Real Green Trends

No scratch that, actually, I was looking for my crank radio and shakeable flashlight to be prepared for the arriving Hurricane and Tropical Storm season, which in turn was like looking for the proverbial “needle in a haystack.”  Geez, I never considered myself a pack-rat, but the collection of items that I have never used/worn was mindboggling.  So I decided to investigate ways to create more space for myself and thought you might be interested, some even include tax deductions.  I am always looking for alternatives, so if you know any feel free to send them back to me so we can share.

1. Passing on your PC/Printer/Cell Phone:  Since computers are filled with toxins, tossing them into the trash is illegal.  What you may not know is that a lot of e-recycling programs, especially free ones, hire firms that remove the functional parts and strip the scraps for metal, which-you guessed it-also releases toxic chemicals. For peace of mind, check the list of recyclers recommended by the Electronics TakeBack Coalition, a national alliance for responsible e-recycling. Even more convenient, Best Buy stores now accept most old laptops, monitors, and TVs. They may charge a $10 fee-but they’ll hand over a $10 gift card in exchange.  Also, check out BW recycling in Hallandale, FL and they wll take your old computer and cell phone off your hands, most without their nominal desposal fee.  Check out crserecycling and tbeir local drop-offs, where they will take Electronics to Household appliances

2. Carry your books to a Donation Center nearest you: Reselling old books can be tempting: try miami’s craigslist.com or Read the rest of this entry »

Tags: Broward Partnership for the HOmelless, Goodwill, Miami Rescue Mission