Everyday Items
Everyday items, what they are made of, do they recycle, and what are some alternatives.
CLICK ON THE IMAGES TO REVEAL INFORMATION
Chewing gum
Contains synthetic rubber, a plastic that is not biodegradable. Sustainable alternatives include natural chicle-based gum or brands offering plastic-free options.
Learn More
Backpack
Nylon: a synthetic polymer made from petrochemicals. It is durable but not biodegradable and ends up in landfills. Alternatives include backpacks made from organic cotton and recycled PET.
Learn More
Lego
ABS is a polymer made from petrochemicals. It’s strong and impact-resistant, but does not recycle easily and ends in landfill. Alternatives: bricks made from recycled plastic, bio-plastic, wood, or buying used toys instead of new is also a great way to recycle.
Load More
Clothing
Polyester is a synthetic polymer derived from petroleum. Moderately recyclable, but energy intensive. Alternatives: clothing made from cotton and other natural materials.
Learn More
Food Packaging
Polyethylene and Polypropylene: these plastics are recyclable in some areas but often end up in landfills due to contamination. Eco-friendly alternatives include compostable packaging made from cornstarch, paper-based wrappers, or reusable containers.
Learn More
Cardboard
Produced from wood pulp, cardboard is widely recyclable and biodegradable. However, contamination with grease or food can hinder the recycling process. Using uncoated cardboard, opting for reusable packaging, or reducing usage can be more environmentally friendly.
Learn More
Artificial Leather
Often manufactured from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyurethane (PU), fake leather is not biodegradable and poses recycling challenges. Sustainable alternatives encompass plant-based leathers derived from mushrooms, pineapple leaves (Piñatex), or cork.
Learn More
Artificial Jewelry
Zinc alloy, a mix of zinc with other metals like copper or nickel. Alloys are difficult to recycle and end in landfills. ethically sourced natural materials like wood and glass. Eco-friendly alternatives include jewelry made from recycled precious metals, stainless steel, or ethically sourced natural materials like wood and glass.
Learn More
Artificial Nails
Crafted from acrylic or gel plastics, artificial nails are non-biodegradable and contribute to microplastic pollution. Greener alternatives include reusable press-on nails or embracing natural nail care with non-toxic polish.
Learn More
Luggage
Constructed from a mix of plastic, metal, and synthetic fabrics, luggage is difficult to recycle. Sustainable choices involve luggage made from recycled materials, plant-based fibers, or designs that are repairable and modular.
Learn More
Plastic Cutlery
Usually made from polystyrene or polypropylene, plastic cutlery is hard to recycle due to its size and contamination. Compostable cutlery from cornstarch, bamboo, or reusable options like metal and wood are more eco-friendly.
Learn More
Balloons
Latex balloons are biodegradable but decompose slowly, while foil (mylar) balloons are non-recyclable. Alternatives include paper decorations, fabric bunting, or biodegradable paper balloons.
Click Here
Sunglasses
Often made from polycarbonate or acetate, materials that are tough to recycle. Eco-friendly alternatives feature sunglasses crafted from recycled ocean plastics, bamboo, or biodegradable acetate.
Learn More