Someone asked, what do we do with the old lights we will replace with LEDs? Recycle them of course - check out this site: http://www.holidayleds.com/holidayledscom_christmas_light_recycling_program.
If you don't want to mail them in to HolidayLEDs, bring them to me. I found a Home Depot that will recycle them. (In November Home Depots across the country had a Christmas Lights Recycling Program-LED coupon for old lights exchange, but I can still take your old lights to the one on Highland Dr.)
Tabs & Lids:
Just a reminder that at the end of this month, we will be delivering to the Ronald McDonald House (RMH) our collection of aluminum can tabs. The RMH raised $8,000 just from can tabs last year!!
Also, we are collecting plastic bottle lids like Coke Rewards and other similar programs - just check your bottle lid. Thanks to Carlos Alamilla from DRE and Julie Price from DS who will submit the lid numbers through Coke Rewards. We will continue to have these collections in the New Year, but if you have been collecting tabs and bottle lids please bring them to me so we can make the most of our 2010 donations to charity.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Holiday Lights - Drawing - Introducing Carolyn Roll
Happy December, everyone!
It is the season to put up our Christmas tree and outdoor lights. Have you switched yet from the incandescent holiday light to the more energy efficient LEDs?
Light emitting diodes (LEDs) are small light sources that are illuminated by the movement of electrons through a semiconductor material. LEDs are exceptionally energy efficient when producing individual colors, many using up to 90% less energy than an incandescent bulb to produce the same amount of light. For example, the amount of electricity consumed by just one 7-watt incandescent bulb could power 140 LEDs - enough to light two 24-ft (7.3 meter) strings of lights. LEDs can last up to 10 times longer than traditional incandescent strands, and come with a 3 year warranty.
If you are ready to make the switch, Smith's has 50% off their holiday lights, and Shopko 65% off. No time like the present!! There may be great deals after Christmas as well.
Drawing:
Those who bring me a receipt showing their LED light purchase will have their name entered in a drawing for prizes - we will not do this drawing until January so that we include any post-Christmas purchases.
Introduction:
I want to introduce to you Carolyn Roll from the Division of Public Utilities who will now be helping me with the Think! Energy Campaign. Carolyn has been one of our biggest Campaign supporters at Commerce and I am grateful to have her join me as a co-captain for Commerce. She has some wonderful energy efficiency ideas that I'm excited to have her share with us in the coming months.
Wishing you much fun with your holiday preparations!
Masuda & Carolyn
Your E-Team Co-Captains
It is the season to put up our Christmas tree and outdoor lights. Have you switched yet from the incandescent holiday light to the more energy efficient LEDs?
Light emitting diodes (LEDs) are small light sources that are illuminated by the movement of electrons through a semiconductor material. LEDs are exceptionally energy efficient when producing individual colors, many using up to 90% less energy than an incandescent bulb to produce the same amount of light. For example, the amount of electricity consumed by just one 7-watt incandescent bulb could power 140 LEDs - enough to light two 24-ft (7.3 meter) strings of lights. LEDs can last up to 10 times longer than traditional incandescent strands, and come with a 3 year warranty.
If you are ready to make the switch, Smith's has 50% off their holiday lights, and Shopko 65% off. No time like the present!! There may be great deals after Christmas as well.
Drawing:
Those who bring me a receipt showing their LED light purchase will have their name entered in a drawing for prizes - we will not do this drawing until January so that we include any post-Christmas purchases.
Introduction:
I want to introduce to you Carolyn Roll from the Division of Public Utilities who will now be helping me with the Think! Energy Campaign. Carolyn has been one of our biggest Campaign supporters at Commerce and I am grateful to have her join me as a co-captain for Commerce. She has some wonderful energy efficiency ideas that I'm excited to have her share with us in the coming months.
Wishing you much fun with your holiday preparations!
Masuda & Carolyn
Your E-Team Co-Captains
Heating Tips to Save Energy and Money
Heat Your Home Efficiently- from Energy Star
As much as half of the energy used in your home goes to heating and cooling. So making smart decisions about your home's heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can have a big effect on your utility bills — and your comfort. Take these 5 steps to increase the efficiency of your heating and cooling system.
1-Change your air filter regularly
Check your filter every month, especially during heavy use months (winter and summer). If the filter looks dirty after a month, change it. At a minimum, change the filter every 3 months. A dirty filter will slow down air flow and make the system work harder to keep you warm or cool — wasting energy. A clean filter will also prevent dust and dirt from building up in the system — leading to expensive maintenance and/or early system failure.
2-Tune up your HVAC equipment yearly
Just as a tune-up for your car can improve your gas mileage, a yearly tune-up of your heating and cooling system can improve efficiency and comfort. Learn more:
Maintain your Equipment: A Checklist
Finding the right contractor: 10 tips
3-Install a programmable thermostat
A programmable thermostat is ideal for people who are away from home during set periods of time throughout the week. Through proper use of pre-programmed settings, a programmable thermostat can save you about $180 every year in energy costs.
4-Seal your heating and cooling ducts
Ducts that move air to-and-from a forced air furnace, central air conditioner, or heat pump are often big energy wasters. Sealing and insulating ducts can improve the efficiency of your heating and cooling system by as much as 20 percent — and sometimes much more.
Focus first on sealing ducts that run through the attic, crawlspace, unheated basement, or garage. Use duct sealant (mastic) or metal-backed (foil) tape to seal the seams and connections of ducts. After sealing the ducts in those spaces, wrap them in insulation to keep them from getting hot in the summer or cold in the winter. Next, look to seal any other ducts that you can access in the heated or cooled part of the house.
5-Consider installing ENERGY STAR qualified heating and cooling equipment
If your HVAC equipment is more than 10 years old or not keeping your house comfortable, have it evaluated by a professional HVAC contractor. If it is not performing efficiently or needs upgrading,consider replacing it with a unit that has earned the ENERGY STAR. Depending on where you live, replacing your old heating and cooling equipment with ENERGY STAR qualified equipment can cut your annual energy bill by nearly $200. But before you invest in a new HVAC system, make sure that you have addressed the big air leaks in your house and the duct system. Sometimes, these are the real sources of problems rather than your HVAC equipment.
As much as half of the energy used in your home goes to heating and cooling. So making smart decisions about your home's heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can have a big effect on your utility bills — and your comfort. Take these 5 steps to increase the efficiency of your heating and cooling system.
1-Change your air filter regularly
Check your filter every month, especially during heavy use months (winter and summer). If the filter looks dirty after a month, change it. At a minimum, change the filter every 3 months. A dirty filter will slow down air flow and make the system work harder to keep you warm or cool — wasting energy. A clean filter will also prevent dust and dirt from building up in the system — leading to expensive maintenance and/or early system failure.
2-Tune up your HVAC equipment yearly
Just as a tune-up for your car can improve your gas mileage, a yearly tune-up of your heating and cooling system can improve efficiency and comfort. Learn more:
Maintain your Equipment: A Checklist
Finding the right contractor: 10 tips
3-Install a programmable thermostat
A programmable thermostat is ideal for people who are away from home during set periods of time throughout the week. Through proper use of pre-programmed settings, a programmable thermostat can save you about $180 every year in energy costs.
4-Seal your heating and cooling ducts
Ducts that move air to-and-from a forced air furnace, central air conditioner, or heat pump are often big energy wasters. Sealing and insulating ducts can improve the efficiency of your heating and cooling system by as much as 20 percent — and sometimes much more.
Focus first on sealing ducts that run through the attic, crawlspace, unheated basement, or garage. Use duct sealant (mastic) or metal-backed (foil) tape to seal the seams and connections of ducts. After sealing the ducts in those spaces, wrap them in insulation to keep them from getting hot in the summer or cold in the winter. Next, look to seal any other ducts that you can access in the heated or cooled part of the house.
5-Consider installing ENERGY STAR qualified heating and cooling equipment
If your HVAC equipment is more than 10 years old or not keeping your house comfortable, have it evaluated by a professional HVAC contractor. If it is not performing efficiently or needs upgrading,consider replacing it with a unit that has earned the ENERGY STAR. Depending on where you live, replacing your old heating and cooling equipment with ENERGY STAR qualified equipment can cut your annual energy bill by nearly $200. But before you invest in a new HVAC system, make sure that you have addressed the big air leaks in your house and the duct system. Sometimes, these are the real sources of problems rather than your HVAC equipment.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Clear the Air Challenge Prize Winner
The winner of our Mid-August drawing for the Clear the Air Challenge is Ronda from DOPL. Ronda picked the prize of a book mark made by Ann Blath Paipeir, from newspapers.
Congratulations, Ronda!!
For more information re/Ann Blath Paipeir, see: http://www.etsy.com/shop/anblathpaipeir
Our next drawing for the Clear the Air Challenge will be at the end of the month, so make sure to track your saved costs and emissions until I ask for your My Tracker record again.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Agriculture Advocates
Monday, July 26, 2010
More Upcycling Photos
Upcycling photos from Commerce colleagues and others:
Pics of a hot tub surround made of pop can insulated, concrete covered triangles; and I hear it works!
Lee's basket made from Christmas cards, and Valeri's quilt made from her son's T-shirts! Thanks, Ladies!
Flowers made from paper (phone books, magazines) then turned into jewelry, book markers, etc. See more at this website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/anblathpaipeirJunk mail turned into gems:
http://www.junkmailgems.com/index.html
AND a boat made out of plastic bottles crosses the Pacific Ocean:
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Upcycling Lunch - Additional Recycling Update
Upcycling Entries:
Thanks to all who have submitted entries for the upcycling campaign. You have been very creative in using recycled items to make things that are fun and useful. The above pictures show items I received since the last blog (had some trouble with the orientation of the pictures): a 2 liter plastic bottle made into a sprinkler head, toilet paper rolls used for coiling extension cords, decorated with wrapping paper and Christmas cards; clothing made out of other clothing or bed sheets, a wall decoration upcycled from an item once used as a bottle stop/lid, a crocheted produce bag made from a prior craft project, a wooden stool cover made from an old skirt, etc. Thanks for your entries Karen, Kathy, and Carolyn. Our winner from a drawing of these entries is Carolyn from DOPL. Congratulations, Carolyn.
Upcycling Lunch:
We will have a pot luck lunch rather than a brown bag lunch on Tue 7/27 from noon to 1 pm in Rm 210. For those who are able to bring their entries (if I don't already have them), please bring them for viewing. Those who attend the lunch can vote for three upcycling items that they like - the top three vote getters will receive a prize. We will also have some upcycling items that we can make and take. Please RSVP, mmedcalf@utah.gov, and let me know if you can make the lunch.
Recycling Update:
Recycling Update:
Thank you all for your continued ideas on what we should recycle around here. After researching these ideas, we came up with yet other ways that we can become more green.
--So, please take note that we can now collect dust-off canisters:
http://www.falconsafety.com/falconSafety/environment/recyclingAndTechnicalTraining.aspx
"For consumers wishing to know how and if Dust-Off canisters can be recycled. Dust-Off cans are made of steel and can be recycled with metals in accordance to your local recycling programs. However, PLEASE make sure that all cans are empty of compressed gas prior to recycling. "
http://www.falconsafety.com/falconSafety/environment/recyclingAndTechnicalTraining.aspx
"For consumers wishing to know how and if Dust-Off canisters can be recycled. Dust-Off cans are made of steel and can be recycled with metals in accordance to your local recycling programs. However, PLEASE make sure that all cans are empty of compressed gas prior to recycling. "
--We can also collect lithium batteries for laptops. (We are also still collecting household alkaline and rechargeable batteries).
--Just bring these items to me.
Your ETeam Captain,
Masuda
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Brown Bag & Recycling
Plastics Recycling -
Update as to recycling plastics in the U.S., current data as to improvements in recycling plastics and the reasons why some still find it difficult to recycle. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/38173694/ns/business-oil_and_energy/
For consumers wishing to know how and if Dust-Off canisters can be recycled. Dust-Off cans are made of steel and can be recycled with metals in accordance to your local recycling programs. However, PLEASE make sure that all cans are empty of compressed gas prior to recycling. http://www.falconsafety.com/falconSafety/environment/recyclingAndTechnicalTraining.aspx
Update as to recycling plastics in the U.S., current data as to improvements in recycling plastics and the reasons why some still find it difficult to recycle. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/38173694/ns/business-oil_and_energy/
For consumers wishing to know how and if Dust-Off canisters can be recycled. Dust-Off cans are made of steel and can be recycled with metals in accordance to your local recycling programs. However, PLEASE make sure that all cans are empty of compressed gas prior to recycling. http://www.falconsafety.com/falconSafety/environment/recyclingAndTechnicalTraining.aspx
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Commerce Wins - What We've Made With Recyclables
Thanks to all of you for your commitment to the Think! Energy campaign and its message, and CONGRATULATIONS!!!! I got the official notice yesterday from the National Energy Foundation that Commerce has won the Pledge Contest, with over 60% of our Department employees pledging to be energy efficient!!!
What We've Made With Recyclables
So far this month, we have several creative use ideas and actual products made from recycled materials. Here they are, keep them coming!!
1. Thanks Carolyn for you cork trivets:
Also, this article discusses the World Cup, soccer players wearing jerseys made almost entirely from plastic bottles: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/06/12/business/energy-environment/12sustain.html?ref=recycling_of_waste_materials
2. These are all awesome, Lee!!
**Ribbon Photo Corners - Giving a decorative touch to photo albums using ribbons from gifts received - http://www.marthastewart.com/good-things/ribbon-photo-corners
**using a toilet paper roll to hold an extension cord
**using a paper towel roll on a wire hanger to keep your pants from getting a crease when you hang them in half
**making gift bags from scraps of material, or old shirts, jeans, etc. (easy sewing, or glue for those who do not sew)
**making Christmas ornaments from Christmas cards - below
**making book marks from Christmas Cards and from corners of envelopes
**shredding scrap paper and old gift wrapping paper for use as filler in gift bags
3. Skirts made out of old dresses, cut-offs from old pair of pants, pillow cases from an old sheet (Karen you are wiz with your sewing machine!)
Future Campaign Ideas - Thanks Shauna
(a) Have staff complete a water audit of their water use to become aware one month, report usage before. The water audit or water check can be done through the "slow the flow" website. The following month set a goal to reduce use by a percentage and report after usage.
(b) Education on water resistance planting and xerioscaping, with the challenge to have staff plant at least one or more plants and submit a picture.
(c) Become clutter free in our homes and offices, recycling the abundance, redundance and just plain extra. i.e., count the number of clutter items they freed themselves of (taking a bag and walking around the home with a challenge to remove 25 items not being used and taking up valuable space)
Century Gothic font uses 30% less ink than Arial? http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=125639616 (Thanks Jeff)
Make and Take Brown Bag and Contest in July
With many of us taking summer vacations, we are going to extend the current campaign into July. Towards the end of July, we will hold a Brown Bag when we can use the upcycling ideas I am receiving from you, we can make and take some of the more simple items, and we can also vote on our favorite upcycled items entered into the contest.
So, keep bringing in your entries (remember that each upcycled item is a separate entry into our drawing)!!
Now, if you are an early bird reader of this blog entry, send me an email for a little bonus.
What We've Made With Recyclables
So far this month, we have several creative use ideas and actual products made from recycled materials. Here they are, keep them coming!!
1. Thanks Carolyn for you cork trivets:
Also, this article discusses the World Cup, soccer players wearing jerseys made almost entirely from plastic bottles: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/06/12/business/energy-environment/12sustain.html?ref=recycling_of_waste_materials
2. These are all awesome, Lee!!
**Ribbon Photo Corners - Giving a decorative touch to photo albums using ribbons from gifts received - http://www.marthastewart.com/good-things/ribbon-photo-corners
**using a toilet paper roll to hold an extension cord
**using a paper towel roll on a wire hanger to keep your pants from getting a crease when you hang them in half
**making gift bags from scraps of material, or old shirts, jeans, etc. (easy sewing, or glue for those who do not sew)
**making Christmas ornaments from Christmas cards - below
**making book marks from Christmas Cards and from corners of envelopes
**shredding scrap paper and old gift wrapping paper for use as filler in gift bags
3. Skirts made out of old dresses, cut-offs from old pair of pants, pillow cases from an old sheet (Karen you are wiz with your sewing machine!)
Future Campaign Ideas - Thanks Shauna
(a) Have staff complete a water audit of their water use to become aware one month, report usage before. The water audit or water check can be done through the "slow the flow" website. The following month set a goal to reduce use by a percentage and report after usage.
(b) Education on water resistance planting and xerioscaping, with the challenge to have staff plant at least one or more plants and submit a picture.
(c) Become clutter free in our homes and offices, recycling the abundance, redundance and just plain extra. i.e., count the number of clutter items they freed themselves of (taking a bag and walking around the home with a challenge to remove 25 items not being used and taking up valuable space)
Century Gothic font uses 30% less ink than Arial? http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=125639616 (Thanks Jeff)
Make and Take Brown Bag and Contest in July
With many of us taking summer vacations, we are going to extend the current campaign into July. Towards the end of July, we will hold a Brown Bag when we can use the upcycling ideas I am receiving from you, we can make and take some of the more simple items, and we can also vote on our favorite upcycled items entered into the contest.
So, keep bringing in your entries (remember that each upcycled item is a separate entry into our drawing)!!
Now, if you are an early bird reader of this blog entry, send me an email for a little bonus.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
June Campaign Details
For the June Think! Energy Campaign, I would like to see:
(1) yours or your family/friends' attempts at upcycling, making something usable with recycled materials; and
(2) your ideas for future monthly campaigns.
UPCYCLED ITEMS: You can bring these items to me, I will take pictures and post them on our blog for others to see. I will also hold these items until the end of the month and we will probably have a brown bag lunch or other gathering later this month so that everyone has a chance to see them. Perhaps we will hold a contest to see which upcycled items are found to be the most useful, the most creative, the most likely to sell in a market, etc.
So begin making your upcycling entries. Here are a couple of web sites courtesy of Carolyn from DOPL, that might help you get started - patterns for making grocery and produce bags.
http://wisdomofthemoon.blogspot.com/2008/01/cheap-easy-fabric-produce-bags.html
http://tipnut.com/35-reusable-grocery-bags-totes-free-patterns/
I have skimmed these sites, and they are really great! I also posted other sites on this blog previously with additional links to craft ideas.
By the way, you can have more than one entry for the upcycling contest!
YOUR CAMPAIGN IDEAS: I have been doing this for a year now, and I'm not sure I have any more ideas to throw at you. I am hoping you are still remembering and practicing the habits we tried to learn through the first year: switching power strips off at night, turning off lights in unused rooms, unplugging appliances not in use, eliminating personal appliances; using alternate modes of transportation, limiting driving trips, and not idling automobiles; recycling cans, plastics, cardboard, batteries, etc. and upcycling items where possible. In order to continue the Think! Energy campaign and keep it alive in this Department, I need your help. Please send me your ideas for topics or activities, ways that will help us keep the momentum going and continue to have monthly drawings.
JUNE DRAWING. Your future campaign ideas and upcycled items will earn entries to the June prize drawings! And now, if you are an early bird and send me a quick email and let me know you've read this blog entry, you could be eligible for a little bonus.
Thank you!
Your E-Team Captain,
Masuda
(1) yours or your family/friends' attempts at upcycling, making something usable with recycled materials; and
(2) your ideas for future monthly campaigns.
UPCYCLED ITEMS: You can bring these items to me, I will take pictures and post them on our blog for others to see. I will also hold these items until the end of the month and we will probably have a brown bag lunch or other gathering later this month so that everyone has a chance to see them. Perhaps we will hold a contest to see which upcycled items are found to be the most useful, the most creative, the most likely to sell in a market, etc.
So begin making your upcycling entries. Here are a couple of web sites courtesy of Carolyn from DOPL, that might help you get started - patterns for making grocery and produce bags.
http://wisdomofthemoon.blogspot.com/2008/01/cheap-easy-fabric-produce-bags.html
http://tipnut.com/35-reusable-grocery-bags-totes-free-patterns/
I have skimmed these sites, and they are really great! I also posted other sites on this blog previously with additional links to craft ideas.
By the way, you can have more than one entry for the upcycling contest!
YOUR CAMPAIGN IDEAS: I have been doing this for a year now, and I'm not sure I have any more ideas to throw at you. I am hoping you are still remembering and practicing the habits we tried to learn through the first year: switching power strips off at night, turning off lights in unused rooms, unplugging appliances not in use, eliminating personal appliances; using alternate modes of transportation, limiting driving trips, and not idling automobiles; recycling cans, plastics, cardboard, batteries, etc. and upcycling items where possible. In order to continue the Think! Energy campaign and keep it alive in this Department, I need your help. Please send me your ideas for topics or activities, ways that will help us keep the momentum going and continue to have monthly drawings.
JUNE DRAWING. Your future campaign ideas and upcycled items will earn entries to the June prize drawings! And now, if you are an early bird and send me a quick email and let me know you've read this blog entry, you could be eligible for a little bonus.
Thank you!
Your E-Team Captain,
Masuda
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Upcycling Ideas
1. Recycling Kitchen Knives - don't you hate to throw them away? Consider contacting one of the metal recycling places below - some of them even pay based on the metal content of the knives:
Aluminum Can/Metal Buy-Back Centers:
Custom Industries . . . 5400 W Old Bingham Hwy . . 801-280-3502
Metro Group . . . . . .401 W 900 S. . . . . . . . . 801-328-2051
Redwood Recycling . . . 6235 S Redwood Rd. . . . . 801-266-7298
Rocky Mtn. Recycling . . 3110 S 900 W. . . . . . . 801-972-5360
Utah Metal Works . . . . 805 W Everett Ave (1450 N)801-364-5679
Wasatch Metal . . . . . .205 W 3300 S . . . . . . .801-484-3511
Western Metals . . . . . 4221 W 700 S . . . . . . .801-975-9669
SIMS/Metal Mangmt . . . .3260 W 500 S . . . . . . .801-954-8888
2. Paper drinking straws are making a comeback:
http://www.aardvarkstraws.com/
(I had never heard of paper drinking straws before)
3. ReStore - Habitat for Humanity
ReStore is a Habitat for Humanity home improvement thrift store, where proceeds go toward building homes for low-income families. The store is at 1276 S. 500 West, Salt Lake City, and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. To learn more or how to donate call 801-263-0136 or go to http://www.habitatsaltlake.com.
The store accepts all kinds of new and gently used items, such as appliances, doors, cabinets, electrical pieces, hardware, lawn and garden supplies, furniture, lumber, roofing materials, tools and windows, among many other things.
The store will even retrieve items from the homes of those who wish to donate.
4. Cork Board Craft Idea:
http://www.hgtv.ca/default - "Cork” Board
By: Wendy Russell, Host of She's Crafty
Materials:
• approximately 100 corks (plastic and real cork both work!), varying lengths
• 12” X 12” X 1 ¼ “ (30.48 cm X 30.48 cm X 3.18 cm) picture frame
• 12” X 12” (30.48 X 30.48 cm) hardboard
• strong white glue
• 8 framing points (aka glazier’s points)
• picture hanging kit
• flathead screwdriver, scissors, sanding block
Directions:
1. Glue two smaller sized corks vertically and parallel to one another onto the centre of the hardboard.
2. Glue two corks of the same size horizontally and centered, one across the tops and one across the bottoms, of the first two corks.
3. Glue another two corks vertically, with their ends together, and centered on either side of the first four corks. This will create an even square formation out of all of the corks. At this point, start alternating the plastic and real corks to create an even effect. Longer corks can be incorporated as well to help ensure a snug fit. HOT TIP: Any jagged ends of a cork can be cut off with scissors or sanded smooth with a sanding block.
4. Glue another two corks horizontally, with their ends together, and centered both above and below the square formation to create a rectangle formation.
5. Glue three corks vertically, with their ends together, and centered on either side of the rectangle formation to create an even square formation.
6. Continue in the above-listed manner until the hardboard is completely covered by one large square formation of corks.
7. Place the hardboard facedown into the picture frame. Secure into place with framing points. Use a flathead screwdriver to push two or three framing points into each side of the picture frame, just above the hardboard.
8. Attach a picture hanging kit to the back of the frame.
Aluminum Can/Metal Buy-Back Centers:
Custom Industries . . . 5400 W Old Bingham Hwy . . 801-280-3502
Metro Group . . . . . .401 W 900 S. . . . . . . . . 801-328-2051
Redwood Recycling . . . 6235 S Redwood Rd. . . . . 801-266-7298
Rocky Mtn. Recycling . . 3110 S 900 W. . . . . . . 801-972-5360
Utah Metal Works . . . . 805 W Everett Ave (1450 N)801-364-5679
Wasatch Metal . . . . . .205 W 3300 S . . . . . . .801-484-3511
Western Metals . . . . . 4221 W 700 S . . . . . . .801-975-9669
SIMS/Metal Mangmt . . . .3260 W 500 S . . . . . . .801-954-8888
2. Paper drinking straws are making a comeback:
http://www.aardvarkstraws.com/
(I had never heard of paper drinking straws before)
3. ReStore - Habitat for Humanity
ReStore is a Habitat for Humanity home improvement thrift store, where proceeds go toward building homes for low-income families. The store is at 1276 S. 500 West, Salt Lake City, and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. To learn more or how to donate call 801-263-0136 or go to http://www.habitatsaltlake.com.
The store accepts all kinds of new and gently used items, such as appliances, doors, cabinets, electrical pieces, hardware, lawn and garden supplies, furniture, lumber, roofing materials, tools and windows, among many other things.
The store will even retrieve items from the homes of those who wish to donate.
4. Cork Board Craft Idea:
http://www.hgtv.ca/default - "Cork” Board
By: Wendy Russell, Host of She's Crafty
Materials:
• approximately 100 corks (plastic and real cork both work!), varying lengths
• 12” X 12” X 1 ¼ “ (30.48 cm X 30.48 cm X 3.18 cm) picture frame
• 12” X 12” (30.48 X 30.48 cm) hardboard
• strong white glue
• 8 framing points (aka glazier’s points)
• picture hanging kit
• flathead screwdriver, scissors, sanding block
Directions:
1. Glue two smaller sized corks vertically and parallel to one another onto the centre of the hardboard.
2. Glue two corks of the same size horizontally and centered, one across the tops and one across the bottoms, of the first two corks.
3. Glue another two corks vertically, with their ends together, and centered on either side of the first four corks. This will create an even square formation out of all of the corks. At this point, start alternating the plastic and real corks to create an even effect. Longer corks can be incorporated as well to help ensure a snug fit. HOT TIP: Any jagged ends of a cork can be cut off with scissors or sanded smooth with a sanding block.
4. Glue another two corks horizontally, with their ends together, and centered both above and below the square formation to create a rectangle formation.
5. Glue three corks vertically, with their ends together, and centered on either side of the rectangle formation to create an even square formation.
6. Continue in the above-listed manner until the hardboard is completely covered by one large square formation of corks.
7. Place the hardboard facedown into the picture frame. Secure into place with framing points. Use a flathead screwdriver to push two or three framing points into each side of the picture frame, just above the hardboard.
8. Attach a picture hanging kit to the back of the frame.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Salt Lake Valley Recycling Locations
http://www.recycle.slco.org/pdf/recyclingGuide.pdf
See above link for a list of recycling locations and items they will accept.
See above link for a list of recycling locations and items they will accept.
May Campaign Status - What is Upcycling?
How are you doing with remembering to keep cork and bottle stoppers, batteries, denim, prescription glasses, ink cartridges and toner cartridges without return labels? I have only had one person bring me a unique item so far this week, a toner cartridge. Thanks, Karen!
Thanks also to Maxine for her idea that our Divisions purchase rechargeable batteries and battery chargers; and to Van for the idea of using a mulching mower blade on our lawns(http://www.allaboutlawns.com/lawn-mowing-mowers/should-i-bag-or-mulch-the-clippings.php; http://www.springcreekforest.com/mulching_versus_bagging.htm), and composting (http://www.composting101.com/; http://greenliving.about.com/od/thegreenyard/tp/compost.htm).
Have you thought about any items you can make with recyclables for our May campaign? This website might give you some ideas - Look at what the company Terracycle has done with upcycling everyday trash into cool products: http://www.terracycle.net/. (The video explains upcycling). Will you want to participate in any brigades for Terracycle, collecting specific items of trash for certain products: http://www.terracycle.net/brigades/joining? Do any of you know other companies who are successful in making new products from recyclable trash? Let me know your thoughts.
Thanks also to Maxine for her idea that our Divisions purchase rechargeable batteries and battery chargers; and to Van for the idea of using a mulching mower blade on our lawns(http://www.allaboutlawns.com/lawn-mowing-mowers/should-i-bag-or-mulch-the-clippings.php; http://www.springcreekforest.com/mulching_versus_bagging.htm), and composting (http://www.composting101.com/; http://greenliving.about.com/od/thegreenyard/tp/compost.htm).
Have you thought about any items you can make with recyclables for our May campaign? This website might give you some ideas - Look at what the company Terracycle has done with upcycling everyday trash into cool products: http://www.terracycle.net/. (The video explains upcycling). Will you want to participate in any brigades for Terracycle, collecting specific items of trash for certain products: http://www.terracycle.net/brigades/joining? Do any of you know other companies who are successful in making new products from recyclable trash? Let me know your thoughts.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
May Campaign - Recycling the Unique
For our May campaign, we will expand on our prior success with recycling. You might recall, we are already recycling paper, plastics and cardboard. We are collecting soda can tabs for the Ronald McDonald House and Coke bottle lids (Cook Rewards) for a charity of our choice. See http://www.mycokerewards.com/home.do for a list of charities we can pick from at the end of 2010.
This month, rather than throwing out the following items that you use at home, I would like you to bring them to the office: batteries, eye glasses, denim, cork or other bottle stoppers, PC ink cartridges, and PC toners (those that do not come with a return label). I can be the repository for these items; I will have a big box for them in my office - just contact me and let me know you are coming by. I will then take these items to those who have already agreed to help me deliver them to the appropriate recycling centers - thank you Maxine, Michele, Elaine, and Mia! The cork and bottle stoppers will actually be used for craft projects; the eye glasses will be donated to charity.
Drawing - Here is how you can qualify for this month's drawing:
1. Bring to me the above listed items throughout the month.
2. Send me your ideas of unique items that we can recycle. Please note, we do not want to collect any hazardous materials or anything that would take up a lot of room here at work.
3. Bring me crafts that you made with any recycled items. (You don't need to leave them with me; I will take a picture and let you have it back).
So start thinking. This could be really fun! Do you need a place to start? Look to these sites:
http://www.obviously.com/recycle/guides/shortest.html
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/03/10/proper-waste-disposal-pho_n_491672.html
This month, rather than throwing out the following items that you use at home, I would like you to bring them to the office: batteries, eye glasses, denim, cork or other bottle stoppers, PC ink cartridges, and PC toners (those that do not come with a return label). I can be the repository for these items; I will have a big box for them in my office - just contact me and let me know you are coming by. I will then take these items to those who have already agreed to help me deliver them to the appropriate recycling centers - thank you Maxine, Michele, Elaine, and Mia! The cork and bottle stoppers will actually be used for craft projects; the eye glasses will be donated to charity.
Drawing - Here is how you can qualify for this month's drawing:
1. Bring to me the above listed items throughout the month.
2. Send me your ideas of unique items that we can recycle. Please note, we do not want to collect any hazardous materials or anything that would take up a lot of room here at work.
3. Bring me crafts that you made with any recycled items. (You don't need to leave them with me; I will take a picture and let you have it back).
So start thinking. This could be really fun! Do you need a place to start? Look to these sites:
http://www.obviously.com/recycle/guides/shortest.html
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/03/10/proper-waste-disposal-pho_n_491672.html
Thursday, April 29, 2010
April Energy Ideas
Thanks to Steve from DOPL for this article about how printer font might affect our costs: http://www.standard.net/topics/business/2010/04/06/heres-legal-way-print-money-change-font
Thanks to Al in DPU for information regarding the SEER rating of central air conditioners. Each central air conditioning unit is given a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating), which tells us how much cooling the unit gives for each watt of electricity. As of January 2006, an air conditioner must have a SEER of at least 13 to be sold in the United States. Higher efficiency models have a SEER of up to 21. Below are some links that explain the SEER rating and provide helpful information to consumers when selecting an air conditioning unit:
http://www.trane.com/Residential/Getting-Started/Efficiency-Savings
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seasonal_energy_efficiency_ratio
Thanks to Al in DPU for information regarding the SEER rating of central air conditioners. Each central air conditioning unit is given a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating), which tells us how much cooling the unit gives for each watt of electricity. As of January 2006, an air conditioner must have a SEER of at least 13 to be sold in the United States. Higher efficiency models have a SEER of up to 21. Below are some links that explain the SEER rating and provide helpful information to consumers when selecting an air conditioning unit:
http://www.trane.com/Residential/Getting-Started/Efficiency-Savings
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seasonal_energy_efficiency_ratio
Monday, April 19, 2010
4/22/10 Free Electronics Recycling & A COOL LINK
E-WASTE RECYCLING
Thursday, April 22nd - 7:30 am to 1:00 pm
University of Utah - University Services Building parking lot (immediately west of the Huntsman Center - big basketball dome).
Free and open to the campus community and all Salt Lake City and County residents.
Accepted items include:
Thursday, April 22nd - 7:30 am to 1:00 pm
University of Utah - University Services Building parking lot (immediately west of the Huntsman Center - big basketball dome).
Free and open to the campus community and all Salt Lake City and County residents.
Accepted items include:
- Televisions (with digital TV conversion it's time to get rid of that old set!).
- Computer Monitors of all kinds
- Computers and Computer Peripherals
- Audio/Stereo Equipment
- VCRs, DVD players
- Video Cameras
- Telephones, Fax and Copying Machines
- Cellular Phones
- Wireless Devices
- Video Game Consoles.
All items will be responsibly recycled by Metech Recycling: http://www.metechrecycling.com/utah.htm
Check out this very cool site where you can search by items you want to recycle and it will give you locations in Utah where you can recycle the items: https://utahrecycles.org/recyclingguide.php.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
April 20, 2010 - Green Fair Details
GREEN FAIR 2010
Sponsored by Utah Attorney General’s Office and Department of Commerce
Sponsored by Utah Attorney General’s Office and Department of Commerce
TUESDAY, APRIL 20, 2010 - 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Heber M. Wells Building - First Floor Conference Room
Experts on the entire gamut of energy and resource-conserving resources, green and healthy commuting, and environmentally sound landscaping—one-on-one Q & A
Compact-fluorescent-bulb-for-incandescent-bulb exchange—Cookies and prizes!
FEATURED ORGANIZATIONS
Rocky Mountain Power — Rebate programs, home energy analysis planning
Jordan Water Conservancy District — Water-wise landscaping, water auditing
Utah Transit Authority — Rideshare program, bicycle commuting partnerships
Energy Office (DFCM) — Personal office appliance energy assessment
Division of Fleet Services — Alternative vehicles, fuel efficient driving practices
Salt Lake City Bicycle Collective — Safe riding practices, public transport access
Division of Water Resources — Water resource supply and conservation
Questar Gas — Weatherization and appliance rebates
National Energy Foundation — Energy efficiency commitment
Heber M. Wells Building - First Floor Conference Room
Experts on the entire gamut of energy and resource-conserving resources, green and healthy commuting, and environmentally sound landscaping—one-on-one Q & A
Compact-fluorescent-bulb-for-incandescent-bulb exchange—Cookies and prizes!
FEATURED ORGANIZATIONS
Rocky Mountain Power — Rebate programs, home energy analysis planning
Jordan Water Conservancy District — Water-wise landscaping, water auditing
Utah Transit Authority — Rideshare program, bicycle commuting partnerships
Energy Office (DFCM) — Personal office appliance energy assessment
Division of Fleet Services — Alternative vehicles, fuel efficient driving practices
Salt Lake City Bicycle Collective — Safe riding practices, public transport access
Division of Water Resources — Water resource supply and conservation
Questar Gas — Weatherization and appliance rebates
National Energy Foundation — Energy efficiency commitment
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
How To Reduce Your Carbon Footprint Video
Here's a link to some good tips: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u7zwrzEyzkA&feature=fvw. Just click on the black screen.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Carbon Footprint
Have you heard about carbon footprints? Have people asked you what your individual carbon footprint is?
Carbon is a significant contributor to global warming through the greenhouse effect. An individual’s carbon footprint is defined by looking at how much of what we do in our lives contributes even a small amount to global warming. It is the amount of carbon dioxide that we each create and use with all the things we do in our lives.
We have been reducing our individual carbon footprint through our recent awareness and efforts here at Commerce and at home - by using CFL lighting and energy efficient appliances, adding insulation, turning off lights and appliances when not in use, walking or biking rather than driving, all the things we have worked on through our monthly campaigns.
Carbon Calculator: There is a cool website where you can calculate your carbon footprint and measure it against the average person in the U.S. Go to http://www.employeegateway.utah.gov/, login with your regular LAN password, click on the “Energy” tab at the top right, scroll down to the “Energy Information and Resources” section on the right column, and click on the first bullet - the “carbon calculator”. Those who complete the calculation and send me and email with their calculations (and how they compare to others) from the page titled “Your Carbon Footprint Result” will have their name in the March drawing of prizes, and THE FIRST TEN people to do this will get a little BONUS.
46 Ways to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint - I found this great article from the Chicago Tribune, which lists a whole lot of things we can do in our daily routine. We already know a lot of it through our campaigns, but I found some really good ideas that I had not thought of, like did you know that using the microwave to cook and heat meals rather than the oven will reduce cooking energy by 80%? Did you know that heating the water for a washing machine uses up 90% of the energy needed to run the machine, while the other 10% goes to power the motor - so just switching to a cold wash saves more than $400 each year. Go to this site for the complete article: http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/fea/home/stories/DN-nhg_wire50greentips_0418liv.ART.State.Edition1.3442c4.html.
Recycling the Unique - thanks to Rick at DTS for giving me a link to this article: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/03/10/proper-waste-disposal-pho_n_491672.html. I think you will enjoy it. Make sure to scroll through the various pictures as each one has more ideas and links. Lots of information for the avid recycler, and we do seem to have some of those folks in our Dept!
Battery Recycling Here at Commerce - thanks to Maxine McBurnett at Corporations who has been the recycler of batteries for her group at Corporations. Maxine has a box in her cubicle for all who bring their dead batteries, and she takes them to a local recycler when the box is full. I started taking my batteries to her, and she is kind enough to agree to take yours too. Now that we know Maxine is collecting batteries, I am sure we will all think twice before throwing a battery in the trash.
Okay, get those carbon footprints done and send me a note - hope you are one of the first ten to send me an email and get the bonus. If you are not one of the first ten, no worries, you will still be eligible for our end of the month drawing.
Happy calculating!
Carbon is a significant contributor to global warming through the greenhouse effect. An individual’s carbon footprint is defined by looking at how much of what we do in our lives contributes even a small amount to global warming. It is the amount of carbon dioxide that we each create and use with all the things we do in our lives.
We have been reducing our individual carbon footprint through our recent awareness and efforts here at Commerce and at home - by using CFL lighting and energy efficient appliances, adding insulation, turning off lights and appliances when not in use, walking or biking rather than driving, all the things we have worked on through our monthly campaigns.
Carbon Calculator: There is a cool website where you can calculate your carbon footprint and measure it against the average person in the U.S. Go to http://www.employeegateway.utah.gov/, login with your regular LAN password, click on the “Energy” tab at the top right, scroll down to the “Energy Information and Resources” section on the right column, and click on the first bullet - the “carbon calculator”. Those who complete the calculation and send me and email with their calculations (and how they compare to others) from the page titled “Your Carbon Footprint Result” will have their name in the March drawing of prizes, and THE FIRST TEN people to do this will get a little BONUS.
46 Ways to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint - I found this great article from the Chicago Tribune, which lists a whole lot of things we can do in our daily routine. We already know a lot of it through our campaigns, but I found some really good ideas that I had not thought of, like did you know that using the microwave to cook and heat meals rather than the oven will reduce cooking energy by 80%? Did you know that heating the water for a washing machine uses up 90% of the energy needed to run the machine, while the other 10% goes to power the motor - so just switching to a cold wash saves more than $400 each year. Go to this site for the complete article: http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/fea/home/stories/DN-nhg_wire50greentips_0418liv.ART.State.Edition1.3442c4.html.
Recycling the Unique - thanks to Rick at DTS for giving me a link to this article: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/03/10/proper-waste-disposal-pho_n_491672.html. I think you will enjoy it. Make sure to scroll through the various pictures as each one has more ideas and links. Lots of information for the avid recycler, and we do seem to have some of those folks in our Dept!
Battery Recycling Here at Commerce - thanks to Maxine McBurnett at Corporations who has been the recycler of batteries for her group at Corporations. Maxine has a box in her cubicle for all who bring their dead batteries, and she takes them to a local recycler when the box is full. I started taking my batteries to her, and she is kind enough to agree to take yours too. Now that we know Maxine is collecting batteries, I am sure we will all think twice before throwing a battery in the trash.
Okay, get those carbon footprints done and send me a note - hope you are one of the first ten to send me an email and get the bonus. If you are not one of the first ten, no worries, you will still be eligible for our end of the month drawing.
Happy calculating!
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Learn To Ride Day - Friday, February 12
Governor Herbert, joined by mayors from across the Wasatch Front are asking Utahns to take the "Clean Air Challenge," doing things like using public transit or carpooling, reducing idling of our vehicles, installing more energy efficient appliances, and saving energy at work and home.
UTA came on board recently to offer a Learn to Ride Day when Utahns can ride buses, trax or Frontrunner for free and can determine whether use of public transit will work for them. See http://www.rideuta.com/mediaRoom/pressReleases.aspx?pressReleaseID=1029
and http://www.utah.gov/governor/news_media/article.html?article=2954.
Please take advantage of this the Learn to Ride Day, and give an alternate mode of transportation a try!
UTA came on board recently to offer a Learn to Ride Day when Utahns can ride buses, trax or Frontrunner for free and can determine whether use of public transit will work for them. See http://www.rideuta.com/mediaRoom/pressReleases.aspx?pressReleaseID=1029
and http://www.utah.gov/governor/news_media/article.html?article=2954.
Please take advantage of this the Learn to Ride Day, and give an alternate mode of transportation a try!
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Recycling Ideas, Links, Quiz Answers and More
Recycling Used Oil
(Thanks for this info, Van!)
Are you a Do It Yourself (DIY) mechanic? Do you change your own car motor oil? What do you do with the used motor oil? I recycle mine at the local auto parts store.
The Used Oil Management Act under the Utah Environmental Quality Code imposes a recycling fee on sales of oil in Utah, $.04 per quart or $.16 per gallon. This fee is used to support and encourage used oil collection centers. Collection centers then transport collections to a used oil processor, rerefiner, or burner, or they may dispose of the oil as authorized by the Solid and Hazardous Waste Board.
Auto part stores and some auto garages have become collection centers for DIY mechanics, thus making it easy for all DIY to recycle used oil. All a DIY has to do is take a few minutes and collect the oil in a container, then take it to any collection center and deposit it into their collection bin. Remember there is no fee at the collection center; you paid the fee when you bought the oil. The collection center may ask for your name, address and amount of used oil deposited.
Recycling Links - Here are some great links that can answer your many recycling questions:
Why Recycle? https://utahrecycles.org/whyrecycle.php
Recycling Statistics - how much do Americans throw away: https://utahrecycles.org/facts.php
2008 Salt Lake Valley Recycling Guide, recycling the usual and unusual items: http://www.recycle.slco.org/pdf/recyclingGuide.pdf
Salt Lake City's Official Site on Recycling http://slcgov.com/slcgreen/recycle/todo.htm, includes many great links and ideas, like how to reduce personal and business junk mail http://www.globalstewards.org/junkmail.htm (Thanks Chip for providing me these links!)
The Inconvenient Truth Excerpt:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jxi-OlkmxZ4&feature=related
Top 10 Things You Can Do to Reduce Global Warming: http://www.google.com/search?source=ig&hl=en&rlz=1G1GGLQ_ENUS352&q=top+10+things+you+can+do+to+reduce+global+warming&aq=0&aqi=g1&oq=top+10+things+you+can+do+t
Quiz Answers:
1. False. Plastic bags can be recycled into lumber (TREX), trash can liners and other plastic bags. The good news: Many grocery stores collect clean, dry platic bags for recycling and offer canvas tote bags for sale and reuse.
2. True. All parts of a newspaper can be recycled, including all inserts and newsprint grade periodicals.
3. False. You can recycle aluminum food and beverage containers, including aluminum foil and pie tins, if there is no food residue on them. You dont' have to wash your recyclables in a dishwasher. Just make sure they're clean, empty and dry. Dirty products are a waste of time.
4. True. The majority of cardboard boxes end their lives in an alley behind a store somewhere - clean and in one place - ready to transport to a paper mill. About 70 percent of newspapers now get recycled - usually into more newspapers.
5. True. Metals get great return rates. That's why thieves have put their own twist on the ECO trend - ripping copper out of old buildings and reselling it for hundreds of dollars to scrap yards. Almost 55 million cans are recycled in the US each year, equal to 15 million barrels of foreign crude oil.
6. False. SL County accepts empty aerosol cans.
7. True. Be sure to remove the caps before recycling. They must be recycled separately at the recycling plants in Salt Lake County, so it is easier if you separate them.
8. False. It is necessary to remove tape from cardboard boxes. Tape cannot be recycled and contaminates recycled materials.
9. False. Most communities in Salt Lake County accept #1 - #7 plastics.
10. True. Allow air into your compost pile by occasional turning. Do not add meat, fish, dairy products, or fat.
11. False. Who would work there! Cigarette butts also fall into this category. Remember the clean and dry rules.
12. True. In a landfill, glass will last one million years! There are seven drop off locations for glass in SL County. (Plastic bags will last 500-1000 years, aluminum cans 80-500 years, and an apple core 1-2 months).
13. True. Check out: www.sanitation.slco.org/html/recycle.html.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Recycling Fed Ex & UPS Tyvek Envelopes
I was recently asked about whether we can recycle the nylon type Tyvek envelopes that we get from Fed Ex and UPS. The answer is yes, we can. Interestingly, Tyvek envelopes are actually plastic. See this informative site: http://fakeplasticfish.com/2007/10/recycling-tyvek-another-small-way-to/. However, even though they are plastic, Columbus Secure Shredding wants us to put them in our regular blue bins rather than our plastic specific bins.
If you have addresses on the envelopes that need to be shredded due to privacy concerns, put them in the gray bins.
Finally, if you are creative, the link above indicates that these Tyvek envelopes would make a great shopping tote bag. I might have to give it a try.
Thanks for your question, Maxine!
If you have addresses on the envelopes that need to be shredded due to privacy concerns, put them in the gray bins.
Finally, if you are creative, the link above indicates that these Tyvek envelopes would make a great shopping tote bag. I might have to give it a try.
Thanks for your question, Maxine!
Broken CFL - Mercury Cleanup
I was recently asked how to deal with a CFL that has broken and is leaking mercury.
Here is a really good website with great links for mercury cleanup and a search by zip code for where to recycle CFLs (most Home Depots will take them): http://www.deq.utah.gov/Pollution_Prevention/CFLs.htm.
Thanks for your question, Barbara!
Here is a really good website with great links for mercury cleanup and a search by zip code for where to recycle CFLs (most Home Depots will take them): http://www.deq.utah.gov/Pollution_Prevention/CFLs.htm.
Thanks for your question, Barbara!
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
January Campaign - Recycling
Recycling Cans and Bottles - In addition to the paper recycling bins in each Division, there are now boxes/bins labeled for cans and plastic bottles in the common areas (break rooms) of DOPL 4th floor, CORP 2nd floor, DRE, DCP, Admin, DPU, and DS. There are also bins/boxes on the 4th floor by the elevators nearest DPU, on the 2nd floor break area, and on the first floor docking garage. I am looking into getting some can crushers.
Soda tabs - Please take a second and separate the tabs from the cans so that we can donate the tabs to the Ronald McDonald House. In 1987, McDonald's began collecting pop tabs as a way to help defray operating costs. Ronald McDonald houses are inexpensive family lodging located near hospitals. Families of sick children stay there so as to be close to their hospitalized child. In the last year, pop tabs taken to local recycling companies brought the Utah Ronald McDonald House $8,000. For more information about Ronald McDonald Houses: http://www.rmhcslc.org/.
Drawing - How do you qualify for this month's drawing? Contact me if you are willing to help with the recycling of cans and plastic bottles; implement other recycling ideas in your Division; and/or attend this month's brown bag. This month's Brown Bag will be held on Thu, January 14th at 11:45 in the 2nd floor lunch room. Fun recycling quiz and more recycling information.
Columbus Recycling Gray & Blue Bins - Here are detailed lists of what you can and cannot place in the gray and blue recycling bins:
Gray Bins
-All paper
-carbonless (NCR)
-thermal fax
-envelopes
-direct mailings
-fax, brochures, advertising
-file folders
-credit cards
-ID cards
-computer discs and CDs
(staples, paperclips, binder clips, and sticky notes are all okay)
Blue Bins
-All paper
-carbonless (NCR)
-thermal fax
-envelopes
-direct mailings
-fax, brochures, advertising
-file folders
-newspapers
-magazines
-catalogs
-phone books
-tv guides
(staples, paperclips, binder clips, and sticky notes are all okay)
-cardboard (IF flattened), tablet backing
Items below CANNOT be placed in either blue or gray bins:
*stickers (full sheets)
*wax or plastic coated papers
*carbon
*food wrappings
*paper towels/TRASH
*cups, plates, forks, spoons, etc
*rubber gloves
*medical supplies or devices
***We can use a blue Columbus bin for plastic bottles in bins that are marked for plastic bottles - there is only one like that in Commerce that I am aware of - it's on the 4th floor by the vending machines. (Separate the bottle lids from the plastic bottles, it is easier for recycling companies to separate them for recycling).
For more information as to recyling in Utah, go to this link: www.utahrecycles.org
Soda tabs - Please take a second and separate the tabs from the cans so that we can donate the tabs to the Ronald McDonald House. In 1987, McDonald's began collecting pop tabs as a way to help defray operating costs. Ronald McDonald houses are inexpensive family lodging located near hospitals. Families of sick children stay there so as to be close to their hospitalized child. In the last year, pop tabs taken to local recycling companies brought the Utah Ronald McDonald House $8,000. For more information about Ronald McDonald Houses: http://www.rmhcslc.org/.
Drawing - How do you qualify for this month's drawing? Contact me if you are willing to help with the recycling of cans and plastic bottles; implement other recycling ideas in your Division; and/or attend this month's brown bag. This month's Brown Bag will be held on Thu, January 14th at 11:45 in the 2nd floor lunch room. Fun recycling quiz and more recycling information.
Columbus Recycling Gray & Blue Bins - Here are detailed lists of what you can and cannot place in the gray and blue recycling bins:
Gray Bins
-All paper
-carbonless (NCR)
-thermal fax
-envelopes
-direct mailings
-fax, brochures, advertising
-file folders
-credit cards
-ID cards
-computer discs and CDs
(staples, paperclips, binder clips, and sticky notes are all okay)
Blue Bins
-All paper
-carbonless (NCR)
-thermal fax
-envelopes
-direct mailings
-fax, brochures, advertising
-file folders
-newspapers
-magazines
-catalogs
-phone books
-tv guides
(staples, paperclips, binder clips, and sticky notes are all okay)
-cardboard (IF flattened), tablet backing
Items below CANNOT be placed in either blue or gray bins:
*stickers (full sheets)
*wax or plastic coated papers
*carbon
*food wrappings
*paper towels/TRASH
*cups, plates, forks, spoons, etc
*rubber gloves
*medical supplies or devices
***We can use a blue Columbus bin for plastic bottles in bins that are marked for plastic bottles - there is only one like that in Commerce that I am aware of - it's on the 4th floor by the vending machines. (Separate the bottle lids from the plastic bottles, it is easier for recycling companies to separate them for recycling).
For more information as to recyling in Utah, go to this link: www.utahrecycles.org
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