally searched the hidden space, they uncovered a massive 2,500-square-foot marijuana operation—the largest indoor grow in New York City at the time—complete with high-end cultivation equipment, luxury cars, and stacks of cash. Sources: nypost.com arthur mondella | New York Post www.newyorker.com The Maraschino Mogul’s Secret Life Ian Frazier on how Arthur Mondella’s Brooklyn-based cherry factory mysteriously turned Red Hook’s bees red, in 2010.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of Planter Soil, Fertilizer, Perlite, and Pebbles for Houseplants Planter Soil Reuse or Compost : Composting : If the soil is still in good condition, you can compost it. Soiled plants (free of disease and pests) can be added to a compost pile. This method helps enrich the soil over time. Reuse : If the soil isn’t contaminated with chemicals or pests, it can be reused in other pots or for garden planting. Refresh it with new soil or compost for better growth. Disposal : Trash : If you can’t reuse or compost the soil, it should be disposed of in the trash. However, avoid dumping it directly into natural environments like parks, as it may contain pests or pathogens that could harm local ecosystems. Fertilizer Disposal : Empty Containers : If you have an empty fertilizer container, check the label for specific disposal instructions. Many containers can be recycled, but always make sure they are completely empty and dry. Unused Fertilizer : If you have unused fertilizer, check with local waste disposal centers or hazardous waste facilities. Fertilizers may contain chemicals that could be harmful if mishandled, so it’s essential to dispose of them properly. Hazardous Waste : Special Disposal : Some fertilizers, particularly chemical-based ones, should be considered hazardous waste. Contact your local waste management or hazardous waste center for instructions on safe disposal. Perlite and Pebbles Reuse : Reuse for Plants : Perlite and pebbles can often be reused. If you’ve removed them from one plant pot, they can be used again in other pots or to improve drainage in garden beds. Composting : Perlite, which is a volcanic mineral, does not decompose in compost. However, if you have pebbles or small stones, they can be added to your compost bin as long as they are clean. Disposal : Trash : If perlite and pebbles are no longer usable, they can generally be disposed of in the trash. Since perlite is a natural mineral, it won’t harm the environment in a landfill, but it does take up space. Recycling : If the perlite or pebbles are in a container (like plastic bags or packaging), check with your local recycling program to see if it’s recyclable. However, perlite itself generally isn’t recyclable. Important Notes: Do Not Dump Outdoors : Avoid disposing of planter soil, fertilizer, or pebbles in outdoor environments like parks or rivers, as these materials can introduce non-native pests or chemicals to the ecosystem. Check Local Regulations : Disposal and recycling guidelines can vary by location, especially for items like fertilizers. Always check your local waste management guidelines to ensure you're following the proper procedures. By following these tips, you can help reduce waste while managing your plant care items in an environmentally responsible manner.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards ✅ Aerosol Cans (Hairspray, Deodorant, Cooking Spray, Paint, etc.) ♻️ Recycling Options: Most aerosol cans are made of aluminum or steel , which are widely accepted in curbside recycling —BUT they must be completely empty . Remove the plastic cap before recycling. 🛑 Special Disposal for Hazardous Contents: Partially full or pressurized cans (like spray paint, pesticides, or chemicals) are hazardous waste and must be taken to a HHW facility . Propellant-based cans (such as certain air fresheners) should also be handled through hazardous waste programs. 🚫 Do Not Puncture or Crush Aerosol cans can explode if not properly emptied before recycling. By following these disposal and recycling methods, you can safely and responsibly manage plastic spray bottles and aerosol cans! 🌍♻️

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal & Recycling of Shampoo, Soap, & Conditioner Bottles Shampoo, soap, and conditioner bottles are typically made of plastic (HDPE #2 or PET #1 ) and are often recyclable. However, proper preparation is essential to ensure they are accepted in recycling programs. Recycling Options: ♻️ Curbside Recycling: Most curbside programs accept empty and rinsed-out plastic bottles with caps on . Check local guidelines for specific rules.♻️ Retail Drop-Off: Some beauty brands and stores (like TerraCycle, L’Occitane, and Garnier ) offer take-back programs for empty beauty product containers.♻️ Specialty Recycling Programs: Organizations like PACT Collective accept hard-to-recycle beauty containers. Disposal: 🗑 Trash Bin (If Not Recyclable): If the bottle is made from non-recyclable plastic (#3, #5 , #7 ) or contains leftover product, it may need to go in the trash. Preparation Before Recycling: ✔ Empty and Rinse: Leftover residue can contaminate recycling batches.✔ Leave Cap On: Small caps can get lost in recycling machinery, so it’s best to leave them attached to the bottle.✔ Remove Pumps: Pump dispensers often contain metal springs and should be removed before recycling. Eco-Friendly Alternatives: 🌱 Refillable Bottles: Use shampoo bars, refill stations, or bulk-buy options to reduce plastic waste.🌱 Biodegradable Packaging: Look for brands that use compostable or recyclable materials.🌱 DIY Natural Products: Consider making homemade shampoo or conditioner to cut down on packaging. Key Takeaways: ✅ Most shampoo, soap, and conditioner bottles are recyclable if properly rinsed.✅ Caps should be left on to ensure they don’t get lost during processing.✅ Pump dispensers are usually not recyclable and should be thrown away separately.✅ Consider eco-friendly alternatives to reduce plastic waste. By recycling and choosing sustainable products, we can help reduce plastic pollution and protect the environment! 🌿♻️

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards How to Dispose or Recycle Blankets and Comforters ✅ Proper Disposal & Recycling Methods: Donate : If your blankets or comforters are in good condition, consider donating them to: Homeless shelters Animal shelters (many accept used blankets for bedding) Thrift stores (Goodwill, Salvation Army, etc.) Local charities or churches Repurpose : Use old blankets for pet beds, DIY projects, or insulation in gardens during winter. Cut them into cleaning rags or use them as moving blankets. Recycle : Some textile recycling programs accept blankets and comforters. Check with: Local textile recycling centers Retail take-back programs (some stores offer textile recycling bins) Municipal bulk waste or fabric recycling initiatives 🚫 Do NOT place blankets and comforters in curbside recycling bins —most programs do not accept textiles. If they are heavily soiled or beyond reuse, dispose of them in regular trash.

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