We’ve always been good about recycling as much as we can, limiting waste, and reusing when possible. I mean, we both have environmental related degrees (his in engineering, mine in the sciences) so what can you expect?! There are all kinds of tips and tricks out there to teach your kids about recycling, but I think learning by doing is the best way! Kids will grow up doing what they know. If recycling is always a part of our lives, it will be a part of theirs—because it’s just what you do. I partnered with REPREVE to bring you these tips!
Did you know only 30 percent of plastic bottles are recycled in the U.S.? WHAT?! That’s one of the easiest things to throw in your recycling bin. We can do better! Here are some recycling tips for YOU to make it more of a norm in your home:
- Have a recycling bin inside next to your garbage can. Some only have the recycling bin outside in their garage and I can see how that makes it less likely to recycle as much as you can (going out there can be a hassle). They even make dual bins for this purpose—one side for trash and the other side for recycling. Going to toss something away? Easily toss it in the recycling bin.
- Set goals. We started with this 2-in-1 recycler that has a small compartment on top and a larger one beneath. We decided to try to use the top SMALLER one for trash and the bottom LARGER one for recycling = recycle more than you waste.
- Make it a habit. What do they say, it takes 21 days to build a habit? Keep at it! It will become second nature when you head toward the garage can to know that what’s in your hand can be recycled.
- Reuse. Recycling what you can is great, but reuse items when you can, too! I often use empty bottles or old papers for crafts. Dedicate a “craft” drawer for things like this. Find ideas below.
Here’s a fun example of something that can be made out of plastic bottles when you recycle them! This drawstring backpack doubles as a superhero cape (so fun for kids!) and was made from just TWO plastic bottles!
REPREVE, a leading recycled fiber brand, transforms recycled plastic bottles into fiber used by some of the world’s leading brands (Patagonia, Haggar, Quiksilver and Ford) to make cool stuff like shirts, towels, car interiors and now, these super hero capes! REPREVE has teamed up with Marvel Universe Live! to educate children everywhere on the importance of recycling and encourage them to become recycling super heroes.
Showing your kids what cool things can be made out of recycled items, like this superhero cape, can get them excited about recycling, too. Make it the norm in your home! Here are some DIY crafts for the kids you can do at home with your own recycled items:
- Snowmen gifts from water bottles
- DIY Topsy Turvy Tomato Planter
- Recycled Kids Guitar
- DIY Soda Bottle Boat
- Toilet Paper Roll Flowers
- Upcycled Kids Bank
Want to see a Marvel Universe Live! in your area? Check out upcoming tour stops! We’ll be there next fall near Chicago! Find more info and see other great products made from plastic bottles at REPREVE. They’re on Facebook and Twitter, too!
~Written in partnership with REPREVE and Marvel Universe Live! Any opinions are my own. #TurnItGreen #REPREVE
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