Recycling
Tom Szaky shares insights on circular economy in podcast
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In a recent episode of Earth911's 'Sustainability in Your Ear' podcast, TerraCycle founder Tom Szaky explores the principles and challenges of building a circular economy. Szaky, who started the company as a college student, discusses innovative recycling strategies that turn waste into valuable resources. The conversation highlights TerraCycle's global impact and the need for systemic changes in waste management.
Deposit return systems aid recycling and save money
Deposit return systems encourage beverage container recycling by refunding small deposits to consumers. These programs reduce waste and litter while providing financial incentives. Widely used in Europe and parts of the US, they demonstrate environmental and economic benefits.
New method recycles rare earth elements from waste magnets
Researchers at Rice University have developed a process to extract rare earth elements from discarded magnets using less energy and fewer chemicals than traditional methods. The technique, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, heats waste materials rapidly with electricity and employs chlorine gas to separate valuable elements. This approach could help meet growing demand for these critical materials by tapping into electronic waste.
Rice University develops flash heating for rare earth recovery from e-waste
Researchers at Rice University have pioneered a rapid flash Joule heating technique that efficiently extracts rare earth elements from electronic waste. This method heats materials to extreme temperatures in milliseconds, achieving high recovery rates without harsh chemicals. The innovation addresses the critical need for sustainable sourcing of these vital minerals used in electronics and green technologies.
Guide updates tips for reusing and recycling garage items
An updated Earth911 article highlights ways to declutter garages by reusing or recycling common items, addressing the fact that three out of four U.S. garages are too full for cars. The guide, originally published in 2017, was revised in October 2025 to include recent developments in paint recycling. It emphasizes proper disposal to reduce environmental harm and stress from clutter.