Waste is a huge problem in the world as a whole today, and most of us contribute to that waste every day without really thinking about it; upcycling is a way that everyone can decrease that waste. There are some things that are outside of our power, but when it comes to the things that we do have some say in we should be taking the time to consider the difference that we could make. Recycling is an obvious way to help to reduce the negative effect that we have on the planet. Most people know about the importance of reducing single-use plastic, and recycling cans and bottles, but those aren’t the only important things to do. Did you know that the textile industry is responsible for one fifth of the worlds industrial water pollution, and almost five percent of all landfill space, not to mention the air pollution? The textile industry and fast fashion are doing a lot of damage to our planet, and they are not the only industry having such a huge negative impact. Not everyone has the ability to make a huge difference on their own, but there are little things we can all do every day to help to curb this damage, and when we all stand together is when we make that difference. Just one of the little things that we can all do is to upcycle and reuse things that we wouldn’t necessarily think twice about throwing out normally.
The definition of upcycling is as follows: “reuse (discarded objects or materials) in such a way as to create a product of higher quality or value than the original.” There are a ton of suggestions out there for how you can do this, but I have listed below some practical, some décor related, and some miscellaneous, but none the less interesting. While what I have listed here are simply a few things that can be upcycled and a handful of things they can be turned into, feel free to check out the articles in the sources section for links to the how-to articles, and to keep on learning about ways to upcycle, reuse, and even resell the items you might normally throw away. Without further ado, a few ways you can upcycle everyday items to save the planet, and your wallet, from unnecessary damage:
Practical:
Dish Rack – File Folder
Glasses Case – Mini Sewing Kit
Corks – Coasters, Jewelry Hangers
T.P. Rolls – Jewelry Organizers
Drawers – Shelving
Old Jeans – Baskets, bags
Wine Bottles – Tiki torches
Washing Machine – Firepit
Ladder – Shelving, hanging (for pots, pans, plants, etc)
Crates – Book shelves, end tables, storage
Tea Cups – Candles, planters
Grocery Bags – Tote bag
Décor:
Bundt Pan – Pumpkin
Grocery Bags – Doormat
Sweaters – Decorative Pillows
Shirts – Rugs, Pillows
Wine Bottles – Vases, Pendent Lamp
Old Jeans – Rugs
Old Maps – Revamp Furniture, coasters, etc
Windows – Gallery photo wall
Fashion:
Sweaters – Scarves, Headbands
Newspapers – Jewelry
Necktie – Necklaces
Shirts – Handbag, scarves, headbands
Pillowcase – Cosmetic bag
Upcycling is such an amazing way to keep using items that you might never think to keep otherwise. It can save you money, space, and make for fun activities while helping you to be a more responsible global citizen. Let me know in the comments if you have tried any of these, or if you have your own ways of upcycling. We are here to help you as you find ways to do this with the beautiful selection of recycled furniture, décor, and more available at Fifthroom.com.
Make some extra cash:
Not only can being a more mindful consumer save you from spending unnecessary money, it can even make you more. We could all use a little extra cash, and if we can help the planet while we do that, why wouldn’t we? We live in an age where most of the world is at our fingertips at any given moment, which is the perfect time to start your side-hustle. Whether this is something you have been thinking about for a while now, or a fresh inspiration, selling home made (or home upcycled) goods can be something deeply fulfilling for a variety of reasons. Pretty much any of these ideas (and the many more out there) can be used to start your side-business. Let me know in the comments if you have been inspired by any of the ideas above!
Sources :
https://www.nrdc.org/issues/encourage-textile-manufacturers-reduce-pollution
https://harmony1.com/textile-waste-infographic/
https://www.personalcreations.com/blog/50-new-uses-for-old-things
https://www.popsugar.com/smart-living/photo-gallery/24338804/image/31414183/Coffee-Grounds-Candle
https://www.pillarboxblue.com/clever-upcycling-ideas-a-to-z-of-resources/
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