We’ve all become very familiar with the idea of recycling paper, glass and aluminum products and expect to see those blue or green bins for our recyclable trash around the office or at school. What we often fail to do is open our eyes to the many other products that can and should be recycled for reuse. It’s easy to neglect your responsibility to practice sustainable product usage habits by falling into the mindset of “my contribution is so insignificant, why waste my time.” Unfortunately, because most of us think this way, we have a real problem. Next time you’re throwing something away, consider the ways it could be recycled.The improper disposal of electronic products is causing serious environmental and health hazards in many underdeveloped countries where this trash is sent. Next time you are ready to get rid of an old computer, TV, or batteries, look online for ways to more effectively dispose of your unwanted items. Green Electronics and Earth 911 help you locate potential buyers of old electronics as well as recycling centers in your area, so these items don’t end up in a landfill seeping cadmium into the soil.Another easily-donated item is your old tires. When recycled, tires can be used to make fuel, ground up to make asphalt, or reused in production of a range of other rubber products. Many tire companies will accept old tires for recycling so call around and find out where you can drop of your old wheels.Chances are, last time you bought a new cell phone, you came home and put the old one a drawer and haven’t touched it since. Eventually it will end up in the trash and make its way to a landfill where it can emit hazardous chemicals into the soil. There are a number of other, more eco-conscious, ways to dispose of your old phone. You could try selling it on eBay or donate it to one of the many charities that accept old phones for people in need. Organizations such as Cell Phones for Soldiers and 911 Cell Phone Bank help put old phones in the hands of people who need, but otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford, a mobile phone. The websites of these organizations can be used to find drop-off locations in your area.

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