We’ve all heard of recycling, but what about upcycling? Recycling
usually means reusing something again, like plastic bags. Instead of throwing
them away, we use them again for the same purpose. Upcycling is a bit different
because, instead of the same reuse, you use whatever the material that is being
discarded and turn it into something better. It’s like upgrading waste.
Upcycling over Recycling
Waste and the pollution it causes has become a significant problem all
over the world, but people, both collectively in institutions and governments
and as individuals are tackling the problem. Before, most rubbish was sent the tip
directly or deposited in a landfill site, but not anymore. Local councils have
been mostly responsible for rubbish removal, but also private companies have
got into the business. Although local authorities do their best to collect
unwanted waste items, such as paper, plastic, glass, and cans, providing marked
bins, their main focus is on recycling. New rubbish removal companies like
Clearabee, take a different view. They are definitely into upcycling in a big
way. Well over 90% of the rubbish they remove doesn’t even get to the tip, it
is used in upcycling.
Environment Awareness
With more environmental awareness, more recycling has taken place. In
poor countries, recycling is a necessity, but not in the developed world. We
tend just to throw out a product or material that we have used and buy more
when we need it. Have you ever thought about how much of the millions of tonnes
of waste that are produced per year, is yours? Ever thought about turning your
hand to recycling or upcycling?
Handicrafts and Reinvention
One simple example of this is hanging flower or plant pots. Most of us
buy large plastic bottles of liquids, which are destined for one-time use.
Unless you want to fill them again with other fluids, they are thrown in the
rubbish, but with a little time and effort, you can make plant or herb
containers out of them. The way to do it can easily be found in handicraft
shows on T.V., in books from the library or classes. Many local community
centres and even libraries run these classes. YouTube is also an excellent
source for these types of handicrafts, where you can learn creative ways to
turn something unwanted into something, not only useful but beautiful too.
An Easier Solution
Not into handicrafts or good with your hands, but are still
environmentally conscious? In that case, you want to get rid of your garden,
construction or household waste as soon as possible. The refuse collectors come
around on a weekly schedule, but you don’t always want an unsightly pile of
rubbish in your garden or driveway until they arrive. The best solution is to
call a company that specialises in rubbish removal. They not only take it away
but will see its reuse in an environmentally safe manner. These companies take
the work seriously, so there’s no fly-tipping.
A Success Story
Clearabee is one such company. It was founded in 2012 and has multiplied
in business share and reputation ever since. Their slogan ‘A man and a van’ has
proved to be a winner in the area of rubbish removal. In fact, the company
start only with one man and one van. A story of a grassroots business that grew
because of excellent and honest service.
Take Away
The environmental health of the planet has entered the consciousness of
the public, but it is time for individuals to do their own little bit to help. Upcycling can be fun, as well as making you feel you are doing your “bit”.