32 Days 'Til the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day: 5 Classroom Items That You Didn’t Know Could Be Recycled

​Everyone knows to recycle paper and water bottles, but what about the smaller items, hidden in the abyss of the arts and crafts closet? Or the books that are laying on shelves collecting dust? According to Recycle Across America, recycling is the main action society can do to improve the environment. Here are 5 items found in the classroom that you probably didn’t know they could be recycled.

1. Markers

Yes, markers can be recycled! Look for recycling companies in your area that will take unused and used markers and pens. Crayola has a recycling program called ColorCycle where they convert plastic into reusable energy. We’ve had many teachers from our workshops tell us they’ve participated in this program and love it! You can also have your students be a part of this as well.

2. Glue Bottles and Sticks

Unfortunately, these cannot be recycled via your curbside recycling program. Glue sticks and bottles are made of #1 and #2 plastic, but many recycling programs are not able to recycle them due to the extra chemicals added to their plastic. However, You can take them to a local recycling center or repurpose them for a project.

3. Printer Cartridges

These can be recycled by dropping them off at an office supply store near you. These retailers are more than willing to take your used cartridges! You can also find a recycling facility nearby. Visit https://earth911.com/ to find one in your area.

4. Books

You probably have some books around your classroom that are no longer being used. You can donate these to a library, charity or thrift store. If you have paperback books that are ripped or no longer good for use, they can go straight to your curbside recycling bin.

5. Batteries

Not every battery will fit into this category. You can recycle rechargeable and single-use batteries, but make sure to contact your local recycling center for proper instructions. ​

​Now, put on your entrepreneurial thinking cap.

1. What are some of the ways you can reduce the amount of garbage produced in the classroom?
   
2. What are some more things you can recycle?
3. How can you reuse some of these materials?
   
4. How can you repurpose some of these materials by putting them to other uses?
   
5. How can you re-design the item or packaging to create less waste?