12/21/12

With hundreds of millions of plastic PVC gift cards purchased, redeemed and exchanged every year, the question many people ask is: Are gift cards recyclable? Yes, they are. Since plastic gift cards aren’t biodegradable or usually accepted in curbside recycling bins, the next thing is to send your batch of depleted cards to Earthworks Systems for recycling. Earthworks grinds up the old cards and makes them into giant sheets of plastic to be used for new products. Send your gift cards (and canceled credit cards) to Earthworks Systems, 33200 Bainbridge Rd., Suite E, Solon, OH 44139.

12/20/12

When renting cars, ask about getting a hybrid car at the rental counter. Many chains like Hertz, National and Enterprise now have hybrid cars in their fleets at regular prices, which means you can save money on fuel expenses without paying a premium for the rental. Another bonus: Many hotels have reduced or free parking charges if you show up in a hybrid. Most Kimpton hotel properties offer free valet parking if you arrive in a hybrid. That can add up to hundreds of dollars in savings!

12/19/12

Cast iron cookware has been around for generations, and it is extremely durable. But you may want to eventually replace your skillet and might wonder if you can recycle it. The answer is yes: Iron is the main component of steel, and cast iron cookware is highly desirable and recyclable. While you can’t recycle old cast iron in your curbside recycling, any scrap metal dealer will gladly take it, and you might even get paid for it.