By now, it is probably safe to say most of you have at least heard of or are vaguely familiar with the term ‘upcycle’ but ,what exactly is it?
Upcycling – What Is It?
Upcycling in some ways is a form of recycling; however, unlike recycling which typically produces a lower quality end value item (e.g. paper made from recycled paper will produce a lower quality paper as it is broken down and reproduced).
Upcycling is a way to reduce our carbon footprint while retaining the quality and in some cases even increase the originally planned discarded item’s value.
Upcycling provides the opportunity to not only think outside the box but, move valuable resources back up the supply chain ladder thus, keeping them out of our landfills.
So then comes the old adage…….
“One man’s trash is another man’s treasure”
Trash picking, dumpster diving, or whatever title you wish to give it, can not only create beautiful works of art but, it can also be a very beneficial source of information for would be criminals stealing your information, for Law Enforcement to get a warrant against you and just as well for Investigators and Attorneys to use in divorce cases.
So the next time you go to dispose of something ‘think outside the box’ – can this “trash” be used against me? Or, better -maybe your “trash” can become an upcycled work of art birthed from the reuse of those ‘unwanted or no longer useful’ items?
Whether you’re converting trash into a newly revived masterpiece or simply trying ‘dig up some dirt’ sometimes we all need a bit of inspiration – here are a few ideas to help get you started on your upcycling DIY endeavor.
3 EASY UPCYCLING DIY PROJECTS – TURNING TRASH INTO TREASURE
- Not sure what to do with that old muffin tin? How about getting a jump-start on this year’s herb garden – eliminating the need for those expensive plastic seed starter pots.
- Have an old frame laying around? Carefully remove the glass, staple some chicken wire to the back, and VOILA you have a new family message center.
- Old mugs and mason jars painted with chalk paint give new birth and serve a variety of purposes to an item most of us have an abundance of.
Upcycling does not need to be complicated – with a little innovative thinking and creativity you too will be reusing once forgotten about items giving them a renewed life, purpose, and aiding in the reduction of product waste in our landfills. Make do with the gifts you’ve been given- upcycle like there are no tomorrows, and make everyday Earth Day!
Still don’t believe me how one man’s trash is another man’s treasure – check out these recent cases, you may never look at your trash the same.
