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Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of Window Air Conditioner (AC) Units, Ceiling Fans, and Portable Fans Window Air Conditioners (AC Units) Recycling : Electronics Recycling : Since window AC units are electrical appliances, they should be taken to an electronics recycling center . These centers can safely process the electrical components, metals, and plastics used in the AC unit. They are specially equipped to handle refrigerants and other hazardous materials. Refrigerant Disposal : Window AC units contain refrigerants that can be harmful to the environment if released improperly. Before recycling the AC unit, you must have the refrigerants safely removed by a licensed professional or technician. Many electronics recycling centers are equipped to handle refrigerant removal, but it’s essential to check first. Donation/Repair : If your window AC unit is still in good working condition, consider donating it to a local charity or giving it to someone in need. You can also get it repaired before disposing of it to extend its life. Disposal : Specialized Disposal Services : Many cities or towns offer specialized appliance disposal services or events that allow you to safely dispose of large appliances like AC units. They may even offer free pickup in certain areas. Contact your local waste management service for guidance. Scrap Metal Recycling : If the unit is broken and beyond repair, and you cannot find a recycling program, some scrap metal recyclers may accept parts of the AC unit, such as the metal frame, compressor, or motor. Make sure to remove any refrigerants beforehand to ensure safe disposal. Important Notes : Hazardous Materials : As mentioned, refrigerants in AC units are harmful to the environment and require careful handling. Always check that the refrigerant is removed by a professional before recycling or disposing of the unit. Check Local Regulations : Not all recycling centers accept window AC units, and regulations may vary by location. Always confirm with your local recycling facility whether they can accept your AC unit and whether you need to prepare it in any special way (such as refrigerant removal). Schedule Pickup : Many waste management facilities offer special pickups for large appliances like air conditioners. Some areas even have designated days for appliance collection, so check with your local service for options. Portable Fans Recycling : Metal and Plastic Parts : Portable fans typically consist of metal and plastic components. If the fan is no longer working, remove any batteries (if applicable) and separate the metal and plastic parts if possible. Many recycling centers accept metal parts like fan grills, motors, and plastic housing. Electronics Recycling : Since portable fans have electrical components, it is often best to take them to an electronics recycling center . These centers are equipped to handle the electrical parts and can safely recycle the materials. Donation/Repair : If the fan is still in working condition, consider donating it or getting it repaired instead of disposing of it. Many local charities or shelters might accept working fans. Disposal : If your fan cannot be recycled and is beyond repair, you can dispose of it in the trash . However, ensure any electronic components, especially motors or batteries, are removed for proper disposal to avoid environmental contamination. By following these guidelines, you can ensure your window AC unit is disposed of responsibly, helping to reduce its environmental impact.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of Household Insecticides, Herbicides, and Pesticides Insecticides, herbicides, and pesticides are commonly used in households for pest control and gardening. However, these chemicals are hazardous and need to be disposed of safely to protect human health, wildlife, and the environment. Here's how to handle their disposal responsibly: 1. Disposal Guidelines for Insecticides, Herbicides, and Pesticides: a. Never Dispose of in Household Trash: Hazardous Waste : These chemicals are considered hazardous waste and should never be disposed of in regular household trash or poured down the drain, toilet, or into stormwater drains. Improper disposal can lead to contamination of water supplies, soil, and the environment. Drop-off Locations : The safest and most responsible way to dispose of insecticides, herbicides, and pesticides is to take them to a household hazardous waste collection site or HHW facility . These sites are equipped to handle and properly dispose of chemicals. Check Local Guidelines : Contact your local waste management or environmental agency to find out where HHW facilities are located in your area and their specific guidelines. c. Packaging and Labels: Original Packaging : Leave the pesticide or chemical in its original container with the label intact. This helps disposal facility staff identify the contents and ensure proper handling. Leak-proof Containers : If the container is leaking or damaged, carefully transfer the contents into a leak-proof container, and contact the disposal facility for further instructions. d. Never Burn Pesticides: Dangerous Fumes : Burning pesticides, herbicides, or insecticides can release toxic fumes into the air, harming both you and the environment. Never burn these chemicals, even if the container is empty. 2. Avoid Improper Disposal Methods: a. Do Not Pour Down Drains or Toilets: Pouring these chemicals down the drain or toilet can lead to contamination of the water supply, harming aquatic ecosystems and posing serious health risks. b. Do Not Dump in Landfills: Toxic Chemicals : Dumping pesticides in landfills can allow these chemicals to seep into the soil and groundwater, posing long-term environmental risks. c. Do Not Empty into the Yard: Environmental Contamination : Pouring excess pesticides or herbicides onto the soil or yard can damage plant life, poison wildlife, and lead to groundwater contamination. 3. Reduce Pesticide Use: Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Consider using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices, which emphasize reducing the need for chemical treatments by focusing on prevention and using non-toxic methods. This will help reduce the amount of pesticide waste generated in the first place. 4. Storing Pesticides and Herbicides: Safe Storage : Store pesticides and herbicides in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from children, pets, and food items. Ensure containers are tightly sealed to prevent accidental spills or leaks. Expiration Date : Check the expiration date on pesticide products. Old or expired chemicals may be less effective and potentially harmful. Always dispose of expired chemicals at HHW facilities. 5. Alternatives to Chemical Pesticides: Consider using natural, non-toxic alternatives for pest control, such as: Diatomaceous earth for insect control Neem oil for pest deterrence in gardens Beneficial insects like ladybugs and predatory mites to control pests naturally Essential oils like peppermint or citronella for natural insect repellent These alternatives can help reduce your reliance on chemical pesticides and herbicides, minimizing the waste you need to dispose of. Key Takeaways: Never dispose of pesticides or herbicides in the trash, down drains, or in landfills. Take these chemicals to a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facility for proper disposal. Store chemicals properly to prevent accidental spills and leaks. Use alternatives to reduce your reliance on chemical pesticides and herbicides, minimizing waste. By following these disposal practices, you contribute to reducing the environmental and health risks associated with household pesticides, herbicides, and insecticides.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back How to keep dill and cilantro fresh in a fridge!! How to keep dill and cilantro fresh in a fridge!! In our experiment, eco-mesh bags did not preserve vegetable freshness as effectively as we had hoped. This raised the question: how can we keep produce fresh without relying on single-use plastic bags? To explore alternatives, we compared dill stored in a mason jar to dill stored in a plastic bag over a two-week period, changing the water daily. The water in the jar was changed once or twice a day to prevent contamination. The results were striking: the dill stored in the plastic bag wilted and turned yellow, while the dill in the mason jar remained fresh and even appeared to grow slightly. #ctdp #connectingthedotsproject #kanahutchens #connectingthedots #environment #eco #sustainability #ctdp #veggies #vegetables #fruits #fridge #cooling #freshfood #freshproduce #produce #grocery #inflation #Sustainability #sustainable #conservation #EcoFriendly ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of Metal Cooking Utensils and Knives 1. Metal Cooking Utensils Metal cooking utensils, such as spatulas, ladles, tongs, and spoons, are usually made from stainless steel, aluminum, or other metals. The best disposal method depends on the type of metal: Stainless Steel : Recycling : Stainless steel is highly recyclable and should be placed in your metal recycling bin. Make sure the utensils are clean and free of food residue before recycling. Non-Recyclable : If the utensil is damaged beyond repair or is made from a mix of materials (e.g., a plastic handle attached to a metal head), it may not be accepted in some curbside programs. In this case, check with your local recycling center. Aluminum : Recycling : Aluminum utensils can typically be recycled in curbside programs that accept aluminum, like aluminum foil or cans. Clean them thoroughly to avoid contamination in the recycling stream. Non-Recyclable : If the utensil is coated or contains non-aluminum materials, it might not be accepted in the recycling bin. Other Metals (e.g., Copper or Cast Iron) : Recycling : These metals can be recycled at specialized metal recycling centers. Check with local facilities to confirm if they accept specific types of metal. Disposal : If the utensils are rusted or broken and cannot be recycled, dispose of them in regular waste. 2. Knives Knives (whether kitchen knives, steak knives, or pocket knives) are typically made of stainless steel or other strong metals. Their disposal and recycling should be handled carefully: Stainless Steel Knives : Recycling : Most stainless steel knives can be recycled, but they should be taken to a metal recycling center rather than placed in your curbside bin due to their sharp edges. Check with local centers for specific recycling guidelines for knives. Sharps Disposal : Knives should never be placed in regular waste without proper packaging. Safely wrap the blade in cardboard or old newspaper and place it in a secure container to prevent injury to sanitation workers. Damaged or Broken Knives : Recycling : If the knife is beyond repair, it may still be recyclable as metal, but always contact a local recycling center to confirm whether they accept such items. Disposal : If the knife is not recyclable, follow safe disposal practices to prevent injury. Wrap it securely and dispose of it in regular trash. Important Notes: Sharps Safety : Knives should be safely wrapped or placed in a sturdy box to prevent injury when handling or discarding. Many local recycling centers will not accept sharp objects in their bins due to safety concerns. Reuse or Donate : If the utensil or knife is still usable, consider donating it to a local thrift store, shelter, or community organization, or repurpose it in another creative way. Check with Local Recycling Centers : Recycling guidelines can vary depending on your area, so it's always a good idea to check with your local recycling program for specific instructions on recycling metal cooking utensils and knives. By following these disposal and recycling practices, you can help ensure that metal utensils and knives are properly handled and diverted from landfills.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Knowing peak and off-peak hours Cut Costs as You Conserve Energy Did you know that the energy charge varies based on peak and off-peak hours during the day, and these fluctuations can impact the energy bill significantly? The energy is not typically charged at the same rate throughout the day. In many places, electricity providers implement time-of-use (TOU) pricing, where the cost of electricity varies based on the time of day and the level of demand on the energy grid. This pricing model is designed to encourage consumers to shift their energy usage to off-peak hours when the demand for electricity is lower and, in turn, helps balance the load on the grid. The three common pricing periods in time-of-use pricing are: Off-Peak Hours: Energy rates are the lowest during off-peak hours, which are usually late at night, early morning, and sometimes weekends when electricity demand is minimal. Mid-Peak Hours: Energy rates are higher during mid-peak hours, which generally fall during the daytime or early evening when there is moderate demand for electricity. Peak Hours: Energy rates are at their highest during peak hours, typically occurring during the late afternoon and early evening when energy demand is at its highest due to increased residential and commercial activities. *Please note that it may differ based on the region and the provider. For example, here are some energy-saving hours in New York City: Con Edison: During the summer, you should shift some energy use to off-peak hours, which are midnight to 8 AM or all day on weekends Central Hudson: Peak hours are 2 PM to 7 PM, Monday through Friday Smart Energy Plan: For some customers, the peak period is noon to 8 PM, and for others it's 2 PM to 10 PM On-peak winter hours: 5 PM to 8 PM, Monday through Friday (December - February) PSEG Long Island: Peak hours are from 4 PM until 8 PM weekdays Weekends and holidays: All day off-peak periods As you can see, you will need to contact your service provider or look at your bills to learn the peak and saver time of your area. You can also consider shifting some energy use to off-peak hours to avoid using large devices and appliances during the super-peak period, which is Monday through Friday from 2 to 6 PM. By charging different rates based on the time of day, utilities aim to incentivize consumers to use electricity during off-peak hours, thus reducing the strain on the grid during peak periods and promoting energy conservation. It's important for consumers to be aware of their electricity provider's pricing structure, as well as the specific times designated for off-peak, mid-peak, and peak hours. By understanding these rates, consumers can make informed decisions about when to use energy-intensive appliances to potentially save on their electricity bills. Some utility companies may also offer incentives or programs to encourage customers to shift their energy usage to off-peak times, further promoting energy efficiency and grid stability. Stay energy smart and save money! 5/4/2024 ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of Power Cords and Cables Power cords and cables, including charging cables, extension cords, and electrical wiring, contain valuable materials such as copper and aluminum. Proper disposal and recycling can help conserve resources and reduce electronic waste. Recycling Options: Electronics Recycling Centers: Many e-waste recycling facilities accept power cords and cables as they contain recyclable metals. Retail Drop-Off Programs: Some electronic stores (such as Best Buy and Staples) offer recycling programs for cords and cables. Scrap Metal Recycling: Cables containing copper and aluminum can often be recycled at local scrap yards or metal recycling facilities. Disposal: Do Not Throw in Regular Trash: Power cords contain non-biodegradable materials and should not be discarded with household waste. Check with Local Waste Management: Some municipalities accept cords and cables at household hazardous waste (HHW) collection sites. Reuse and Repurpose: Donate or Sell: If the cables are still functional, consider donating them to schools, community centers, or nonprofits that refurbish electronics. Upcycling Projects: Some DIY enthusiasts repurpose old cables for creative home projects.By recycling and reusing power cords and cables responsibly, we can reduce electronic waste and prevent valuable materials from ending up in landfills. ♻️

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Recycling & Disposal of Blenders, Juicers, and Food Processors Small kitchen appliances like blenders, juicers, and food processors should be disposed of responsibly to minimize waste. 1. Recycling Options Electronics Recycling Centers: Many e-waste recycling programs accept small kitchen appliances. Retail Take-Back Programs: Some stores (Best Buy, Staples) offer appliance recycling. Manufacturer Recycling Programs: Certain brands provide mail-in or drop-off recycling options. 2. Responsible Disposal Donate or Repair: If the appliance is still functional, consider donating it to a charity, thrift store, or repair café. Hazardous Waste Collection: Some parts, like electronic circuits, should be taken to designated waste facilities. 3. Sustainable Alternatives Repurpose: Use intact blender jars for storage or repurpose working appliances for alternative uses. Sell or Gift: If the appliance is in good condition, consider selling or giving it away.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal & Recycling of Hats with Various Materials Hats are made from different materials, including fabric, wool, leather, synthetic blends, plastic, and straw. The method of disposal or recycling depends on the material composition and condition of the hat. ♻️ Recycling & Reuse Options: Donate: If the hat is in good condition, consider donating it to local charities, shelters, secondhand stores, or organizations that distribute clothing to those in need. Upcycle: Old hats can be repurposed for crafts, costume projects, or DIY home décor. Sell or Swap: Platforms like thrift stores, online marketplaces, or clothing swap events may accept gently used hats. Fabric Recycling: Textile recycling programs accept cloth-based hats (cotton, wool, polyester). Check with your local facility for guidelines. Composting (for natural materials): Straw and untreated wool hats can sometimes be composted if they are free of synthetic dyes or chemicals. 🗑️ Disposal Considerations: Mixed Material Hats (Blends of Fabric, Leather, Plastic, etc.): These are difficult to recycle due to different material compositions. If no recycling option is available, they may need to be disposed of in regular waste. Plastic or Synthetic Hats: Some plastic-based hats (like hard hats) may be accepted at specialized recycling centers. Check with local waste management. Leather Hats: Genuine leather is generally not recyclable, but some upcycling programs may accept them for repurposing. Key Takeaways: ✔️ Prioritize reuse, donation, or upcycling before disposal.✔️ Check local recycling facilities for material-specific options.✔️ Consider sustainable hat choices in the future, such as biodegradable or upcycled materials.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Recycling & Disposal Guide: Inflatable Items ✅ Recycling & Reuse Options: 🎈 Inflatable Items (Air Mattresses, Pool Floats, Bounce Houses, etc.): Patch & Reuse: Repair small holes with a vinyl patch kit. Upcycle: Old inflatables can be cut into waterproof fabric for bags, covers, or ground tarps . Specialty Recycling: Some brands like TerraCycle offer mail-in recycling for vinyl and plastic inflatables. 🚫 Not Accepted in Regular Curbside Recycling Most tents and inflatables are made of mixed materials (nylon, polyester, PVC, plastic coatings), which are not recyclable in standard curbside bins . Vinyl & PVC items (like pool floats and bounce houses) are difficult to recycle and should be disposed of responsibly . 🛠 Best Disposal Option for Non-Recyclable Items: Landfill : If beyond repair, dispose of them in regular trash. Check with Local Waste Services : Some areas have designated drop-off locations for specialty plastics.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back Geothermal energy from abandoned coal mines has given a new lease Geothermal energy from abandoned coal mines has given a new lease of life and being repurposed to provide zero-carbon energy in various countries in Europe and Canada. Springhill, Nova Scotia, in Canada, started harnessing heat from dormant coal mines as early as 1989, with one local packaging firm now operating a 100% renewable system throughout the year. The technology also has been used to heat hundreds of properties in Gateshead, England. This initiative is seen as a success and showcases the potential of using old mining tunnels for clean, green energy. The warm water, found in disused coal mines, is a valuable and underused source of clean energy, with geologists estimating that the UK's mine shafts hold significant potential. The process involves drilling boreholes to bring the warm water to the surface, then using heat pumps and extractors to raise its temperature before distributing it through heating networks. Once the heat is absorbed in buildings, the water can be returned to the mines to be reheated. This method works year-round and is not affected by seasonal changes, making it a reliable and sustainable energy source. A similar project is underway in Asturias, northern Spain, where flooded coal shafts are used for heating and cooling multiple buildings, including a hospital and a university. Sources: https://www.euronews.com/.../flooded-and-forgotten-how ... https://www.cnbc.com/.../abandoned-coal-mines-may-be-gold ... . https://www2.groundstability.com/geothermal-energy-from.../

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back An Eco-Friendly and Effective Indoor & Outdoor Solution for Mosquito and Fungus Gnat Control Our house is a small urban jungle with many plants, and if you enjoy indoor gardening as we do, you may also have encountered infestations of unwelcome pests. These pests can enter your home through open windows or come with newly acquired plants. Removing them completely is a tedious and tenacious task. However, dangerous insecticides, which often contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals and other harmful agents, should be avoided as they can harm your family and pets. So, how do you remove pests safely? Now, let us share our experience with a product called Mosquito Bits. We have been using it for over 4 months. And we are happy to report to you that it has worked incredibly well. Mosquito Bits are granules containing Bacillus Thuringiensis Israelensis (Bti), a naturally occurring bacterium toxic to mosquito and fungus gnat larvae. When applied to standing water or soil, larvae ingest the bacteria, which disrupts their digestive systems and kills them. Here is something we were taken aback though. When we first purchased the product, we were concerned about the warning label. The package label was very contradicting; it says safe and not safe. hmmmm... So to clarify, we contacted the corporate office, and they explained that the warning is mandated by the EPA for any insect-killing product. Ok, that is a relief. Despite the warning, Mosquito Bits are safe for humans, pets, plants, and fish. We also checked the EPA website and this is what it says. "2. Does Bti pose health risks to humans? No. Bti has no toxicity to people and is approved for use for pest control in organic farming operations. It has been well tested by many studies on acute toxicity and pathogenicity (ability to cause disease) for Bacillus thuringiensis including studies specifically on Bti. Based on these studies, EPA has concluded that Bti does not pose a risk to humans." The label on the Mosquito Bits package says it can be used in bird baths, rain barrels, animal watering troughs, ponds, flower pots, and saucers. Choose Mosquito Bits for a safer, more responsible way to protect your home and garden. Sources: www.epa.gov Bti for Mosquito Control | US EPA Bti is used to control mosquito larva. View questions and answers on Bti and its regulation. #IndoorPlants #anthurium #philodendron #monstera #cactus #plants #ponds #mosquito #bti #MosquitoBits #connectingthedotsproject #ctdp #outdoors #pests #pestcontrol #indoor #environment #environmentallyfriendly #sustainable #sustainability #ecofriendly #safety #MosquitoBits #MosquitoFree #gnats #fungusgnats

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back The return of Gray Wolves to California after nearly 100 year In 1924, the last gray wolf in California was shot and killed, causing the species to disappear from the state. However, 45 gray wolves have recently been spotted in northern California. A source says that the wolves believed to have originally migrated from Yellowstone, as their DNA matches wolves from that region. Check out the video! (Sept 2024) Source: https://www.wildcalifornia.org/.../california-gray-wolf... )%20and%20six%20pups . https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YeAZiyaWgR8