Where to Divert

Though aiming for package free helps to reduce the amount we have to toss out, of course, we all still have to dispose of plenty of items. Luckily, there’s a good chance you can find many of them a new home, or a way to recycle them.

Here are some options for getting more life out of the items you no longer need:

  • Repairing – The Zero Waste DC Reuse Directory lists shops that will repair everything from shoes to electronics to musical instruments.
  • Reselling – Craigslist, Ebay, OfferUp, LetGo, specialty websites, and local yard sales are great ways to earn some cash.
  • Donating (goods) – There are dozens of organizations that gladly accept clothing, books, construction materials, furniture, and much more. Again, check the Zero Waste DC Reuse Directory for a list. Be sure to verify what items are accepted (and in what condition) before you donate. This list from Washingtonian magazine provides a handy overview of the range of items that can be donated easily.
  • Donating (food) – Find out where to donate food through the DC Food Recovery Working Group.
  • Sharing and Swapping – Join TrashNothing both to obtain and give away all sorts of household items. Exchange clean and gently used clothing, shoes, accessories, and books for some that are new to you at a SwapDC event.
  • Preventing – Often, the best way to keep items out of the landfill is to prevent them from coming into your home in the first place. While easier said than done, one way is to cut back on unwanted junk mail via Catalog Choice and other methods of Opting Out.

Recycling

  • Recycling in the Blue Bins – The city’s Zero Waste DC page has the scoop on what can and can’t go in the District’s blue bins. Take their quiz, or visit their interactive guide to type in any item and see how to recycle or dispose of it safely.
  • Textiles – Clothing, linens, and other textiles that are beyond repair or reuse can be given to Goodwill for recycling.
  • Electronics – Find out what is accepted at eCYCLE DC.
  • MOM’s Organic Market accepts a range of common items that can’t go in the blue bins, including bar wrappers, batteries, cell phones, natural cork, drink pouches, Brita filters, snack bags, and health and beauty packaging.
  • Whole Foods takes corks and has bins designated for plastic bags.