What Happens to Your Old Stuff?

Householders can bring a wide range of items to there Civic Recycling Facility or local bring centre for recycling and disposal. These facility are generally for domestic use only and commercial waste is not accepted.

Recyclers can dispose of many different types of recyclable materials in just one visit but there may be a charge depending on the items. It’s best to check with your local centre to determine the cost and what will be accepted and recycled. A list of recycling centres in Dublin can be found here.

So what happens to the material once you bring it to your local recycling centre?

Glass Recycling

Glass bottles and jars are transformed into a cullet in Ireland The cullet is sold to glass manufacturers as a raw material for new glass product like drinks bottles.

Bottle Glass Making

Before this happens, the glass needs to be collected and recycled. Remember, you should empty any liquid from your bottles and jars, remove any lids and caps and leave the labels (lids are mainly metal and can be recycled in the green bin). Please do not place broken plates, cups, saucers, pyrex or drinking containers into your local bottle banks. Just one teacup mixed with glass renders the whole load of mixed glass un-usable!

Plastics, Paper, Cardboard Recycling

Plastics, paper and cardboard are baled and sold to waste brokers on international markets. These balers are shipped to various destinations depending on market condition/price.

Plastics, Paper, Cardboard Recycling

The actual recycling process involves sorting cardboard into different types. Once complete shredding is done to break down the cardboard paper fibres into minute pieces. Once shredded into pieces, it is mixed with water and chemicals to breakdown the paper fibres into pulp. The pulped material is then blended with new pulp, generally from wood chips that ultimately help the resulting substance to solidify after which contaminants like plastics and metals staples are removed. The pulp is de-inked after which it is blended with new production materials and put to dry

Fridges, Freezers Recycling

Fridges and Freezers are shipped to the United Kingdom and other countries in Europe where they are dismantled in a specialist factory which remove the hazardous gases from the fridges and freezers. Usable metals are segregated into ferrous and nonferrous metal fractions.

Fridge / Freezers for Safe Recycling

The metal fractions are put on the market for recycling through the smelting process. The ferrous smelting furnaces we use are producing mostly long products i.e. Rebar or reinforced steel. The nonferrous smelters produce anything from car engines to knives and forks!

E-Waste Recycling (WEEE)

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) is e-waste equipment that is unused, broken or dated. It is important to dispose responsibly of any appliance that runs on electricity (or that contains electrical parts) in order to avoid causing damage to the environment.

Computer System Board

Recycling e-waste involves transport, logistics, large recycling organisations and smaller specialist recyclers:

1. Recycling companies in Ireland currently export many items to countries that have more advanced recycling systems or that can extract components and reusable materials from the waste, e.g. fridge recycling.
2. Recovery facility recover metals and plastics by putting items such as small household appliances through shredders or mills (also known as fragmentizers).
3. Smaller recycling businesses may specialize for example in, computers and metals for safe recycling or component reuse, repair and refurbishment.

To learn more about e-waste recycling in Ireland you can watch this video

Green Waste Recycling

Green waste is biodegradable waste that can be composed of garden or park waste. It includes things like grass clippings, shrub and yard clippings, branches, woodchips, bark, wood, palm trees, branches, and weeds.

Green Garden Waste

Green Waste is transported and recycled at a number of location across Ireland which is listed here It can be turned into compost or Christmas Trees can be chipped for mulch.

Paint Waste

Paint is sent to various facilities in Europe where the paint goes for recovery. For example, in one such facility, it is mixed to sawdust and then used as a fuel in industrial processes.

Paint for Recycling

To recycle your paint, separate tins into two groups: water based paint and oil-based paint. Never mix the two kinds together because they have to be recycled separately. Also, if possible, the paints should be in their original containers, or at least clearly labeled for identification.

Oil-based paints are hazardous and should always be taken to your local paint recyclnig centre so they can be disposed of safely. Choose water-based paints where possible as these are less hazardous. Product choices are widening and there are more “Eco-Friendly” paint options now available. But small amounts and use the tin in full.

You might try  purchasing recovered paint for reuse at the rediscovery centre 

Bulky Waste

Bulk waste goes through a shredder that breaks the various elements in the bulky waste. This shredded material then goes through a series of screens and sorting mechanisms where the fractions that can be recycled are removed (wood, metal, aluminium, etc.). The other fraction is shredded further and turned into Refuse Derived Fuel – a combustible material used in cement kilns. A small portion cannot be used and for incineration.

Bulk Household Waste for Reuse or Recycling

Bulky waste can be domestic waste that is too big for your usual bin collection. Some bulky waste, such as good quality furniture can be donated to charity shops for re-sale or to help residents on low income. Some organisations may be able to come and collect those items for free or at a low cost. Examples of organisations include Age Action. Dublin City Council also operate a bulk waste collection service

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning social enterprise providing recycling collection and drop off services for all types of waste electrical, electronic equipment (WEEE) and pure metal items.

During 2019 Recycle IT operated drop off and collection services to tens of thousands of homes, schools, charities and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of batteries, computers, cables, monitors, kettles, microwaves and screens.

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development, Dormant Accounts Fund, Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Leinster.

For further details about our free and cost-effective services call us on 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit the Recycle IT website at www.recycleit.ie

Recycle IT – Repak Award Winner 2019 – WEEE Champion

 

2020 Electrical Recycling – Residents Groups Recycle Free

The Figures

Ireland has surpassed the EU targets for collection of household electrical items, and for recovery of WEEE of all ten categories. More than 52,300 tonnes of WEEE (all categories, household, and non-household) were collected for treatment across Ireland. More than 47,500 tonnes of WEEE were recovered with 59% of WEEE collected comprising of large household appliances. (Source: EPA Release, 31 January 2018).

Did you know about 69% of the waste electrical and electronic equipment collected was treated in Ireland? (although not necessarily final treatment)

Recycle IT want to encourage householders, families, and children to take action and recycle more old, unwanted or unused stuff from around your home. This includes kettles, cookers, games, batteries, phones, metals, and electronic toys; the list is endless so click here for more. To support we offer free resident association collection in many areas of Dublin.

Recycle IT – Community Electrical Recycling

Recycle IT has a focus on recycling old, once loved electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) and pure metal. If your cooker, hobs or battery-operated toys, radio or phone is broken or surplus to requirements what do you do? Do you leave them to gather dust in the cupboard, attic or garden shed or do you add them to the weekly rubbish? (out of sight, out of mind) Why not consider recycling now! We will except metal including outdoor heaters, bbq’s, old bikes, pots, pans and more…

Impacts

In 2019 Recycle IT visited thousands of homes located on roads and in estated across Dublin and surrounding areas with the average weight of mixed items collected matching the weight of a large tumble-dryer at 40KG. The weight of items safely recycled by our team in 2019 totalled over 700 tons.  Over 4000 people assisted with moving heavy or awkward items directly from homes.

Many of us simply don’t realize that items with a plug or battery can be reused, re-purposed or recycled. So if your TV’s, monitors, laptops or washing machine have become obsolete think about the positive impact you can make by recycling with Recycle IT.  You can help the environment, sustain jobs and create training opportunities by taking part in our resident’s recycling days.

TV Recycling By Recycle IT

12 Reasons to avail of Free WEEE Recycle

1. Recycling conserves resources e.g. metal, plastics, water, fuel.
2. Recycling reduces clutter and creates space.
3. Recycling helps reduce Co2 emissions.
4. Recycling saves energy.
5. Recycling helps protect the environment e.g climate change
6. Recycling reduces landfill.
7. Recycling reduces domestic waste charges.
8. Recycling helps create and maintain local employment.
9. Recycling encourages others in your community to recycle.
10. Recycling using official locations or collections reduces the dumping of waste.
11. Recycling helps our children learn about sustainability so involve your kids.
12. Recycling provides access to materials for repurposing and reuse by others

You can drop off your items free of charge with Recycle IT or arrange a residents association collection for you and all your neighbours once loved electronic toys, laptops, PCs, white goods, kitchen appliances, electric gardening tools, TV’s, old video games consoles and lots more.

Household Electrical Equipment

Once received the items, they can be reused, re-purposed or recycled leading to an overall reduction in the number of electrical items going to landfill or illegally shipped to third world countries. Another real benefit is the fact that our service helps create training and employment opportunities.

What has been achieved in Ireland to date

• 90,000 tons reductions in CO2 emissions from Fridge Freezers.
• 75 million electrical appliances already collected through WEEE Ireland.
• A reduction in harmful batteries ending up in landfill.
• Fewer light bulbs found in domestic waste.
• Increased employment opportunities.
• Better overall environmental awareness.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT an award-winning community recycler wishes to build on Ireland’s recycling success story and help increase the 7.6 kg of waste electronic and electrical equipment recycled per person, per year. We are inviting resident associations and community groups including tidy towns to speak with us about arranging a FREE collection in your area over the coming months.

Our recycling service is provided FREE to resident associations and communities in South Dublin, Dublin City and Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown with surrounding areas in Wicklow and Kildare also serviced so please give us a call to learn more and arrange a residents collection for your area.

Please call us on 01 4578321 or email info@recycleit.ie.

Remember dropping into our site in Clondalkin is also FREE, Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 3pm. We can also arrange a cost-effective personal collection within a few days of order. Call 014578321 now for more information

Recycle IT is supported by Dormant Accounts to deliver our scheduled community and residents recycling collection service.

Dormant Accounts Funded 2019

Recycling Christmas Trees in Dublin

Christmas Trees can be recycled for FREE in 2020

As the festive season comes to an end after New Years, Recycle IT  are encouraging you to Recycle and Reuse your Christmas Tree and whatever you do don’t throw your tree in a bin or leave it for your bin service to collect!  You can easily recycle for reuse locally with many local authorities providing drop off points across each county.

Christmas Tree Recycling 2020

We acknowledge local areas are offering different services, but after reading this post you should be able to find a Christmas tree recycling centre close to your home in Dublin!

It also worth noting if you have old or damaged Christmas Lights Recycle IT will accept them. All lights, old or damaged, large or small, internal or external can be dropped off free of charge from January 6th 2020 – Learn more here

Some Interesting Facts 

Before you click the links below you might as well learn some facts on what can be done with your trees after the holiday. Kids love this stuff!

• Real Christmas trees are often chipped into mulch at a local recycling centre
• Mulch is reused in for animal bedding or wooded areas or local parks.
• Remember it takes time to grow a tree, with a tree  6 to 7 feet taking on average 7 years to grow.
• Recycled real Christmas trees have been used to make sand and soil erosion barriers and been placed in ponds for fish shelter.
• Growing Christmas trees provides a habitat for wildlife.
• Christmas trees can remove dust and pollen from the air.
• Christmas trees have been used to rebuild housing structures for natural wildlife that has been destroyed through development.
• Artificial trees will last on average for six years in your home, but for centuries in a landfill.
• An acre of Christmas trees provides the daily oxygen requirements of 18 people.
• You should not burn your Christmas tree in the fireplace; it can contribute to creosote buildup.
• Recycle IT recycle the old electrical decorations with tons of old lights, cables, plugs and batteries arriving each year – keep them coming!

List of Christmas Tree Recycling Centres 

All the County Council areas in Dublin make arrangements for  Christmas Tree recycling services starting early January 2020 and running right up to the middle of January 2020.

This service is free and is usually for domestic household trees only.  Usually, one tree per household/vehicle will be accepted.  Signage will be placed at the various locations indicating that it is an official recycling point. For a list of locations near you please see below

Christmas Tree Recycling  2019 / 2020

Christmas Tree Recycling Centres in Dublin City and County 

You can click here to view a list of Dublin locations where Christmas Trees can be recycled in 2020

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning not for profit social enterprise providing a collection and drop off service for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). During 2019 Recycle IT provide drop off services and collection services to thousands of homes, communities, and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of lights, computers, cables, monitors, microwaves and televisions.

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT are supported by South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

Visit our website for further details about recycling old electrical items or call 01 4578321 to book a collection in the New Year!

Happy New Year from all the Recycle IT team

Recycle IT – Repak Award Winner 2019/2020- WEEE Champion

Light up Christmas – Green the Lights

Some Facts on Christmas Lights!

Over many generations and into the 20th-century candles of all shapes and sizes were the preferred Christmas lights across Ireland. The dangers of mixing flickering flames with drying needles from real Christmas trees was accepted in order to make homes and communities brighter places for a few days in December each year!

Lighting Up Christmas 

The earliest manufactured Christmas lights were made of blown glass or porcelain and appeared on Christmas trees in the homes of wealthy people in the 1800’s. In the early 1900s, it was fashionable to buy hand-painted bulbs shaped like animals and flowers.

As you can imagine the general public at first didn’t trust electric lights as a safe alternative to candles, but that changed after  US President, Grover Cleveland erected the first Christmas tree with electrical lights in 1895. With more than 100 multicoloured bulbs, the brightly coloured tree got the attention of people across the USA, and illuminated Christmas trees soon became the rage all over the world, —if you could afford one!

Changes

This year lots of families in cities, towns and communities across Ireland will be switching on new Christmas light. Today most of these light will be LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights which mean traditional lights are no longer favoured.

Dublin Christmas Lights

DIY Lights

We suggested finding a new use for your old lights so why not start today.  You will find some awesome DIY ideas for reusing/recycling old light and bulbs at www.brit.co   The team at brit have listed lots of tips with pictures which demonstrates what can be achieved. Whether you’plan to turn light bulbs into small vases or cover it with glitter to masquerade as a festive pear, these versatile pieces of glass can be reused anywhere.

Christmas lights can be reused at other times of year.  You and your kids can make some of the lights covers in the shape of Valentine Hearts, Easter Bunnies or Halloween Pumpkins and you have colourful decorations for many different celebrates or festivals

New Lights

Today LED lighting offers many benefits and features that were difficult,  if not impossible, to offer with old lighting used over many generations. These benefits, include enhancing operating energy leading to cost reductions, longer life and lower overall heat generation. Others benefits include appearance productivity and reduce temperatures produced by LEDs. You can read more below!

1. Most LED lights cost only little more than traditional Christmas lights and glow brighter.
2. By changing to LED lights you will save on electricity during the festive season.
3. A longer life span means lower carbon emissions. LED Lights last up to six times longer than other types of lights, reducing the requirement for frequent replacements.
4. Strings of LED light can be much longer than traditional lights
5. New LED lights generally stay cooler which is deemed safer.
6. LED lights now create the glow of incandescent light or traditional fairy lights so you can relive memories of years ago.
7. LED lights contain no toxic elements, therefore, they help to protect the environment and reduce toxic waste created by traditional Christmas lights.
8. 95% of the energy in LED lights is converted into lighting with only 5% wasted as heat.

Reused and Recycled Lights

Before you buy lights this festive season, it’s important to compare your options and find out the type of lighting works best for you and your home. Whether it’s incandescent lighting or LEDs you choose. Remember LEDs can save you money and reduce energy consumption which is a positive for the pocket and the environment.

Recycling Lights

Whether its old indoor, outdoor, coloured or white lights, you should try to reuse or recycle. Old lights and other unused Christmas illuminations should not left sitting in boxes in the store, shed or garage. They’ll usually never shine again once replaced by newer alternatives. In reality, unused items creates unnecessary clutter which will need to cleared in the future.

If you do decide to recycle your old lights please do so in an environmentally friendly way. Recycle IT are happy to collect old lights and other electrical or electronic items or you can drop them off with our recycling team. You can also drop them at your local recycling or bring centre. 

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is a not for profit social enterprise providing a collection and drop off service for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). Yearly Recycle IT offered to drop off and collection services to 100,000 homes and organisations across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of computers, televisions, toasters, cables, lawnmowers, monitors, microwaves and kettles.

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT are supported by South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

Visit our website for further details.

Christmas Greetings from Recycle IT

25 Christmas Tips Waste Not – Want Not!

Care, Share, Reuse and Recycling

Christmas is a time for caring, sharing and giving with Irish families around the country embracing this tradition each year. It is also traditional for Irish people to travel a lot, shop a lot and eat like lords and ladies over the festive season, more so than at any other time during the year.

Yet, at this time, it’s important to remember our environment and keeping it safe and clean so everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of crisp festive winter days.  We want to encourage fun, sharing, celebration, rest and relaxation but with a message of reduce, reuse and recycle over this festive season.

We have assembled 25 festive tips which will help you to reduce the environmental impact of Christmas and save a little money at the same time!

Have a read of our 25 tips which will take you to Christmas Day 2019

1. Cut up your old Christmas cards and use as present labels.
2. Bring reusable bags to help with the Christmas shopping.
3. Use non-disposable items such as rechargeable batteries
4. Buy brown wrapping paper, forget and don’t use plastic tape to seal!
5. Try using Christmas cards printed on recycled paper.
6. Try to reuse envelopes by sticking new labels over the address to send again.
7. Make your own cards with the kids
8. Send an electronic Christmas card to distance family instead of posting one.
9. Buy gifts with limited packagings like vouchers or tickets.
10. How about trying an artificial Christmas tree – they last for years.
11. When sourcing a real Christmas tree, make sure they can be shredded or composted after Christmas.
12. Choose a present of antique art, silver or jewellery, promote reuse
13. Buy second-hand items as presents e.g. bikes, electronic games, games table or a dolls house.
14. Source unwrapped fruit and vegetables to reduce plastic waste.
15. When preparing your seasonal vegetables, peelings can be composted (just scrape the plates)
16. Take unused or surplus food to food banks before, during and after Christmas. Click here for more information
17. Buy soft drinks in glass bottles rather than plastic & recycle the glass.
18. Recycle plastic and metal packaging including bottles and cans.
19. Stuff your shoes with old wrapping paper to help keep their shape or dry them out.
20. Don’t use paper plates, plastic cutlery or paper table clothes
21. Order your food online, save time and the environment
22. Buy a gift that will last.
23. Reuse last year’s Christmas Jumper & Santa Hat for the office party.
24. Bake a Christmas cake & make treats like jams, biscuits or chutney.
25. Separate old electrical items and batteries from general waste and recycle earlier in 2020.

 Recycling isn’t just for Christmas. 

If you receive a gift that just isn’t to your taste, try to re-gift’ it to someone you know will enjoy it.  Charities will also happily accept donations of unused items.  Many people will receive great Christmas presents which will replace old or damaged electronic gadgets. You can recycle the old items at either your local recycling centre or at the shop where your electrical present was purchased.

Recycle IT – Christmas Gifts

Finally, adopting a Kris Kringle-style approach with family and friends will allow you to focus time and money on arranging an outstanding present for just one other person, instead of having to buy lots of small gifts which can create lots of waste!

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning not for profit social enterprise providing a collection and drop off service for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). Over the last 178 months Recycle IT offered to drop off and collection services to 110,000 homes, schools charities,  and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of computers, cables, monitors, microwaves televisions and more.

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT are supported by South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow. Recycle IT is part-funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development under the community service programme and dormant accounts fund both managed by Pobal.

Visit our website for further details.

Merry Christmas from all the Recycle IT team.

Recycle IT – Repak Award Winner 2019 – WEEE Champion

Managing Clutter – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle this Christmas

Reduce stress this Festive Season

Nights out, work deadlines, parties, family engagements and lots of other competing responsibilities can cause lots of stress in our daily lives around the festive season. The build-up of clutter around your home is another cause of stress.

Research shows that clutter can be a hidden stress factor both at home and work. One of the biggest offenders includes electrical clutter as we are buying new gadgets all the time.

Our aim is simple, reduce, reuse or recycle your excess stuff in order to reduce stress and increase your spare time. No more moving old and once useful stuff from one location to another, therefore, more time for you and your family.

When gifting this Christmas maybe ask family and friends about their needs or give events (concerts or plays) as gifts to reduce clutter!

Lots of Lights

Research by Lloyd’s TSB suggests homes are now packed to the roof with clutter. The most cluttered room in the house is the main bedroom, followed by spare bedrooms with generation x aged between 35 and 44 hoardings the most. Why is this?

In Ireland a 2015 study found that on average two in five Irish adults (38%) consider themselves to be hoarders, meaning more clutter (Source: Empathy Research)  Further research commissioned by NESTA outlined 58% of respondents found it hard to get rid of their possessions.

The National Association of Professional Organizations shows there is a direct correlation between productivity and clutter. Productivity declines when clutter and chaos rise. Piles of paper, unorganised kitchen space or playrooms, old receipts, bills and paperwork stuffed in boxes or drawers will take over your home over a period of time.

Reduce clutter

Clutter is anything we have gathered or collected but have not yet processed or dealt with. Examples include unread books, old electronic equipment, files which have not been filed properly; clothes dropped on the floor, stuff that you no longer need, want or use but you still possess. Remember, clutter is not usually confined to one area can be spread across your home.

Floor Plan

What to do?

Before anything else, make a simple plan with specific and simple goals that will reduce your frustration and stress.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you start de-cluttering your home:

• Make a map or plan of all the rooms and areas with clutter you want to tackle.
• Give each space a grade based on the severity of the clutter. For example, on a scale of 1 – 5 (5 being the most cluttered), a particularly messy room or garage area would get a 5. This will help you prioritise your time.
• Do one room at a time.
• Set finish dates for each area of your clean-up. Be sure to pick dates that are real so you don’t get annoyed.
• Plan time to work on specific areas which may take longer like a garden shed or attic.
• Plan for days you might need help with lifting on moving items.

As you go through the rooms in your house, you will need a system for sorting the items you find. You can create your own method, or you can use boxes as a route to sorting clutter. This method forces you to make a decision item by item, so you don’t end up with a bigger mess than the one you started with.

So find three or four large boxes or storage bins (any type). Label each of them up as follows, 1. Keep, 2. Remove  3. Store. This solution applies to the all physical space you spend your time in on a day-to-day basis: your home, workspace and the car.

Three Boxes – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Once the stuff is in boxes you can decide what you want to do with the items for removal. We have a list of some solutions of which might work for you.

10  things which work! 

1. Sell stuff online, e.g. eBay, Done Deal or Adverts.
2. Repurpose old stuff with some DIY and help from friends.
3. Donate to charity or community organisations.
4. Use items or ask someone else if they can use the items.
5. Gift your items to friends or colleague with an interest in them.
6. Share items free for reuse. Go online or find an exchange network.
7. Don’t hold onto items once they have made the box.
8. Recycle all old electrical, electronic and battery-operated items.
9. Moving forward, recycle stuff immediately when used or end of life.
10. Recycle one day at a time and don’t let the clutter start again.

If you have not used, needed or loved an item in a year or more you most likely don’t need it so let go, recycle it.  If you have worn out or broken items that you haven’t fixed, recycle all.

If you feel guilty at throwing an item away, consider gifting or donating ( based on the condition). This can boost your energy and self-esteem, in addition to getting rid of your clutter.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning not for profit social enterprise providing a collection and drop off service for all types of waste electrical, electronic and metal items. During 2018 Recycle IT offer a drop-off and collection services to homes and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas. Teams collect a range of WEEE which includes thousands of computers, cables, monitors, batteries, microwaves televisions and much more!

The Recycle IT electrical community collection service is provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT are supported by Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

Recycle IT – Repak Award Winner 2019 – WEEE Champion

Reduce your plastic usage this Christmas with 11 Tips

Festive Feelings 

As the festive season approaches its time to wrap up warm, enjoy the bright lights and some good cheer. As you visit the shops you will notice the smells, brightly coloured boxes,  and wrapping on all your favour seasonal delights. This all helps create an emotional link back to memories of Christmas past!

But this Christmas you might consider a change? Consider using fewer plastics, buying less plastic and gifting no plastic items. It will be hard, as you are blitzed at every turn with plastic including dazzling wrapping paper, glitter, boxed seasonal treats and plastic nets of seasonal fruit and vegetables to name but a few!

Household Plastic Waste

Taking Steps 

Work is underway by retailers and governments to take action to stop the production and use of so much plastic. Many organisations are researching alternatives so maybe next year we will be using some of these alternatives. Remember plastic is not bad, there is just too much used and it ends up in every part of the environment.

The Christmas holidays for a lot of people is the season of more so its a really good time to do more with some environmentally friendly actions that can be carried on all year long. There are lots of ways to reduce and reuse many of the things we take for granted especially items left over after big festive get-togethers

Kids Plastic Bricks

We have listed 11 tips below which can help you and the environment this year!

Tips

1: Turn to Tupperware or any reusable containers. Avoid using tin foil, plastic wrap or wax paper to wrap up your leftovers

2: Make your holiday centrepiece out of natural materials such as pinecones, seasonal flowers and leaves, citrus fruits or holly instead of buying plastic displays

3: If you’re serving soft drinks or alcohol, consider locally produced juice and beer in glass bottles or cartons rather than plastic and please use tap water! (Local wine is harder to source!).

4: Use unwrapped local and organic foods as much as possible.

5: Use reusable plates, glasses and napkins.

6: Thinking about gifts, how about reusable coffee cups as they are a gift which keeps on giving.

7: Use brown paper as wrapping paper. It can be reused and easily recycled if you refrain from using plastic tapes to seal the paper!

8: Steer away from plastic decorations, balloons and toys this festive season.

9: Glitter is fun but it’s also plastic – explain its effects to kids including its negative impacts on our oceans and fish life but it looks like there may be a solution for all glitter lovers – take a look  here

10: Remove and leave plastic packaging at the store, it might encourage retailers to stop using so much.

11: Get buy-in for change from your immediate family and share the message with friends and colleagues – we can all make the change together this Christmas.

Plastic by Numbers 

When in the shop’s you can also check the bottom of plastic containers for a recycling symbol, usually a triangle with the number 1 to 7 inside, to see if you can recycle or not. You will find in Ireland that triangle 1, 2 and 5 are accepted for recycling but always check with your local recycler just to be sure.

Triangle 1 and 2 are easily Recyclable

Once you have finished with plastic drinks or food containers Rinse out any leftovers and then squash the containers to save space before recycling. To learn more about plastic recycling by number click here.  You can also visit Repak Ireland to learn more about recycling symbols for items such as glass, plastic, metal, wood and more!

Remember you should never place electrical, battery-operated toys or batteries in the recycle bin (even if they are mainly plastic). They can be recycled safety at an electrical recycling centre near you.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning social enterprise providing recycling collection and drop off services for all types of waste electrical, electronic equipment (WEEE) and pure metal items.

During 2018 Recycle IT operated drop off and collection services to tens of thousands of homes, schools, charities and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of batteries, computers, cables, monitors, kettles.  microwaves and screens.

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development, Dormant Accounts Fund, Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare, and Wicklow.

For further details about our free and cost-effective services call us on 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit the Recycle IT website at www.recycleit.ie

Recycle IT – Repak Award Winner 2019 – WEEE Champion

 

 

Offices – 29 Tips to Reduce Waste and Save!

Green Office – Home Office – Any Office

Office waste mainly consists of electrical, electronic, cardboard, paper, packaging and food waste, all of which can be reused, recycled or composted.

Mixed waste also turns up in the office. Items like glass or plastic bottles, plastic cups, coffee cups, and sandwiches wrappers to name a few. These items can all be segregated and recycled in the office or you could encourage staff to reusable coffee cups or Tupperware.

Office

The benefits of introducing a program of reducing, reuse and recycling include;

• Big euro savings in time on waste disposal costs.
• Boost to staff morale with a focus on reducing, reuse and recycling.
• Demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to the environment.
• Enhanced public perception of your organization as a green organization.
• Promotes a green agenda with your trading partners.

Below you will find some tips that can be easily implemented and integrated into the day-to-day running of the office and office building. They may result in reduced office supplies usage, time ordering and money spent.

General Office

Tips on How to Reduce Office Waste

1. The organisation should be encouraged to go almost paperless by developing a short and simple plan through collaboration!
2. Only print if there is a real need for a hard copy.
3. Use e-mail or instant messages to save paper, time and money.
4. Share team and event calendars.
5. Draft documents can be reviewed on-screen before emailing.
6. Reports and presentation should be electronic only
7. If paper is required, use FSC–certified paper
8. Research purchasing printers which print double-sided copies only.
9. Photocopy and print double-sided.
10. Scrap paper can be used to make note pads to take phone messages.
11. Introduce a centralized office filing system. This reduces multiple files,
12. Enable the reuse of paper envelopes by putting a label on top of the old address.
13.  Cut down on excess equipment sitting in the store, going out of date, e.g. electrical and electronic office equipment.
14. Regularly service office equipment, particularly computers, photocopiers, and printers, to prolong their lifespan.
15. When equipment reaches its end of life use a registered and licensed electrical and electronic recycler to ensure equipment is safely made ready for reuse and recycling.
16. Employees should regularly empty out their desk and return any unwanted office supplies to the stationery cupboard.
17. Free or fee-based online newspaper subscription can reduce the amount of paper to be recycled.
18. Cancel any unwanted magazine or newspaper subscriptions to avoid unwanted waste accumulating.
19. Reuse binders and file folders.
20. Office announcements can be posted online, sent via email or posted once in a centralized monitor or TV screen.
21. Consider renting office equipment that you use only occasionally rather than having to store it in the workplace.
22. Encourage colleagues to bring lunch to work in reusable containers.
23. Encourage management to have reusable silverware, plates and cups and a small coffee station in the office.
24. Research and purchase products with less packaging or with no packaging at all.
25. Offer filtered water rather than a water cooler.
26. Give your team a reusable water bottle.
27. Offer secure bike parking.
28. Source used office desks and lockers (if required).
29. Unplug office equipment when not in use or overnight.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Office Waste

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning social enterprise providing recycling collection and drop off services for all types of waste electrical, electronic equipment (WEEE) and pure metal items.

During 2018 Recycle IT operated drop off and collection services to tens of thousands of homes, schools, charities and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of batteries, computers, cables, monitors, kettles.  microwaves and screens.

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development, Dormant Accounts Fund, Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare, and Wicklow.

For further details about our free and cost-effective services call us on 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit the Recycle IT website at www.recycleit.ie

Recycle IT – Repak Award Winner 2019 – WEEE Champion

Easy electrical appliance repair is on the way!

Change is Good

Electrical appliances sold in Europe will soon be easier to repair!  This is due to new rules aimed at encouraging manufacturers to design products with the circular economy in mind.

A circular economy is an alternative to our linear or straight-line economy in which we make, use, and dispose of items.  In a circular economy, we will keep resources in use for as long as possible, extract the maximum value from them whilst in use, then recover and regenerate products and materials at the end of each service life. (Source: Wrap)

The Circular Economy: Source WRAP

Ecodesign

Ecodesign aims to promote reparability which can hopefully increase the lifespan of appliances. Ecodesign measures will facilitate product repair by ensuring the availability of spare parts over a long period of time after purchase (potentially 7 to 10 years).

The new Ecodesign Directive is in part an EU response to customer complaints about the fact that it’s easier and cheaper to buy new electrical appliances than repair them. This is usually due to limited availability of replacement parts, the complexity of the repairs, or the high price of spare parts.

Cookware on Display

Increased Efficiency

The planned changes also include requirements to improve energy efficiency in domestic and business appliances by 2030. This will be achieved through the introduction of more stringent targets to reduce energy consumption while appliances are in use. Ecodesign measures for washing machines, washer-dryers, and dishwashers will also set a maximum use of water per cycle.

These changes will result in a major reduction in CO2 emissions making “a direct contribution to the implementation of the Paris Agreement. It is estimated that consumers across Europe could collectively save €20 billion on energy bills per year from 2030. And there will be water savings, thanks to changes to household washing machines and washer-dryers. Around 711 million m3 of water could be saved per year. (Source: European Commission).

Recycle IT – Washing Machine Recycling

Some Facts

Did you know there are more washing machines in Europe than cars, each typically containing between 30 kg and 40 kg of steel? Build quality and reliability is not the same for every machine, though. According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, longevity is measured in washing cycles, ranging from about 2,000 for entry-level machines to 10,000 for high-quality appliances. The longer a machine remains functional, the lower its lifetime-wash-cost will be.

It’s also worth noting electronic waste made up of discarded electrical or electronic devices is now the world’s fastest-growing source of waste. Around 50 million tonnes are produced each year. But only around 20% is disposed of appropriately. Moving towards a circular economy model, with an emphasis on reusing rather than replacing items, could be one way to tackle the e-waste global challenge.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning social enterprise providing recycling collection and drop off services for all types of waste electrical, electronic equipment (WEEE) and pure metal items.

During 2018 Recycle IT operated drop off and collection services to tens of thousands of homes, schools, charities and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of batteries, computers, cables, monitors, kettles.  microwaves and screens.

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development, Dormant Accounts Fund, Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare, and Wicklow.

For further details about our free and cost-effective services call us on 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit the Recycle IT website at www.recycleit.ie

Recycle IT – JCI Award Winner for Eco-Friendliness 2019

 

Future Jobs & Skills for a Circular Economy

The Change!

Irish professionals will need to re-tool and upskill to meet the demands of Ireland’s transition to a more carbon-efficient and Circular Economy.

A circular economy will require a range of skills including trade and craft skills, such as upholstery, cabinet making, sewing, and general repairs, eco-design, green procurement, supply chain management, and remanufacturing.

Future Jobs & Skills for a Circular Economy Event Poster

Many of these skills have gone into decline so their return would see the creation of new jobs in communities all over Ireland. The event outlined below has a focus on getting started!

Jobs and Skills for a Circular Economy Event

The event will take place on 29th October held in Athlone Institute of Technology will explore the job opportunities a Circular Economy (with particular focus on reuse and repair) presents for Ireland and the skills base we need to develop in order to make the transition.

Featuring Duncan Stewart, Green Alliance, Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Rediscovery Centre, RecycleIT, CIWM, Nevin Economic Research Institute, Wisetek and more, Future Jobs and Skills promises to be an engaging event to kick off this important conversation.

Repair and Reuse

Circular Economy

“As we move towards a circular economy, it’s not enough to focus on business opportunities and the changes businesses need to make. It is vitally important that we identify the types of jobs that will emerge and that we begin to build the required skills in rural areas and small towns, so that the transition to a circular economy is a just transition that benefits communities all over Ireland,” says Joanne Rourke, Regional Resource Efficiency Officer for the Eastern Midlands Waste Management Office.

Claire Downey, Executive for CRNI, says “We can no longer follow this unsustainable ‘take, make and waste’ economic model that makes up the linear economy. At this event, we look forward to initiating the national conversation about the skills and training to build into educational curricula and professional development. This will enable the Irish workforce to deliver on a circular, inclusive and collaborative economy.”

Event Details

This free event will run in Athlone IT from 9.30am to 1.30pm To register please see the Eventbrite link here.

This event is supported by the Eastern Midlands Regional Waste Office, Chartered Institute of Waste Management, Community Reuse Network of Ireland, Athlone IT and Midlands Regional Skills Forum.

For media inquiries or to arrange an interview contact: Christine Costelloe, CRNI’s Funding and Communications Manager, at  Tel: 087 369 0396 or Email: christine@crni.ie

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning social enterprise providing recycling collection and drop off services for all types of waste electrical, electronic equipment (WEEE) and pure metal items.

During 2018 Recycle IT operated drop off and collection services to tens of thousands of homes, schools, charities and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of batteries, computers, cables, monitors, kettles.  microwaves and screens.

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development, Dormant Accounts Fund, Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare, and Wicklow.

For further details about our free and cost-effective services call us on 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit the Recycle IT website at www.recycleit.ie

Shared by Recycle IT

October 2019 is Reuse Month!

Reuse Month 2019

Reuse Month is a nationwide initiative run throughout the month in October and is packed with events to help you explore what reuse and repair are all about and why they contribute to climate action and social inclusion.

Reuse Month 2019 Launch Event

We are delighted to share news on three flagship events being organized by CRNI in partnership with the Regional Waste Authorities.

• Sustainable style will ‘take-off’ at the Sligo Airport
• Circular and Social in Cork
• Future Jobs and Skills for a Circular Economy

You can read and learn more about these three events here. While on the webpage have a look at the reuse toolkits. They are designed to inspire individuals, communities and businesses to take action and reuse more.

More about Reuse Month

National Reuse Month is an annual initiative to raise awareness about the economic and environmental benefits of reusing everyday items and materials that would otherwise go to waste. Throughout October, there will be local and regional events all over Ireland to promote ways for families, businesses and communities to reuse. Donating, refurbishing and repairing items are all forms of reuse and offer people a chance to save or make money, get creative, learn a new skill and do their bit for the environment.

For example, you may have already reused by getting shoes resoled rather than replacing them or borrowing books from the library. To cut down on waste and greenhouse gas emissions, we asked everyone to go further in October and beyond by prioritizing repair, buying second hand and upcycled, borrowing, swapping and refilling.

Reuse initiatives reduce the volume of waste being discarded while also conserving natural resources, energy, and water. Reuse also offers significant economic benefits by creating jobs and boosting local economies.

Events and activities taking place during October for National Reuse Month include repair cafes, french polishing workshops, bicycle maintenance workshops, furniture revamping workshop, reuse and recycle displays, declutter workshop plus and many more.

Reuse Month Display – South Dublin Country Council

For full details of events happening during National Reuse Month, check out your Local Authority’s website or www.crni.ie/events 

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning social enterprise providing a community, personal and business collection service for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) in Dublin and surrounding counties.

During 2018 Recycle IT offered to drop off and collection services to tens of thousands of homes, schools, charities and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of computers, cables, monitors, microwaves and screens

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by Pobal, Dormant Accounts, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

Recycle IT – Friendly Business Award Winners 2019

 

Going Green this Halloween

Seasonal Festive 

Halloween is an annual event celebrated each year on October 31, and this year Halloween occurs on Thursday, October 31. It is the day before All Saints’ Day and is also sometimes called All Hallows’ Eve

Halloween originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. Over time, Halloween evolved into a day of activities like trick-or-treating, carving jack-o-lanterns, festive gatherings, donning costumes and eating sweet treats.

Try Zero Waste Halloween

My kids are very excited! They keep asking how many weeks left until Halloween?  They love fancy dress, trick or treat visits through the neighborhood and a toffee apple or two but at the same time, this celebration of witches, ghosts and the undead create lots of waste!

Wasting Halloween

Halloween might be a fun time for the family and a good sales opportunity for businesses, but it’s not great for our planet or environment. It helps create tonnes of food waste, mountains of cheap plastic accessories and decorations and bags of never worn again costumes.

The National Geographic Society reports that plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental issues, and the rapidly increasing production of disposable plastic products has overwhelmed the world’s ability to deal with them.

Avoid Wrapped Sweet Treats

Did you know, plastic production increased exponentially, from 2.3 million tons in 1950 to 448 million tons by 2015. Production is expected to double again by 2050.

Halloween is a time when we could make a decision to go plastic-free, with no plastic sweet wrappers, not plastic decorations, no plastic bags and no plastic costumes. We could even go a step further and reduce the amount of sweet consumed!!

According to the Environmental Protection Agency people living in Ireland produce over 15 million tonnes of waste every year. We do this in our homes, our places of work and while undertaking leisure activities such as Halloween events. In 2016, each person living in Ireland produced, on average, 580 kg of municipal waste. This is well above the European average of 487 kg, and this type of waste is particularly difficult to recycle.

It is a real mixture of materials just dropped in the bin; do you think about how you dispose of your waste?

Don’t Waste the Pumpkin

Here are 15 simple tips to help this year 

1: Don’t buy plastic trick-or-treat bags – how about using an old pillowcase.

2: Make the costume at home. 

3: Host a local kids costume swap party prior to Halloween. 

4: Reuse, repurpose or donate old costumes to a charity shop

5: Cut down on sweet treats and particularly sweets in single wrappers. 

6: Bake your treats or make toffee apples at home. 

7: Fruit treats are an excellent idea for Halloween.

8: Eliminate plastic decorations. 

9: Use biodegradable or reusable plates and cups. 

10: Provide homemade finger foods and treats that can be eaten without plates.

11: Dispose of your pumpkin responsibly by composting and feeding to animals.

12: Stay local when trick or treating – no carbon miles required.

13: Use LED mains powered lights rather than battery operated lights 

14: Avoid mass-produced plastic items sold for a euro – it’s waste waiting to happen! 

15: Don’t buy any new bits to decorate the house, use existing items. 

16: If you do buy decorations, buy second hand for reuse! 

Finally 

You don’t immediately think ‘zero-waste when you think about Halloween, but if you plan ahead and consider the above tips, you can have a lower-waste Halloween than last year.  Please do enjoy your Halloween weekend and if your going out on the night stay safe and visible.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning social enterprise providing a community, personal and business collection service for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) in Dublin and surrounding counties.

During 2018 Recycle IT offered to drop off and collection services to tens of thousands of homes, schools, charities and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of computers, cables, monitors, microwaves and screens

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by Pobal, Dormant Accounts, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

Recycle IT – JCI Award Winner 2019

 

 

 

 

 

 

Electrical Recycling for Dublin Charities

Recycling with Charities and Community Organisations

One of the many questions facing all community and voluntary sector managers is how to manage and create space while safely removing and recycling surplus or redundant equipment including metal, electrical and electronic items?

This might include kitchen appliances, lamps, bulbs, batteries, computers, monitors, cables, keyboards, photocopiers, servers, chargers, metal cabinets or racking. The list is really endless and once it builds up it takes up resources.

Recycling is crucial to our world today and taking small steps can have significant benefits for the environment. By taking a lead you can ensure recycling becomes a natural and important part of your organization’s life.

Recycle IT – Computer Equipment Breakdown

Finding a solution 

Organizations sometimes need to find a recycling service which, can offer a safe, timely and environmentally friendly recycling solution.

Recycle IT offer this service and collection is free to charities and community groups. Over the last year, we have worked with hundreds of not for profit organizations across Dublin and surrounding areas to collect and recycle tonnes of equipment. This service is central to the values and culture of our organization and our staff team is delighted to support.

What we do! 

With over 15 years experience and a located just of the M50 Recycle IT can help you recycle all dual-purpose (home and small office) electrical equipment through a drop off when passing or you can book a licensed collection.

We accept many items free yet commercial items such as photocopiers, networked printers, display fridges or production equipment both electrical and metal may incur a recycling fee. To learn more just give us a call or send us a photo and we will get back to you.

Collection Service

Our experienced teams provide a friendly and professional service to organizations and we collect directly from an accessible area in your building and ensure safe recycling of your items.

Free WEEE Recycling Service

Many items collected are broken down into their component parts for processing into new raw materials. Our team can provide affordable physical destruction of hard disk drives and breakdown of other IT equipment upon request.

Our team will also collect items from staff or volunteers as part of any charity collection so please encourage your team to bring along old or damaged electrical items from home!

For further information or to book a collection just call or email us.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is a not for profit social enterprise providing a community collection service for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE).

Over the last 18 months Recycle IT offered collection services to 110,000 homes and organizations across Dublin and surrounding areas. Services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland, with support from South Dublin County Council and South Dublin Country Partnership.

Recycle IT is authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities in Dublin, Kildare, and Wicklow.

Recycle IT as a social enterprise is part-funded through the Community Services Programme operated by Pobal. Any income earned is used to finance operations which include the provision of training and employment opportunities.

Recycle IT – JCI Eco-Friendly Award Winners 2019

 

Autumn Waste Reduction by Recycle IT

Waste Reduction Ideas from Recycle IT

Today more than ever before we understand our planet and how it works. We receive green news updates daily from many different sources and information about the earth, its ecosystems and the impacts of human activity is at our fingertips immediately.

As you know careful management of natural resources will have a long-lasting and positive effect on our environment and our way of life. We all have responsibility for ensuring that our government and local communities work together to protect our environment and our precious resources

Shopping Centre Dublin 

As a starting point Recycle IT looked at a popular pastime in Ireland, “Shopping“.We assembled some tips below which hopefully can help you do an eco-friendly and green shop the next time out!

21 Eco Tips for Shopping

1. Write a list of what you need to buy.
2. Look at your needs versus your wants – ask yourself if you really need the item or really want unnecessary items?
3. Make time to shop around in your area, look for cost-saving and eco-benefits.
4. It’s best not to shop when you’re hungry or stressed.
5. Don’t bring your kids shopping – it is stressful at times and you leave with more wants than needs!
6. Buy fresh fruit & veggies with no packaging or it’s even better if you grow your own!
7. Leave packaging behind. The stores will get the message!
8. When buying a household cleaning product, always read the labels and look for natural and safe alternatives
9. If you think cleaning products are toxic leave them behind.
10. Try buying everyday items in bulk; it reduces the amount of packaging and saves money e.g. rice and pasta.
11. Move to reusable products – avoid single-use products like batteries, nappies, disposable razors, plates or cutlery.
12. Ask yourself some questions when shopping – Is it reliable? Can it be repaired, refilled, reused and restored?
13. How will the product look, feel and function as it gets older? e.g. electrical or electronic items.
14. Consider buying second-hand, hiring / renting or borrowing occasionally used items around the house e.g. share a lawnmower
15. Use your local library to access books, games, movies, and events.
16. Every purchase makes an impact, your pocket as well as the environment so shop wisely and ethically.
17. Plan shopping trips so you don’t have to go out multiple times. This saves time, money and can help reduces CO2 emissions for transport users.
18. Take a reusable bag and your reusable coffee cup on the shopping trip.
19. Always check the origin of fruit or vegetables and try to take an in-season approach.
20.  Avoid or walk straight passed the water bottles aisle.
21. Proactively ask the store staff for paper packaging, your requests will be eventually be heard by management.

Reuse or Biodegradable Shopping Bags

Facts and Change

Kantar World Panel report single-use plastic was a major retail trend over summer 2019, with retailers seeking to adapt to changing consumer preferences.

Charlotte James explains: “Aldi’s ban on black plastic trays for fruit and veg packaging and SuperValu’s move to 100% compostable shopping bags are direct responses to a change in shopper habits.

Eco-Friendly Shopping

Many consumers are already making the shift towards more sustainable choices.  For example, loose fruit sales grew by 6.4% in the latest 12 weeks as pre-packed alternatives declined by 2.3%.  Lidl has made the most headway in this respect and sold 23% of its fruit loose, the highest proportion of all the retailers.”

The Green Shopper 

Shopping with a sustainable mindset can help save money and benefit your eco-friendly principles. Try shopping local, grow your own and source products from businesses with real sustainable values. Stop using single-use plastic and let your retailer know your preference for change! There are lots of small business owners making the effort to be environmentally friendly so keep an eye out and support them when you can!

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning social enterprise providing a community, personal and business collection service for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) in Dublin and surrounding counties.

During 2018 Recycle IT offered to drop off and collection services to tens of thousands of homes, schools, charities and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of computers, cables, monitors, microwaves and screens

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by Pobal, Dormant Accounts, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

Recycle IT – Eco-Friendliness Awards Winners 2019

Recycling Centres close to you in Dublin!

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Recycling in Dublin

In Dublin, you will find a range of recycling services and facilities which will accept old electrical items used at home. As well as reducing the volume of waste going to landfill, these centres help to recycle and compost domestic waste and can you save some money.

Many items used in homes across Ireland can be recycled. The benefits of recycling include a cleaner environment, the safe disposal of hazardous materials, greater awareness of excess packaging and a careful approach to the use and re-use of materials.

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) – Recycle IT

If we take electrical items, there has been approx 75 million waste electrical items recycled since 2005, that’s over 70 electrical items per household in Ireland but 1 in 4 Irish people are still hoarding or putting electrical waste in the bins at home. (Source: WEEE Ireland).

This post is all about encouraging you to recycle electrical items alongside other items at a local recycling centre. By taking action you will save the environment and money so please don’t place the electrical items in the bin (any bin) visit a recycling centre!

We have compiled a list (all on one page) of waste electrical recycling centres and services in Dublin. These are drop off centre for household items. If you need a collection Recycle IT can help. (Home or Business customers)

Recycling Centres in Dublin (Drop Off)

There are recycling centres located across Dublin which will take back household electrical items and lots of other waste items.

Waste by Image

The main centres are listed below:

• Shamrock Terrace Recycling Centre (North Strand) – Tel: 01-836 4716
• Pigeon House Recycling Centre, Ringsend – Tel: 01-614 4750
• Electronic Recycling, Unit 20, Jamestown Business Pk, Finglas – Tel: 01-864 0806 ((waste electrical & electronic equipment only)
• Ballymount Civic Amenity, Ballymount Ave. (Off  the Walkinstown roundabout) – Tel: 01-4621251
• Coolmine Recycling Centre, Coolmine Industrial Estate, Dublin 15.  (Beside Coolmine Fire Station). Tel: (01) 890 5986
• Estuary Recycling Centre, Swords, (beside Swords Business Park)
  Tel: (01) 890 5985
• Ballyogan Civic Recycling Facility, Ballyogan Road, Dublin 18. Tel: (01) 291 3600
• Recycle IT, 14/2 Crag Terrace, Clondalkin Industrial Estate, Dublin  D22   Tel: (01) 4578321 (waste electrical, electronic equipment & metals only)

If you are interested in offering items for reuse you can visit www.freetradeireland.ie

Trade and business waste is usually not accepted at Household Waste Recycling Centres. Recycle IT will support small and medium-size businesses to recycle dual purpose electrical and electronic waste.  It’s always a good idea to call the centres in advance of a recycling visit. The call can ensure to don’t make a wasted trip.

Recycling Services – Collection and Drop Off

Recycle IT support householders, charities, community groups, schools and business with electrical and electronic recycling services in Dublin and the surrounding areas. Services offers are complementary to those offered by the Local Authorities across Dublin.

Services include a free drop off for domestic or dual purpose electrical or electronic equipment with collection services available on request. Collection services are offered free to groups listed above with a cost-effective collection service is offered to business recyclers and or those with an immediate need.

Householders in Dublin City and surrounding areas can also bring their unwanted electrical items (WEEE) to a number of recycling centres promoted or operated by their Local Authority. At these centres, people can dispose of items such as toasters, cookers, kettles, or lamps, really any domestic appliance.

Alternatively, householders can take back WEEE to retailers free of charge. The take-back system usually operators on a one-for-one basis, i.e. you can exchange an old toaster for a new one but it’s usually not possible to return a fridge freezer while purchasing a new hairdryer. A number of large retailers actively promote this scheme so keep an eye out.

Recycling Collection Service – Recycle IT –

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award winning not for profit social enterprise providing a collection and drop off service for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). During 2018 Recycle IT offer to drop off and collection services to 90,000 homes and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of computers, cables, monitors, microwaves, cookers, dryers and TVs and much more.

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT are supported by Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

Recycle IT are a Social Enterprise – Open for Business

Visit our website for further details.

Second Hand September

What are you doing this September? 

Are you going to sign up for Second Hand September 2019, If so just click here and take the challenge!  It’s fairly simple, pledge to say no to new clothes for 30 days. Can we all do that? You will find some reasons to commit below!

Oxfam has launched Second-hand September, a campaign encouraging consumers to not purchase new clothing over the next month. Instead, you can consider reusing old clothing or buying upcycle or second-hand clothes from the many charity shops located around Ireland.

Oxfam wants people to take a 30-day pledge, saying yes to second-hand which stops great clothes from going to landfill and gives them a longer life. It reduces waste, water usage, transportation and harmful environmental impacts related to the production of new clothing.

Did you know, it can take 10,000 liters of water to produce a kilo of cotton. Cotton is a water-dependent crop and uses a large amount of water to produce and process.  The Water Footprint Network estimates that, on average, over 10,000 liters are required to produce 1 kg of cotton fabric – enough for one pair of jeans.  Put another way, the fabric used to make a pair of jeans and a T-shirt uses about the same amount of water as the average person needs to drink for 10 years.

Extend life – one of the most effective ways to reduce your clothing footprint is to wear what’s already in your wardrobe for longer. This means looking after your clothes, washing them less frequently, patching your jeans and darning the holes in your T-shirts. If you don’t know how to darn you can learn, ask your gran or watch a video

Leave new on the shelf – trawl second-hand shops, charity shops, vintage and retro markets for that special item. You will be surprised!

Upcycle, downcycle, recycle – Cotton clothes can be shared and upcycled to make any number of accessories, including jewelry, patches, and bags. If you have unwanted clothes why not send them to charity shops. Whatever state they’re in; even if they can’t be worn again, they’ll be sold for downcycling into cleaning rags and other non-clothing uses.

Clothes

What about microfibres? – the clothing version of plastic microbeads, which have been hearing about in the news. There is increasing concern related to microfibres including how items of clothing shed tiny threads in the wash, which are then washed away and ingested by fish, which some of us eat. Fleece materials and microfibers clothes used in households across the country are considered contributors.

Cloth made from synthetics fabrics such as polyester, rayon, acrylic, nylon, etc. is implicated as the source of water pollution. Microfibers, as the name suggested, are extremely small so they can easily move through our water and sewage treatment plants. Unlike natural fibers, such as cotton or wool, synthetic fibers do not break down which causes challenges for the environment.

Shopping 

Did you know 23,000 tonnes of textiles are processed through Irish Charity Shops Association members yearly all of which is diverted from landfill or incineration? 12,000 tonnes are sold to customers like you and me for wearable reused with 11,000 tonnes sent to textile recyclers. We had a look and found listings for 96 charity shops in Dublin alone so there is no excuse not to sign up for Second Hand September 2019 – lots of clothes to choose from and lots of shops to buy from!

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning, not for profit, social enterprise established to create employment and promote environmental awareness through recycling and reuse. We work in partnership with WEEE Ireland and are authorized by your local authority to provide electrical, electronic and pure metal recycling collections across Dublin since 2007. Recycle IT are fully compliant for WEEE collection with permit detail available here.

Recycle IT – JCI Dublin Eco-Friendly Business Award Winner 2019

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Recycle IT – Friendly Business Award Winner

Social Enterprise wins Friendly Business Award 2019

The Friendly Business Awards is operated and run by JCI Ireland to recognize the pivotal role small businesses play in their local community.

The Friendly Business Awards seek to recognize and celebrate those businesses that go the “extra mile” by continuing to enhance the customer experience without compromising on customer service.

JCI  – A Global Network

As we live in challenging times for small businesses, the aim of the Friendly Business Awards is to celebrate the value small businesses bring to local communities every day and recognize those that excel in serving the needs of the local community and those who play a vital role in its development.

Process

Members of the public can nominate businesses in their locality across each of the categories listed below.  The person or person’s nominating will usually have had a number of good experiences and realize the value the business brings to the community they serve.

Categories:

• Community Impact
• Customer Care
• Digital Experience
• Disability Access
• Eco-Friendliness
• Age-Friendly
• Shop Layout and Design

These businesses are then assessed against a specific set of criteria for each category before being reviewed and adjudicated on by an expert panel. The local winners for each category were announced on the evening of Aug 28th, 2019 in the Mansion House, Dublin with Recycle IT delighted to be named as Eco-Friendliness Category Winner for Dublin.

Recycle IT – JCI Friendly Business Award Winner 2019

Recycle IT believe this award can grow credibility, promote our brand and increase awareness of services offered. It will increase visibility for the organization, draw in new recyclers, enhance morale and confirm the value of our work amongst our staff team. As more people get to know we have been positively recognized for our recycling and environmental efforts it encourages customer loyalty and can increase recycling rates.

Over the last 18 months Recycle IT have recycled over 1000 tonnes of mixed electrical, electronic and metal items as well as upgraded our recycling facility to be increasing eco-friendly in the use of water and energy.

What Next 

Each JCI Branch then puts forward a shortlist of local winners to be considered for JCI Ireland National Friendly Business Awards, which will take place at the JCI Ireland National Convention taking place in Westport, Co Mayo between the 11th to the 13th of October 2019. This year the conference will be hosted by JCI Mayo.

The National Friendly Business Award entries will face a public vote & a judging panel prior to there section as a category winner. There will also be one lucky business selected as the overall JCI Ireland National Friendly Business for Ireland.

About JCI 

JCI (Junior Chamber International) is a non-profit organization and global network of young active citizens aged 18 to 40 from across the globe that is engaged and committed to creating an impact in their communities. JCI provides its members with training and leadership opportunities, networking, social events and projects in their local community, and the chance to develop themselves both professionally and personally.

JCI Dublin Awards Logo

Free School Recycling Collections

Battery, Electrical and Electronic Recycling for Schools, Colleges…

Dublin schools, colleges, and training organizations now have the opportunity to recycle old and once valued electrical, electronic and pure metal equipment.  The service is offered free and is dedicated to reducing large amounts of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) which accumulates in classrooms, canteens, stores, and labs over time.

Recycle IT, is a community based social enterprise, offering a simple and efficient route to recycle disused electrical and electronic items. After collection, items are broken down and recovered materials are processed for use in the manufacture of a new product. Your recycling helps sustain our organization and create employment and training opportunities.

The free collection service helps safely divert e-waste from landfill and makes use of old items that may have been thrown away. The types of items usually collected include computers, kitchen equipment, phone systems, mobile phones, laptops, tablets, monitors, projectors, printers, battery-operated toys, televisions, and radios. Please click here for a full list 

Recycle IT – Electrical Recycling on Arrival

Schools, Community and Fundraising 

Our school’s collection service is organized as part of our free community collection service. We also support WEEE Ireland with collections of batteries from schools around Dublin which in turn supports the work of LauraLynn Children’s Hospice.

During the last 18 months, we worked with hundreds of schools, colleges, and training organizations all over Dublin and saw an overall increase in electrical equipment collected for recycling with a similar trend in 2017.

We encourage students, parents, and teachers to get involved by taking in once loved electrical items from home (WEEE to School Day). We promote these type of initiatives to increase awareness of electrical recycling and encourage the next generation to recycle as a norm. Recycling electrical equipment might also help your school achieve or maintain your valued Green Flag

Recycle IT – Supporting Battery Recycling

Register an interest

Schools, colleges and trainers wishing to register or schedule a collection simply need to complete a registration form by clicking here or call our team on 01 4578321 between 9am and 3pm, Monday – Friday. Once you call or email we can help you plan and schedule your e-waste collection.

For more information about Recycle IT please click here.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning, not for profit, social enterprise established to create employment and promote environmental awareness through recycling and reuse. We work in partnership with WEEE Ireland and are authorized by your local authority to provide electrical, electronic and pure metal recycling collections across Dublin since 2007. Recycle IT are fully compliant for WEEE collection with permit detail available here.

Recycle IT – Commended for Corporate Social Responsibility

18 Eco-Friendly Travel Tips

Travel 

Most people are now aware of or focused on environmental wellbeing but when it comes to travel for work, holidays or downtime away from home the focus is sometimes lost or relaxed. People tend to take there mind off doing many daily activities including environmentally friendly activities when away from home.

Clifden Galway

When away people simply don’t think or ask about recycling coffee/tea cups, food waste, water bottles, plastic cups, foil containers, and many other items. Sometimes it’s not easy to see or identify solutions but there are choices so please ask no matter where you are!

Green Trips 

We found Green Travel to be a term covering two main areas? Firstly it refers to following responsible travel practices and taking care of environmental, social, and economic sustainability. This might include considering and using the most eco-friendly travel options!

Irish Rail

Secondly, it refers to eco-tourism which is described by some as a low-impact and often small scale alternative to standard commercial mass tourism

As awareness and choice increases we can choose a variety of eco-friendly destinations, transportation, hotels, tour operators, and holiday shopping activities which don’t damage the environment. We can also create extra benefits and value for local people earning their living from tourism by purchasing locally made items rather than mass-produced gimmicks.

Coastal Kerry

Here are some tips for travellers 

1. Before leaving home turn down the fridge, turn off lights and unplug the radio, alarm clock, and TV,  turn off heating and close windows.
2. Take a reusable water bottle with you so you can refill over and over again.
3. Book a family holiday in Ireland and travel together on public transport.
4. Travel light, you’ll never use all the clothes you bring.
5. Walk, jog or cycle to areas of natural beauty – forget about hiring a car – use the bus.
6. Use online maps or electronic guides rather than printed paper material.
7. Research and book eco-friendly accommodation – learn more about green destinations in Ireland.
8. Choose a hotel, Airbnb or guesthouse using solar power, wind turbines, rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient lighting, and low-water usage toilets.
9. Ask the host where to put your items for recycling.
10. When you leave your accommodation, turn off all the lights, heat/AC, television. tablets etc.
11. Use a biodegradable sunscreen or simply cover-up while in the sun. It’s environmentally friendly and saves money!
12. Opt to have your bed sheets and towels changed at most, every third day as this save an amazing amount of water, energy, and detergent.
13. Hang up your towels after each use, which is the universal sign that you’d like to use them again
14. Take any leftover soap, shampoo, or toothpaste with you. Unused liquids are often thrown away, why not use and then reuse/refill the plastic bottles.
15. If you go shopping take a reusable bag.
16. Refrain from buying plastic or single-use gifts
17. Let the air out of beach balls and take games home for reuse!
18. Leave finished books and magazines where others can pick them up for a good read.

Lough Key Forest, Boyle, Roscommon

Experiences 

Travel for work or play is great to experience. Seeing new things and meeting new people expands our minds, promotes relations, cultural understanding and provides opportunities for some fun and memories of a relaxed time in our lives but do try to remember the environment and help save it for the next generation of travelers.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT  are an award-winning, eco award community enterprise providing recycling collection and drop off services for all types of waste electrical, electronic equipment (WEEE) and pure metal items.

During 2018 Recycle IT offered to drop off and collection services to tens of thousands of homes, schools, charities and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of computers, cables, monitors, microwaves and screens

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by Pobal, Dormant Accounts, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

Recycle IT

 

 

 

 

Reduce, Repair, Reuse or Recycle Computers

Computers – the end of life options! 

Advances hardware and software on computers, laptops tablets, and smartphones help make IT equipment go out of date very quickly. The United Nations University (UNU) found that more than 44 million metric tonnes of electronic waste were generated globally in 2016, with just 20% documented as recycled. According to a 2019 UN report, Global e–waste production is on track to reach 120 million tonnes per year by 2050 – Time to act!

Old Computers – Recycle IT

As technology continues to change better models of computers are released replacing existing models. As you keep up with the latest technology, you likely have old computers sitting around. Old IT equipment can’t be disposed with other waste and as they get older reuse gets harder!

If you plan to replace a computer, tablet or phone at home or in the office make sure you keep all the leads, discs and instruction manuals to allow easier reuse. Have a read below to learn more about reduce, repair, reuse and recycle 

Reduce

• Use your current computer equipment for as long as possible.
• Prior to new purchases research, your IT needs. You should really know what you want from your computers, who will use the computer and for what purpose.
• This makes it easier to buy the right computer or laptop with the correct software installed. meaning the computer can serve your needs over a longer period.
• Check that your new computer can easily be upgraded without needing to be replaced.

Repair

• Get support with your IT challenges using online technical support groups.
• Find a computer shop or repair service close to you. A useful link – repairmystuff.ie
• Take your computer or laptop back to the store where you bought it for warranty support.
• Once informed about choices, ask yourself; Is repair worthwhile?

Computers for Recycling

Reuse

• Approach a local community group, preschool or school and ask if they could benefit from reusing the item.
• Offer a useful computer to a younger member of the family.
• Donate to a charity. Call before taking computers to a charity shop as not every shop can accept electrical/electronic equipment.
• Remove personal data and passwords safely prior to reuse.

Recycle

• Drop off your old computer to Recycle IT in Dublin for free and safe recycling.
• Place your laptop or tablet in a box and post to Recycle IT for safe recycling.
• Have computers and all related equipment collected for recycling. (free or fee-based collections offered).
• Recycle your really old IT for component reuse.

Hard Disk Drives – Dismantled – Recycle IT

Recycle IT – Creating Training and Jobs

Electronic items including computers which are too old to be refurbished and reused can be sent to Recycle IT at our Dublin based electronic recycling facility.

IT equipment of all shapes and sizes is broken down for component parts and metal reuse. If more people, follow use this route to recycling our organization can increase its overall sustainability and efforts to recycle. For more information on computer recycling please click here

Choosing IT or computer recycling options through Recycle IT supports real jobs and training opportunities in our community and helps with safe environmentally friendly recycling in partnership with WEEE Ireland.  Please call our team on 01 4578321 to learn more!

Recycle IT – Team Work

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT  are an award-winning community enterprise providing recycling collection and drop off services for all types of waste electrical, electronic equipment (WEEE) and pure metal items.

During 2018 Recycle IT offered to drop off and collection services to tens of thousands of homes, schools, charities and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of computers, cables, monitors, microwaves and screens

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

Recycle IT – Collection Service

Electronic Data Safety for Homes and Small Offices

PC and Laptop Hard Disk Drives!

Did you know that multinational Hard Disk Drive producers Seagate and Western Digital share over 85% of the market? Correspondingly, the growth or decline in hard drive shipments for desktops and laptops by both Seagate and Western Digital are closely related to global desktop and laptop sales.

RTE reported that sales of personal computers were expected to decline by 2.7%  in 2017 with technology research firm IDC predicting that PC shipments will fall by 4% in 2018.

IDC estimated that the decline will continue beyond 2018, with PC sales falling to 393.8 million in 2021, compared to 423.3 million in 2017. They also say, detachable tablets are expected to see double-digit growth from 2018 through 2021, so change is in the air.

Recycle IT – Detachable Tablet

Creating Data

Even with PC sales slowing we are all still large consumers of information and we’re buying lots of electronic equipment which include hard disk drives (HDD) to store business and personal customer data including photos of everything from our kids to bank statements and passwords.

Did you know that 90% of the data on the internet has been created since 2016? The is according to an IBM Marketing Cloud study which suggests individuals, organizations, and devices have all become data creators who are turning out vast amounts of information to the internet daily.

Recycle IT – Server Hard Drives 

Storage

Today data can be stored on computers, external hard drives, mobile phones, tablets, memory cards, memory keys or many other storage devices. Both business and personal data is stored and can be valuable to others. Information like credit card information, photos or customer contact details, medical history and much more.

So if you are upgrading to a new computer device (desktop computer, phone, laptop, tablet, etc.) please arrange for the removal of the hard drive at the same time as recycling the computer!

It’s important to remain mindful of removing, erasing and destroying data which is important to you.

What to Do next?

The key to destroying your computer HDD is ensuring the drive can’t ever spin again. The physical destruction of the drive means increased confidence that stored data is obliterated and can never be used again. This is the method to Recycle IT practice.

Hard Disk Drive

In the interest of time and money, you don’t need to destroy the full PC or laptop, just the hard disk drive (HDD) which is a small box inside of computer, servers or laptop.

How to Destroy Hard Disk Drives 

If you are disposing of an old computer with a hard drive, it’s best to physically destroy the hard drive just to be 100% certain that the old data is completely destroyed.

Recycle IT use trained personal and electronic tools to ensure the HDD is physically destroyed. This method is an ideal option for the disposal of home or office hard drives.

Hard Disk Drive – Recycle IT

Safety in Destruction

Our team takes every precaution from wearing protective goggles, gloves, and a dust mask for mouth and nose when cutting into the metal drive. They can cut right through the drive, from one side to the other multiple times ensuring the platters and the controller board are shattered.  Recycle IT can also provide destruction and disposal certification depending on your needs.

Finally

Not matter who or what method you choose, it’s best to arrange the destruction of old hard drives containing important information before or at the time of recycling your computers, laptops, phones, etc.  Recycle IT offer the service and the opportunity to view the destruction process.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning, not for profit, social enterprise established to create employment and promote environmental awareness through recycling and reuse. We work in partnership with WEEE Ireland and are authorized by your local authority to provide electrical, electronic and pure metal recycling collections across Dublin since 2007. Recycle IT are fully compliant for WEEE collection with permit detail available here.

To speak with Recycle IT please call 01 4578321 or email us at here

Visit our website www.recycleit.ie

Social Enterprise Policy – News Update

The Policy Launch

The Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring, T.D.  launched the National Social Enterprise Policy for Ireland 2019-2022 on Thursday 18th July 2019  at 10.30 in the offices of Speedpak Ltd., a social enterprise based at Clonshaugh Business & Technology Park in Coolock, Dublin.

This launch event follows the publication of the draft National Policy on Social Enterprise for public consultation earlier this year. This consultation process sought the views of stakeholders and the public in order to further inform the new policy.

National Social Enterprise Policy for Ireland 2019-2022

The policy defines social enterprises as businesses whose core objective is to achieve a social, societal, or environmental impact. Social Enterprises frequently work to support disadvantaged groups such as the long-term unemployed, people with disabilities, travelers, etc., or to address issues such as food poverty, social housing, or environmental matters.

Key Focus

The new National Social Enterprise Policy for Ireland is focused on three key objectives:

1. Building Awareness of Social Enterprise;
2. Growing and Strengthening Social Enterprise and
3. Achieving Better Policy Alignment.

The policy document sets out a series of 26 commitments on the part of Government across these objectives for the development of social enterprise over the period 2019-2022. These commitments will be delivered in partnership with social enterprise stakeholders.

Minster Ring addressed those attending the launch event saying “For many years, social enterprises have provided a flexible and effective model which has delivered a positive response to social and societal issues. Social enterprises deliver a range of services across a wide spectrum of activities through their business model. They are innovative and entrepreneurial and frequently find new ways to address social, societal or environmental challenges in areas such as employment activation, affordable childcare, and the green economy. In doing so, social enterprises contribute significantly to the delivery of many Government policy objectives.”

A copy of the  National Social Enterprise Policy is available here.

Event speakers and attendees including Minister Michael Ring, T.D

The National Social Enterprise Policy for Ireland is part of a suite of policy initiatives from the Department of Rural and Community Development to support those who work with communities and disadvantaged groups. Other initiatives include a new Strategy for the Community and Voluntary Sectors and a new National Volunteering Strategy, which will be published later in 2019.

Training Fund

On Sept 2nd, 2019, Mr. Michael Ring TD, Minister for Rural and Community Development, announced €800,000 in funding for the provision of training and mentoring for social enterprises throughout Ireland. The funding will be provided from the Dormant Accounts Fund and will support one of the key policy commitments in the National Social Enterprise Policy for Ireland which is detailed above.

Mr. Michael Ring TD, Minister for Rural and Community Development

Pobal recently invited Expressions of Interest on behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development for the delivery of training and mentoring from national, regional or local organizations or networks that have a demonstrable track record in the delivery of training and mentoring to social enterprises.

Statutory bodies or institutions, including Higher Education Institutions, which have a proven track record in providing direct supports and training to social enterprises, are eligible to apply.

This training initiative delivers on the commitment made in the National Social Enterprise Policy. and up to 300 participants are likely to benefit from the provision of training and mentoring supports over the next 12 months.

Events

As well as training there are a number of events taking place in Dublin and around the country to inform people about social enterprise and illustrate real examples of social enterprise. Information on these events can be found on websites such as Pobal, the Irish Local Development Network,  the Wheel, the Irish Social Enterprise Network, and local economic development or enterprise offices within the county councils across Ireland.

You can also save the date for the National Social Enterprise Conference on 21st November 2019. The conference run by the Department of Rural and Community Development will be taking place in Croke Park. If interested you should keep an eye out for registration which will be live shortly.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning social enterprise providing recycling collection and drop off services for all types of waste electrical, electronic equipment (WEEE) and pure metal items.

During 2018 Recycle IT operated drop off and collection services to tens of thousands of homes, schools, charities and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of batteries, computers, cables, monitors, kettles.  microwaves and screens.

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development, Dormant Accounts Fund, Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare, and Wicklow.

For further details about our free and cost-effective services call us on 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit the Recycle IT website at www.recycleit.ie

Recycle IT

 

Battery Recycling – Now is good!

Did you know?

Did you know waste batteries are classified as hazardous waste and recycling is always the best option? Ordinary household batteries used in radio’s, remotes, kids, toys and other gadgets contain some hazardous chemicals so ideally should not be thrown in the green or black bin with your other types of waste. The same can be said for rechargeable batteries which also contain harmful materials.

WEEE Ireland Battery Recycling – Supported by Recycle IT

Why recycle batteries?

Recycling electrical items and batteries help’s reduce the number of items entering landfill and ensure’s any heavy metals and chemicals contained in batteries are managed in an environmentally responsible way.

Do something new!

When buying batteries remember ordinary batteries require a lot of energy to create them so why not save energy and some money by trying rechargeable batteries and/or electricity operated equipment instead of batteries. Rechargeable batteries are a more environmentally friendly option as they can last for several hundred charging cycles resulting in less waste being produced.

Where to recycle?

Thanks to EU Regulations implemented in 2008 it’s very easy to recycle your old batteries! According to the regulations, all retail outlets that sell batteries are now obliged to take back old batteries of similar type.

Bring Back to Bosco

Here are some options for recycling end of life batteries.

• Chains of retail stores and shops were batteries are sold – Aldi and Lidl Ireland are leading the way!
• Local recycling centers accept old and waste batteries.
• School all over Ireland works in partnership with WEEE Ireland to recycle waste batteries.
• WEEE Ireland waste electrical and electronic equipment recycling days.
• Recycle IT recycle batteries from homes, schools, colleges, and charities daily through our collection and drop off services.

WEEE Ireland

In Ireland, the WEEE Ireland battery recycling scheme operates on behalf of producers of battery and electrical appliances. It aims to encourage people at home and in work to manage their electrical and battery waste responsibly.  Waste batteries can then be deposited in WEEE Ireland blue boxes at many locations across our country. Please find a list here

Recycle IT

Recycle IT work in partnership with WEEE Ireland to offer collection and drop off recycling services for old electrical, electronic and battery-operated equipment including batteries. The collection service is offered throughout Dublin and the surrounding areas and our teams are delighted to accept waste batteries as part of any recycling collection.

To contact us please call 01 4578321, email us here or visit our website

 

42 Summer Tips – Reduce, Reuse & Recycle

Summer Tips! –  Mixed of old and new!

For generations in Ireland and across Europe thrift was one of the main reasons for reuse.  In the developing world, it’s still the case and leads to very high levels of reuse.  In Ireland as in other developed countries rising wages and greater consumer purchasing power has increased demand for convenience products.

Recovery for Reuse

Convenience products have helped us undervalue reuse in favor of disposal or recycling.  Recycling is positive and has great benefits but uses resources including time, human capital and natural resources (e.g. fuel) to get the items to locations where they can be recycled effectively. Reuse is preferable!

If you can reuse an item yourself, it can help save money, save time, and the environment. Reuse helps reduced CO2 emissions and the mining of new raw materials.  Reuse can be a matter of thinking a little differently and figuring out how old milk cartons, cans, bags, bicycles, tires, packing or wood maybe reuse to match your needs. Reuse will truly find a new life for items around your home or workplace.

We created some reuse tips for summer 2018 which were really popular. We have now updated the list for summer 2019 – Have a read and see what you can do, share with others and do involve any kids in your life.

Eco Tyre Reuse

42 Tips 

1. Create reusable lunch boxes or storage containers from large plastic ice cream tubs.
2. Use metal knives, forks, and spoons for your next outdoor event 
3. If you have plastic knives, forks, and spoons wash, store and reuse at your next summer event.
4. Reuse large plastic milk container to water garden plants rather than a hose: pierce small holes in the top side of the container and fill with water for slow, steady and simple watering.
5. Harvest seeds from fruit and vegetables and try to grow them!
6. Use paper egg cartons or toilet paper tubes (both are biodegradable) to start growing seeds into plants. They can be dropped right into the soil once strong enough.
7. Turn toilet rolls or paper towel tubes into playthings for children or nesting materials for your small pets.
8. Have a go at egg carton crafts – family fun! 
9. Store printed pictures and photos in poly pockets to reduce the aging effects from humidity, damp and light.
10. Use old wine corks to create a floating key ring; your keys won’t sinking while at the pool, beach or lake.
11. Use 2-liter plastic bottles to create bird feeders.
12. Used cold bacon fat in a tuna or cat food can feed your feathered friends, just hang from a tree or fence post in the garden.
13. Put old newspaper under a tablecloth to offer protection against spills.
14. Place an open jar or bowl of dried, used coffee grounds in your refrigerator or freezer to neutralize odors.
15. Keep a jar of dried, used coffee grounds to use with washing up liquid. It acts as a scouring agent for baked on food
16. Placed used coffee grounds in a ring around garden plants to keep bugs and slugs away.
17. Refresh your eyes fresh with chilled and dampened tea bags taken from the fridge.
18. Cut old bike tire tubes tube into strips to make rubber bands in custom sizes.
19. Cut or shred paper or thin card into eco-friendly packing material for presents or parcels.
20. As kids outgrow coloring pencils, pens and art supplies try donating them to your local school.
21. Empty bottles, sweet boxes and biscuit tins can be used as small screw holders, tool boxes, sewing kit or cake holders.
22. Collect old soap ends into stocking leg and keep by an outdoor tap, ensuring you have hand wash for outside use.
23. Cut up old t-shirts and use them to clean up messy spills around the house and in the garage.
24. Used an old adult t-shirt as painting overalls for your kids – saves washing clothes.
25. Old tights make great rags for cleaning, dusting and shining
26. Old tights can be reused as sleeves for storing posters, wallpaper rolls, wrapping paper or anything else that needs to stay rolled up.
27. Cut the legs of old jeans to make super cool shorts for summer.
28. Use banana peels to shine your shoes. Rub the inside of the peel on shoes, then shine with a soft cloth.
29. Turn bread heals into breadcrumbs once dried out. Just blitz.
30. Use the peels of juiced lemons and limes to make zest and twists, which can be dried or frozen for later use.
31. Use juiced citrus fruit halves sprinkled with salt to clean stainless steel and other metal fixtures.
32. Add a piece of orange peel to brown sugar to ensure it stays soft.
33. Don’t throw away half used copy books, up-cycle into kid’s drawing books.
34. Unravel woolen jumpers and knit something new for you!
35. Reused material from 3 or 4 broken umbrellas to assemble a retro style rain poncho.
36. Jars can be cleaned and used to store homemade jams, preserves or even as a desk organizer for pens, paper clips or pencils.
37. Save old toothbrushes to scrub hard to reach places, like grout, sinks or behind water taps.
38. Collect broken china to re-tile outdoor tables, flower pots or paths.
39. Hang old clothes drawers or washing machine drums on the wall to create shelves or used them as storage boxes.
40. Reuse water from washing and/or cooking vegetables to water plants internally and externally 
41. Reuse a spray bottle to mix 50% distilled vinegar (white) and 50% tap water for a simple window cleaner. (For very grimy glass, prewash with soapy water)
42. Clean your window with the old Sundays newspapers (instead of paper towel)

Waste is Treasure! 

We all know one person’s waste is another person’s treasure. Instead of discarding unwanted tools, clothes, furniture or electrical appliances, try reuse with friends or donating them can reduce waste and help others save money.

Innovative Chair Reuse

Local community groups, charity shops, schools, and nonprofit organizations may accept a variety of donated items, including used books, paint, working toys, and unneeded furniture. Please click here to learn more

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT, are an award-winning Dublin based social enterprise offering electrical, electronic and metal recycling. Services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT are supported by Pobal, the Dormant Accounts Fund, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

For further details about our free and cost-effective services call us on 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit the Recycle IT website at www.recycleit.ie

 

 

Sharing News – Bye-Laws and Waste Labelling

Waste Bye-Laws

Your County Council recently adopted waste Segregation, Storage and Presentation of Household and Commercial Waste Bye-Laws which will ensure a consistent approach to managing waste across Ireland.

Did you know failure to comply with any of the requirements of the waste bye-laws may result in a Fixed Penalty Notice (Maximum €75) being issued by a member of your local County or City Council or by a member of An Garda Siochana and may result in a fine of up to €2,500 on conviction?

Waste Bye-Laws

These bye-laws apply to all households, apartments and commercial premises and aim to aid the prevention and control of environmental pollution.

What this really means   

Now the onus is on every household, apartments and commercial premises to provide proof that they have a contract in place with an authorized waste collector or that they regularly use a recycling center or civic amenity site. (a docket or receipt is can be provided on request at recycling centers).

By correctly managing your waste you will:

• Help address challenges with climate
• Improve the quantity and quality of recyclables collected
• Reduce waste going to landfill and incineration
• Conserve our planets limited resources

You can start to reduce waste by simply: 

• Saying no to single-use disposable items like razors, batteries, wipes, coffee cups
• Make a weekly shopping list for your groceries, and follow it
• Stop or reduce packaging by buying loose produce and buying in bulk
• Switch to rechargeable batteries
• Place a no junk mail sticker on your letterbox
• Some using plastic and especially single-use plastics

My Waste Ireland – Logo

Small Quantity – share a bin! 

The best and probably most affordable option in this instance is bin sharing with a family member or friend living in close proximity and maybe a less frequent collection. A letter from the bin account holder will be sufficient evidence, this account holder will then be obliged to provide evidence of contact with a permitted waste collection company.

Segregate recyclable

It’s important that you segregate recyclable waste from your residual waste and present these separately.  Please note: If you are living in an urban area, small town or village with a population of over 500 you are required to segregate food waste* Please don’t include metal, electronic or electrical waste with your recyclable or general waste. You can drop it to a recycling center such as Recycle IT or have it collected by Recycle IT.

Benefits of Bye-Laws 

In our view, the waste bye-laws can encourage and increase formal recycling through drop off or collection for reuse, recycling and other forms of recovery. They will also encourage people to reduce their waste, separate their waste which leads to an increase in the quality of waste for collection.

Labeling

Recently Minister Bruton launched three new voluntary labels for use by producers, manufacturers, and retailers in order to avoid confusion or ambiguity when recycling.

Minister Bruton – New Labelling to Make Recycling Easier

The labels clearly identify whether an item is widely recycled, whether it is not recyclable, and whether more information should be sought before deciding how to dispose of.

The most important message is “the proper segregation of waste is crucial”. It minimizes the amount of waste ending up in landfill and helps us use our resources more effectively.

Learn more

Please click here to learn more or download information in Irish, Chinese, Polish or Russian on the waste bye-laws. You can read more about the new waste labeling system here

Guides to Waste Bye-Laws – Irish, Chinese, Polish or Russian

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT, are an award-winning Dublin based social enterprise offering electrical, electronic and metal recycling. Services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT are supported by Pobal, the Dormant Accounts Fund, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

For further details about our free and cost-effective services call us on 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit the Recycle IT website at www.recycleit.ie

Recycle IT – Learning with Communities

Technological University Dublin

The Community Engagement Programme, Students Learning with Communities has worked with over 100 community organizations as partners on real-life projects that benefit the lives of many individuals while also enhancing student learning.

Since 2008, over 10,000 students and 170 staff at DIT now Technological University (TU) Dublin have collaborated on over 500 projects in Ireland and internationally. The Community Engagement Programme is managed by the Access and Civic Engagement Office at TU Dublin.

Learning

Learning with Communities allows students to improve their knowledge on a range of subjects in collaboration with community organisations. Student groups engage in a specific project or tasks with a chosen community organization.  The programme is mutually beneficial as it;

1. Progresses the community organization’s aims and objectives.
2. Enables community partner to become part of the education process contributing to the academic and professional development of the student.

Award-Winning TU Business Analytics Students

Many undergraduate programmes at TU Dublin offer students the opportunity to become involved in collaborative projects in the community. Students gain an understanding of the efforts required to generate real and sustaining value and their insight can enable organisations to think about doing things differently.

Benefits

Recycle IT have engaged over a number of years and find the TU Dublin Community Engagement Programme very helpful and worthwhile.  During 2018/ 2019 students learned how Recycle IT, operate as a social enterprise to achieve its social, economic and environmental goals.  The student groups learn about the limitations and constraints faced and got an overview of the services provided which benefit communities, charities, business, and employment.

Recycle IT try to encourage students to become advocates for social enterprise by sharing news on their outputs with other students and academic staff during college and with colleagues when employed.

TU Dublin Logo

Overall the engagement with TU students in 2019 helped generate new ideas and has identified some advances which once implemented will enhance recycling capabilities, data entry, and reporting.

As a result of our engagement Recycle IT was invited to attend the annual TU Dublin City Campus, Students Learning With Communities Awards. The award event happened in St. Laurence’s Church, TU Grangegorman in Dublin 7 on May 7th, 2019 with student and community partner certificates presented by Prof Brian Norton, TU Dublin Principal of TU Dublin City Campus.

Recycle IT – TU Dublin Community Partner

Recycle IT were delighted to be presented with a Learning With Communities Award following our engagement with a group of students from TU Dublin, City Campus, Aungier Street. The students studied Business Analytics and through the engagement,  shared their knowledge and learning with Recycle IT.

Based on our attendance and experience the awards really do celebrate the great work and joint effort of students, academic staff and community partners.

To learn more please click here

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT, are an award-winning Dublin based social enterprise offering electrical, electronic and metal recycling. Services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT are supported by Pobal, the Dormant Accounts Fund, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

For further details about our free and cost-effective services call us on 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit the Recycle IT website at www.recycleit.ie

Recycle IT – Collecting all over Dublin

Healthy and Eco-Friendly – Cycling and Recycling

Recent Trends

By April 2016, 56,837 people cycled to work, an increase of 43% since 2011.  Three-quarters of these were males.  Two-thirds of all cyclists were in Dublin city and suburbs, with 38,870 persons cycling to work. (Source: CSO)

A 2018 traffic survey carried out by the Dublin Cycling Campaign has revealed how popular cycling has become for people commuting into the city centre. The results show that bicycles account for almost half of all vehicles traveling along Ormond Quay during rush hour, with 1,126 bikes recorded out of a total vehicle count of 2,314. This gives bicycles a 49% share of all vehicles.

Cycling in Dublin

Environment and Bikes!

The bike is a simple, affordable, reliable, clean and environmentally sustainable means of transportation, fostering environmental stewardship and health. With this in mind, the United Nations General Assembly decided to dedicate the 3rd of June as World Bicycle Day – Add this to World Environment Day on June 5th and we are on a real winner!

These days encourage awareness and action on health, wellbeing and the protection of our environment. World Environment Day is the “people’s day” for doing something to take care of the Earth. Recycle IT believe these two “UN” days can work in harmony!

Family Park Cycling

World Bicycle Day aims to emphasize and advance the use of the bicycle as a means of fostering sustainable development, strengthening education, including physical education, for children and young people, promoting health, preventing disease, promoting tolerance, mutual understanding, and respect and facilitating social inclusion and a culture of peace. All these aims can really be achieved using a bike while also helping us travel without creating carbon miles.

Celebrate the bicycle

Initiatives promote cycling at both national and local levels can help build physical and mental health and well-being and develop a sustainable and environmentally friendly culture of cycling in society.

Reuse Dublin Bikes

National Bike Week

Bike Week in Ireland is a celebration and promotion of all that’s great about bikes and cycling. Held in June of each year bike-themed events are organized by Irish local authorities, community groups and cycling groups throughout Ireland  You can learn more about and maybe take part between June 22nd and June 30th, 2019 by visiting bikeweek.ie

Here are 8 reasons to celebrate the bike (some encouragement)

1. The bicycle is a simple, affordable, reliable and clean way to get about.
2. The bike is environmentally friendly and is a sustainable means of transportation;
3. The bicycle can serve as a tool for social, community and economic development
4. Cycling can help people access education, health care, and sporting activities.
5. The union between the bicycle and the user creates an immediate awareness of the local environment you are cycling through.
6. Using a bike saves time, reduces traffic and helps you arrive on time.
7. The bike has a positive impact on climate with fewer carbon emissions.
8. Biking can help grow your social circles, real friends and enjoyment of life.

Encourage Cycling and Environmental Awareness.

Recycle IT want to encourage as many people as possible to read and share this blog post. Then throughout the summer weeks and months take the bike out and bring friends and family along to discover your local environment.

As the summer sun shines there is no better time to get on the bike and grow your awareness of the local area. This can happen in the full knowledge that you are improving your health and reducing environmental harm.

Cycling in Dublin City

Recycle IT and Bike Recycling

Recycle IT are happy to accept old bikes for free recycling. Just drop your old bike off with us Monday to Friday in Clondalkin. We also accept bikes from communities all over Dublin as part of our free door to door community collection service.

Reuse

Members of the Recycle IT team not only recycle bikes but cycle regularly. Where possible we reuse and recycle bikes and bike parts.  At the time of writing this post, we have a staff member waiting to get a bike frame and parts for reuse and another who just rebuild a bike from recycled parts. Once on the road, these bikes will enable easy, affordable and environmentally friendly travel into work.

Recycle IT are now working with a Dublin based charity and social enterprise to share bikes, bike frames, and parts so bikes can be rebuilt and sold at affordable prices in the hope of creating training and employment opportunities.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT, are a social enterprise offering electrical, electronic and metal recycling. Services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT are supported by Pobal, the Dormant Accounts Fund, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

For further details about our services call us on 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit the Recycle IT website at www.recycleit.ie

 

Recycling Electrical Waste and IT Equipment.

Recycling and IT Disposal

At Recycle IT you will find a team that is dedicated, socially driven and environmentally sensible. Our social enterprise specializes in compliant and permitted WEEE recycling and IT disposal, we can be seen daily collecting electronic, electrical and pure metal waste from a range of organizations and properties across Dublin. Through this work, we create training and employment opportunities.

Recycle IT – Recycling Cables

The removal of electronic waste comes with many stipulations and guidelines, with which we fully comply. For further details click here

Collections

At short notice and within days our vehicles equipped with a friendly and reactive team, are available to carry out the collection and recycling of a variety of electronic equipment in our specialist WEEE recycling facility. All your old equipment will be safely disposed of. If you have a particular requirement just let us know in advance.

WEEE for Recycling

Waste electrical and electronic equipment recycling includes:

• Computer recycling including safe breakdown & disposal.
• Server & Network equipment recycling.
• TV/Monitor recycling & disposal.
• Physical destruction of Hard Drives or sensitive equipment.
• Laptop and printer recycling & disposal.
• White goods recycling.
• Audio goods recycling.
• Testing and monitoring equipment.
• Games consoles and electronic toys.

Businesses large and small can save time and hassle by engaging a professional cost-effective reliable recycling service to collect you waste items for safe recycling.

Compliant with the Legislation

All of our recycling is carried out in accordance to the legislation put in place and managed by the Irish Environment Agency and all WEEE recycling is carried out in accordance with the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive. Recycle IT is a not for profit social enterprise that is fully compliant and partner with WEEE Ireland to support collections and recycling.

WEEE Recycling

On removal of WEEE from your organization, Recycle IT will provide you with documentation include a receipt acknowledging the collection. Once the equipment leaves your premises you can be sure it will be dealt with responsibly. If your business needs additional documents for audit or environmental reporting please let us know and we will endeavor to help.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning not for profit enterprise providing a collection and drop off service for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). Last year Recycle IT offer drop off and collection services to homes, schools, charities, and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of computers, cables, monitors, microwaves and TVs.

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT are supported by Pobal, Dorment Account Fund, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

Recycle IT – Collection Service

Plastic Free July 2019

Can you Refuse’ Single-use Plastic?

As you know lots of electrical, electronic and metal items are packed in plastic and have a plastic cover or coating. When these items are recycled the plastic is removed and mainly reused in new products but what can be done about everyday plastic’s?

In July 2019 people all over the world are aiming to exclude plastic bottles, cutlery, fruit packing, coffee cup lids and other common plastic waste items from their daily life, opting instead for reusable containers or those made from biodegradable materials.  We think this is a great idea!

Plastic Bottles

The vision started in Western Australia in 2011 and has since moved across the world to help promote and stop the earth becoming further saturated with plastic materials which are part of our convenience lifestyle.

Lots of items are designed to be used once and disposed of. They fill up bins in homes, work, schools and on streets across the world including Ireland with Irish town and city bins full to capacity most of the time.

Ireland and some other countries have made some progress with a tax on one-use plastic bags which reduced usage but problems still exist with millions of plastics bags, cutlery, bottles plates and cartons used daily.

This usage is rapidly increasing the amount of non-biodegradable product on the earth. These plastics may be cheap and convenient, but it’s having real consequences. Plastic is polluting our land, air, and oceans; it is harming our marine life and even invading our bodies with Microbeads everywhere.

Plastic Microbeads

Where to start – We have added 10 Tips to help

BRING YOUR OWN BAG: Get yourself a couple of good cloth bags and leave them in the car or beside the front door so you’ll always have them on hand.

DON’T BUY BOTTLED WATER: Get some reusable bottles and fit a cost-effective water filter to the taps in your home.

FRUIT CARTONS:  Avoid plastic fruit and vegetable packaging. A single plastic produce carton can take more than 1000 years to degrade so shop for un-packaged fruit and veg when you can or leave the plastic with the store.  They will get the idea!

DAILY COFFEE: Take away coffee cups are lined with plastic and often can’t be recycled. Take your own coffee cup or have a sit-down coffee using the cafe’s cups.

PACK A LUNCHBOX:  Use a good sturdy lunchbox with separate compartments, to allow you to pack food straight into separately, eliminating the need for plastic wrapping and avoid plastic-wrapped snack foods like biscuits or bars. Try making some at home, it cheaper and somewhat healthier.

PLASTIC FOOD WRAP: Buy some stainless steel or long plastic containers to help eliminate the need for single life plastic food wrapping.

STRAWS: If you really want a straw, buy reusable straws.

CUT PLASTIC CUTLERY: Plastic cutlery is another single-use plastic item you can avoid. Keep some reusable cutlery in your lunch or picnic bag.

Plastic Bottle – Water Filling

SOURCE A SODA MAKER: This helps reduce the amount of plastic soft drinks bottles purchased, used and disposed of in your home and office weekly.

SHOP WISE: Ask your local shop and supermarket to make the change away from plastic or vote with your feet until they do. It will happen and think about all the waste which won’t enter your waste and the related time saved.

Plastic Free July 2019

Plastic Free July 2019 – what to do! 

Just join the challenge and ‘Choose To Refuse’ single-use plastic during July. You can assist in achieving the goals of having a world without plastic waste.  Will you join and give up? If so learn more, and sign up at www.plasticfreejuly.org

Did You Know?

If you purchase drinks in Scotland will have to pay a 20p deposit on every bottle or drinks can purchase. This ambitious new scheme unveiled by the Scottish government aims to help reduce and recover items for reuse and safe recycling.

The deposit return scheme, the first national scheme in the UK, will cover glass and plastic bottles, as well as aluminum and steel drinks cans, sold in Scotland.

The consumer will get their deposit back when they return the empty bottle or can to the retailer. The scheme will operate throughout Scotland, including rural areas.  All types of drinks and all containers above 50ml and up to three liters in size are included. What do you think about this initiative? Would Ireland benefit from similar?

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning not for profit enterprise providing a collection and drop off service for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). Last year Recycle IT offered to drop off and collection services to homes, schools, charities, and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of computers, cables, monitors, microwaves and TV’s.

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT are supported by Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

Social Enterprise Policy – News

Public Consultation on Draft National Social Enterprise Policy for Ireland

Minister Michael Ring TD, Minister for Rural and Community Development has published a draft National Policy on Social Enterprise for public consultation and is seeking the views of stakeholders and the public to inform the policy.

Michael Ring TD, Minister for Rural and Community Development

The key objective of the Department is to offer a policy framework for the development of the not-for-profit sector and to provide a full range of appropriate supports to organisations in that sector to improve their capability to deliver services to individuals and communities, tackle social issues, and contribute to a fairer and more inclusive society.

In July 2017, policy responsibility for social enterprise was assigned to the Department of Rural and Community Development. The department has taken the lead on the government commitment in the Action Plan for Rural Development to develop and publish a National Policy on Social Enterprise which will encompass the full range of activity in this sector. We are now are draft policy stage  with public consultation an import element of moving the strategy forward.

Social Enterprise in Ireland

The draft policy states that “Social enterprises are part of the wider social economy and make a valuable contribution to the social and economic progress of Ireland through the creation of jobs and through the delivery of a broad range of services in areas such as homecare, child care, employment activation, retail, hospitality and catering environmental services, and social housing. They are innovative, entrepreneurial and are increasingly utilising new technologies and creative approaches to address social, socio-economic and environmental challenges”

Draft Social Enterpise Policy Document Cover

The draft policy is focused on three objectives:

1. Building Awareness of Social Enterprise

2. Growing and Strengthening Social Enterprise

3. Achieving Better Policy Alignment

Why not have a say after reading the draft National Policy on Social Enterprise

The Minister is inviting the views of stakeholders on the draft policy. These views will contribute to the finalisation of an ambitious, achievable and fit-for-purpose National Social Enterprise Policy for Ireland.The closing date for submissions is Tuesday 14th May 2019. You can send your submission by email to: SEConsultation@drcd.gov.ie.

Alternatively, responses can be posted to: Social Enterprise Policy,  Rural Strategy and Social Enterprise, Trinity Point, Leinster Street South, Ireland, D02 EF85

Phone number: 076 106 4900

Shared by Reycle IT

Recycle IT, is an award-winning social enterprise offering electrical, electronic and metal recycling services through drop off and collection. Services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland and South Dublin County Council. Recycle IT are supported by Pobal and Dormant Accounts and authorised by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

For more information on Recycle IT please call 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit our website www.recycleit.ie

Recycle IT

EPA Climate Conference – May 15th

Climate Change Overview

Scientific evidence points to the fact that Climate change is happening. Climate change is in the main is caused by human activity on the earth and has greatly increased over the last 200 years. This change can have serious and damaging effects on our lives and on the natural environment in the decades ahead.

Heating of the oceans and its effects

Greenhouse gas emissions from cars, trucks, trains, power facilities, factories, and other man-made creations — rather than natural variations in climate — are the primary cause of Climate change.

Over time gases have reached a concentration level in our atmosphere. These greenhouse gases act like a blanket, trapping the sun’s warmth near the earth’s surface, and affecting the planet’s climate system.

Greenhouse gases stay in the atmosphere for a long time. Although plants and the ocean absorb carbon dioxide, they can’t keep up with all the extra carbon dioxide that people have been releasing.

Wind Energy

The Conference

We all need to do more and increasing knowledge and awareness of what we can do is a valuable first step.  The EPA National Climate Conference, in collaboration with the Department of Communications, Climate Action & Environment will take place on 15th May 2019 at the Aviva Stadium, Dublin. This could be your first step and an opportunity to learn more; to do more!

Speaker will include: Charles Sabel (Columbia Law School), Maria Vassilakou (Mayor of Vienna), Marie Donnelly (Former Director Renewables, Research & Innovation and Energy Efficiency at DG Energy, EC) and Margaret Desmond (Head of Climate Services Section, EPA)

Panel sessions and discussions will focus on Agriculture, Transport, Energy and Engagement.

You can book free here. For the conference agenda, click here

The EPA National Climate Conference is convened by the EPA as part of the National Dialogue on Climate Action. It is a Government of Ireland initiative funded by the Department of Communications Climate Action and Environment. For more details please visit the Irish EPA website.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT, is an award-winning social enterprise offering electrical, electronic and metal recycling services through drop off and collection. Services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland and South Dublin County Council. Recycle IT are supported by Pobal and Dormant Accounts and authorised by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

For more information on Recycle IT please call 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit our website www.recycleit.ie

Recycle IT – WEEE Fact

Dormant Accounts Funding for Recycle IT

Press Release – March 29, 2019.

Recycle IT, a community electrical recycling organisation based in Dublin was allocated approximately €40,000 to help fund a new electrical recycling collection vehicle. This funding was allocated through the Dormant Accounts Fund managed by the Department of Rural and Community Development and administrated by Pobal.

Dormant Accounts Fund Logo

As a social enterprise, part funded through the Community Services Programme (CSP) Recycle IT supports the delivery of environmental services in areas of disadvantage. Recycle IT engage with many communities including communities lacking services due to economic, geographical or social challenges or where demand for services is not being addressed easily by existing services.

Una Lavelle General Manager of Recycle IT has welcomed the news calling it ‘a testament to the work of Recycle IT over the last number of years. Una has singled out Pobal and the Dormant Account Fund for their support since inception of electrical recycling services in 2002.

Pobal Logo

John McEntee Development Manager at Recycle IT is delighted that this funding has been allocated to ensure electrical and electronic recycling collections continue in Dublin and surrounding areas while also reinforcing our ability to deliver training and employment opportunities.

Over the last two year Recycle IT have safely recycled over 900 tonnes of electrical items from homes and over 235 tonnes from school, charities and community organisations in Dublin and surrounding areas. The Dormant Account Fund allows Recycle IT continue to offer an accessible and eco-friendly recycling service for old and once loved electrical and electronic items. Residents groups, charities, school and college will have ongoing access to a free, safe and prescheduled collection service using a new vehicle which will delivers greater fuel efficiency and lower emissions for the benefit of society and the organisation.

Recycle IT

This Dormant Accounts funding supports the vision of its voluntary board of directors and staff team to continue delivery of our recycling service, widen the area of coverage and deliver on our mission to provide a professional community based electronic waste management service while creating sustainable employment opportunities based at our recycling facility in Clondalkin, Dublin 22.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT, is a social enterprise offering electrical, electronic and metal recycling services through drop off and collection. Services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland and South Dublin County Council. Recycle IT are supported by Pobal and Dormant Accounts and authorised by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

For more information on Recycle IT please call 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit our website www.recycleit.ie

Department of Rural and Community Development

Tips for National Spring Clean Month

Community Spring Clean 2019

National Spring Clean is Ireland’s most popular, well-recognized and successful anti-litter and waste initiative. It takes place during April each year.  The campaign encourages all sector of society to actively participate and take responsibility for litter and waste.National Spring Clean has been operated by An Taisce since 1999 in partnership with the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment.

The size and scale of National Spring Clean has grown steadily and significantly over the years and has many benefits for people taking part. With the participation in 2018 of over 500,000 volunteers and 2,600 tonnes of litter collected, of which 35% was recycled, the National Spring Clean 2019 aims to build on the progress and momentum from prior years to make 2019 the most successful anti–litter campaign yet.

Spring Clean – Take Part

Local area cleanups are usually organised by resident associations and tidy town groups and can also involved others some of which include:

• Local Organisations e.g. Recycle IT or Recycling Centres
• Local Authorities e.g. South Dublin County Council
• Schools, Community Colleges, Universities and Environmental Groups.
• Youth Groups e,g, Boy Scouts, Girl Guides or Foróige
• Community Service Initiative e.g. Tus.
• General Public.

With April 2019 upon us Recycle IT have assembled some tips for organising a successful National Spring Clean event in your area!

Time

• You will need time to organise your event. Start planning at least a few weeks in advance. Spring is the best time to do a cleanup – before grass and weeds have a chance to hide rubbish and litter and make retrieval more difficult.
• When you select a day or weekend for the cleanup, check with local community organisations and the local authority in your area to avoid any event conflicts.
• Arrange for collection and disposal of the waste collected. 

  

  Litter Bin

Planning

• A good plan will help your group set a direction and document the steps you need to take to organise the spring cleanup. Using an existing neighborhood cleanup committee or forming a new group is a great way to get things done efficiently and build ownership at the same time.
• Use a Clean Up notebook to record names, numbers emails, dates and other important information. It’s good to document everything and maintain a cleanup file including photos. This can be used for  grant applications and PR.
• Determine your “cleanup area” to get an idea of the support you will need. Use a map to coordinate teams and pickup routes. Records litter black spots and any situations needing special tools or equipment to get the job done.
• Estimate of the number of volunteers, assign tasks and a develop a schedule.

Team Building

• Remember letters work well, but personal contact is the best way to build your team and secure the needed resources for the job. If you do not know your neighbors, now is a good time to meet them. Introduce yourself and tell them what you would like to do. Do not ask for a commitment — that will come later — just get a feel for the support you have.
• There may be groups within your community that regularly organize community projects. Consider partnering with these or other groups, even if they are not in your area.
• Businesses, and you local authority take pride in their communities. Ask them to help with this community effort by donating items or funding to support the event.
• Have a few event photographer so you have photos for newsletter articles, annual reports, Web page projects, promotional flyers, etc.

Clean Up & Recycle IT

Promotion

• Consider creating a promotional flyer to distribute at local business and organisations.
• Specify what will be or will not be accepted; provide options for those items.
• Inform residents about the pickup times. Specify the cleanup will occur regardless of the weather. 
• Include your event parish local authority and community newsletters, on websites, local community radio and newspapers. Invite the media to do a story on your cleanup — this is recognition of volunteers, donors or sponsors.

Implementation

Before you start, gather everyone together to review the event and answer questions. Have a cleanup plan with a start and finish point in an estate or street with groups starting at both ends and working towards the middle. Spread volunteers out so they have plenty to do while having fun.

Coordinator duties

• Register interested parties.
• Ensure everyone is aware of safety requirements and areas to avoid.
• Make sure children are safe and supervised by adults.
• Answer questions on collection and removal.
• Have brochures and coupons available on how to dispose of items you cannot accept (WEEE, batteries, hazardous waste, tires, oil, etc.).
• Make sure plenty of water, mobile phones and a first aid kit on-site.
• Keep details for emergency service at hand.
• Keep a positive attitude. don’t get overwhelmed and avoid overwork – you can do more another day!

Some of the typical cleanup needs include:

• Volunteers
• Bin bags
• Safety signs and general safety
• Gloves/heavy-duty
• Buckets for sharp objects
• Tools (ropes, rakes, shovels, etc.)
• Trees/wildflower/grass seeds
• Hi-Vis Safety Vests
• First Aid Kit
• List of mobile phone numbers
• After clean up event e.g. BBQ or picnic

WEEE To Work – Recycle IT

Say Thanks

Take every opportunity to mention the support of your volunteers, especially when talking to the media. You should write thank you letters to key community groups and local businesses/donors. Provide copies of photos for their archives.

Finally…

Record what worked well and what didn’t. This means you do not have to reinvent the wheel this time next year! This information will be important for new and future members of the cleanup group.

If you would like to include a residents association door 2 door recycling collection for electrical, electronic and pure metal items as part of your local spring clean please call Recycle IT on 01 4578321 or email info@recylceit.ie.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT, is an award winning social enterprise offering electrical, electronic and metal recycling services through drop off and collection. Services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland and South Dublin County Council.

Recycle IT are supported by Pobal and Dormant Accounts and authorised by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

For more information on Recycle IT please call 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit our website www.recycleit.ie

You can get your spring clean pack and more information click here

Recycle IT – Collection Service

Eco Week 2019 in South Dublin – Extended by Recycle IT!

April 1st – April 5th 2019 

South Dublin County Council’s 15th annual Eco Week promotes awareness of the environment and is a fantastic opportunity for schools, colleges, communities groups, businesses and people living and working in South Dublin to educate, learn and become a part of improving our environment.

Eco Week 2019 really has something for everyone covers a variety of topics. All events are FREE to access  but please book early. Remember when considering events, share details with others, travel together by offering lifts, or use public transport to reduce carbon miles.

Events

Events include environmental workshops, shows, talks and eco walks on themes such as waste prevention, re-use, recycling, energy, water, biodiversity and climate change These activities are scheduled to take place all around the south Dublin in libraries, parks, offices and recycling centres. There is something for everyone from Community Groups to Schools, Business,Householders and Individuals.

Eco Week 2019

Things to try for Eco Week

Recycle IT have complied a list of 11 things you might consider doing for Eco Week 2018, hopefully they are all eco-friendly!

• Leave the grass uncut for April.
• Compost the grass cuttings during spring and summer.
• Bring you family on woodland adventure walk.
• Used your skills to get out community gardening.
• Arrange an eco-cleanup of your local area.
• Book a resident association electrical recycling collection day for your estate.
• Clear out your home and garden shed, donate the items to charity or recycle safely.
• Involve the kids in planting a tree or two.
• Volunteer some time with an environmental group.
• Reduce plastic waste as you are shopping e.g. leave it with the shop as a message!
• Get the family to go meat or fish free for a day.
• Get together with friends for a “Green Party” with organic food and drinks.
• Visit the Recycle IT electrical recycling display at South Dublin County Council office in Tallaght.

Recycle IT for Eco Week

Starting April 1st 2019 residents living and businesses operating in South County Dublin can benefit from free recycling. They can recycle all dual-purpose home and small office electrical/electronic equipment free with Recycle IT during Eco Week 2019 and afterwards!

Recycle IT

All you need to do is drop off your electrical equipment at the Recycle IT recycling facility in Clondalkin. The team will be on hand all week to help you will lifting or moving items. You can in advance on 01 4578321 to let them know your coming or to get directions. The centre is open for drop off from 8.30am to 4pm Monday to Thursday and 3pm on Friday.

WEEE to work

Recycle IT in association with South Dublin County Council will operate a WEEE to Work Collection for waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). People working in local organisations and businesses are invited to participate by bringing their old electrical items to work

The Recycle IT team will accept any items with a plug or a battery. Batteries will also be collected during the week, just bag or box them and bring them along. If you wish to organise a dedicated and free WEEE to Work Collection from your office or business, Recycle IT will be happy to support.

Recycle IT – Collection Service

Display

As part of our electrical recycling display, drop off points will be avaialalbe in the lobby of the South Dublin County Council offices in Tallaght to recycle small electircal items so bring them from home and drop in when passing!

Information 

If you have questions or would like to arrange a WEEE to Work collection from your office, please call us on 01 4578321 or email: info@recycleit.ie. You can also visit the website www.recycleit.ie to learn more about electrical recycling.

For more information on Eco-Week or to book a place at an event please visit www.southdublin.ie or contact the Environmental Awareness Section, South Dublin County Council on 01 4149000.

Electrical Recycling in Work Initiative 2019

Recycling your old Electrical Equipment in Work 

Electrical and electronic equipment such as computers, TVs, fridges, tablets, and mobile phones are some of the fastest-growing waste streams in the EU, with some 9 million tonnes generated in 2005, and expected to grow to more than 12 million tonnes by 2020. (Source: The European Commission)

Recycle IT – General Household Electrical Items for Recycling

Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) combines a mixture of materials, components, and hazardous content. If not properly managed this mixture can cause major environmental and health concerns. It also worth noting the production of new electronics requires the use of scarce and expensive resources (e.g. around 10% of total gold worldwide is used for their production).

Collection, treatment, and recycling of electronics at the end of their life is therefore essential. This process helps improve the management of old electrical and electronic equipment and contributes positively to a circular economy and enhance resource efficiency. It also helps maintain and create jobs in our local economy.

Recycle IT – Old Computer Equipment

WEEE to Work Initiative 2019

In order to help with recycling old electrical appliances, Recycle IT are offering organizations of all shapes and sizes based in South Dublin the opportunity to host a WEEE to Work event which will allow staff to recycle all old electrical and electronic equipment. All you need to do is contact our office to book your collection. Please remember we need a minimum for 50 – 60 electrical items to make the collection a success, both from a cost and environmental perspective. Items for recycling can be large or small.

You can recycle any dual-purpose home or small office items with a plug or battery, free, including batteries through a free collection all supported by Recycle IT. Please find a full PDF lists here of the type of items recycled.

WEEE To Work with Recycle IT in 2019

Recycle IT will provide the collection team, help and transport to collect items from a central location on a pre-arranged day, usually in the morning after 9am and before 1pm.

As part of the Spring Clean and Reuse Month initiatives, South Dublin Country Council have agreed to have a WEEE recycling receptacle available in their offices in Tallaght to allow staff to recycle. during April and Oct each year.  Your company can follow their lead by placing a reusable receptacle e.g. a large box or bin in your building for the collection of old electrical items.

Please note, Recycle IT are not in a position to provide receptacles as it not environmentally, time or cost-friendly. 

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning not for profit social enterprise providing a collection and drop off service for all types of waste electrical, electronic and metal items. During the last 18 months Recycle IT offer drop off and collection services to 110,000 homes and organizations in Dublin and surrounding areas over the last 18 months collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of dishwashers, computers, cables, monitors, microwaves, TV’s and metal items.

Our electrical community collection service is provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT are supported by Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

Call us on 01 4578321 or email us at here

Visit our website www.recycleit.ie

Recycle IT – JCI Friendly Business Award Winner 2019