Recycling CDs, DVDs, and Tapes

Remember the good old days when Blockbuster was the go-to spot for movie rentals, and we proudly burned our own mix CDs, DVDs, and tapes to jam out? Well, times have changed, and now most of our media has gone digital with platforms like Netflix and Spotify taking over.

This shift has left many of us with collections of CDs, DVDs, and VHS tapes tucked away, wondering what to do with them. If you find yourself in this situation, fear not! I've got some tips on how to handle these relics responsibly.

Can CDs, DVDs, and Tapes go in the recycling bin?

Unfortunately, tossing CDs and DVDs into the regular recycling bin is a big no-no. These discs are typically made from a mix of plastic resins, making them challenging to recycle through curbside programs.

To know your specific area's recycling laws, check your local .gov or sanitation department's website. Most likely, they won't accept CDs and DVDs due to their small size and flimsy nature, which can lead to breakage and tangling during the recycling process.

So what happens if we toss them in the trash? Well, it's not a pretty picture. Most of these discs will end up in landfills or incinerators, releasing harmful chemicals into the air when burned, like sulfur dioxide, dioxins, and hydrochloric acid. Not good for the environment or our health!

Now, let's talk about VHS tapes. These relics are made from a mix of plastic resins too, making them unsuitable for regular recycling. Donating old VHS tapes to thrift stores or giving them to friends is a great way to give them a new life. Even damaged tapes can often be repaired and resold. It's a win-win!

How to recycle/ repurpose CDs

When it comes to old music CDs, don't just toss them away. Donate them to thrift stores or music resellers. Selling them online or giving them away on local Facebook marketplaces is another cool idea. Maybe some friends or family members would love to add them to their collection or still use DVD players and stereos.

If you're feeling artsy, DIY art projects can be a fantastic way to upcycle these old discs. You can even check with local artists to see if they're interested in incorporating them into their creative projects.

For the truly eco-conscious, there are specialized recycling options available. Companies like GreenDisk can handle your old media responsibly. Just remove any paper sleeves before sending them off. Some BestBuy locations also accept electronic waste, including CDs and DVDs.

Terracycle's storage media zero waste box is another great option. You can get one for yourself or ask your local music/DVD store if they'd consider providing one for their customers.

Bottomline

If all else fails, and recycling or upcycling isn't an option, you can toss the CDs in the general waste. But let's do our best to avoid that and explore more sustainable choices!

So, let's bid farewell to our beloved CDs, DVDs, and VHS tapes responsibly, giving them new life or recycling them properly. It's time to embrace the digital age while still being mindful of our environmental impact!