What goes around, comes around...now is a great time to look at how you can recycle more. It may surprise you how many items can be recycled for re-use or to create new materials.
Brisbane has an extensive household recycling program. Perhaps there are items you can recycle that you aren't aware of, for example, clean aluminium foil, phone books and empty aerosol cans. See a full list of what's wanted and what's not in your yellow-lidded recycling bin.
Get the kids to play the recycling game.
There are many ways to recycle various goods.
Plastic bags
Never put plastic bags in your recycling bin. Instead, take them back to any major supermarket and place them in the special plastic bag recycling bin.
Corks
Did you know you can recycle corks (yes, the real corks from wine and champagne bottles)? They are a valuable natural resource, sourced from cork trees. Extend the life of the corks when you recycle them. Girl Guides collect corks (and so far have gathered 160 million of them!).
Electronic waste or e-waste
Don't dump your old computers, modems or other electrical equipment in your regular rubbish or recycling bin. Did you know 98% of an old computer can be recycled? So, store the items until you can dispose of them at Brisbane City Council's next e-waste collection.
Or if your computer is still relatively new and functioning, think about donating it to Computerbank for reuse by non-profit groups and the needy.
Mobile phones
With Australians updating their mobile phones every year or two, there are millions of older, unwanted phones that need to be recycled. Important materials are extracted from the phones, diverting those dangerous items from landfill sites. Don't throw your old phone, mobile battery or accessories in the bin, find a ‘mobile muster' near you instead. Mobile muster is a national recycling program. Read about the amazing journey your phone will take in the recycling process.
Bicycles
Donate any bike to the Bicycle Revolution to see it used either for parts, resale or to provide transport for those who couldn't otherwise afford to buy wheels.
Clothing and shoes
Various charities accept good quality donations of clothes and shoes. Support them even more when you pick up some retro fashion bargains and second-hand pieces.
Miscellaneous
Go to Recycling Near You for details of what can be recycled in your suburb.
Check our directory for other recycling businesses.
Or, if stuff at your house has reached the very end of its useful life, find out when Council's kerbside clean up is planned for your suburb.
