Local Reuse and Recycling Resources
Click on the map below to find local reuse and recycle sites in the United States. As noted, we recommend first trying to reuse a product and only recycling it as a last resort. Learn more about making the distinction in the Reuse vs. Recycle section to the right.
We have compiled these available resources based on our experiences in our own communities.
- See what we learned about recycling in the United States in 2008:
Summary of Student Findings: Local Reuse and Recycle Options
Try Our Interactive Map to Find Local Resources
U.S. Recycle Location Map
If you cannot find anything for your local area, try http://earth911.org/. They provide a lot of recycling and reusing resources.
Join the Discussion!
Share your resources for Reducing, Reusing and Recycling or share what you do locally in the Share Local Connections blog.
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- Can we change before crisis?
Monday, May 04, 2009 6:29:26 AM - People, Planet, and Prosperity
Saturday, April 25, 2009 7:10:54 PM - Acticle from Organic Lifestyle Magazine
Thursday, April 23, 2009 12:26:43 PM - EPA People, Prosperity and The Planet on the Mall
Tuesday, April 21, 2009 10:08:44 AM - Is your yard carbon neutral?
Sunday, April 12, 2009 6:31:44 PM - Drinking Tap Water
Sunday, March 15, 2009 11:08:29 AM
Reuse vs. Recycle
It is important to distinguish between reuse and recycle resources. To reuse means that an item can be reused in its original condition repaired to function as originally intended or used in a different way. These “reusable” items should be taken to facilities such as secondhand stores or, in the case of building materials, building reclamation centers.
Recycling should be done as a last resort—when the item has to be thrown away because it cannot be reused. The exception is the recycling of molecules and atoms through composting. By composting organic materials, you allow nature to recycle the atoms and molecules that existed before the time of dinosaurs!
An Example of When to Reuse
An example of when to reuse versus recycle is shoes that are in good condition versus shoes that have holes in them. Shoes that are in good condition can be given to a reuse facility. Shoes that can no longer be worn would preferably be sent to a recycling center.
Reusing items is as simple as going to secondhand stores or donating your reusable items to an individual or organization. National organizations that may be in need include the Salvation Army and Habitat for Humanity. There are also great regional organizations that accept reused materials. Loading Dock is an organization in Maryland that reuses building materials and used appliances.
