At Project B Green, we believe in giving items a second life and reducing waste. Recycling is more than just paper and plastic—there are many items you may not realize you can recycle. Here are ten surprising things you can recycle:

1. Batteries: Don’t throw out used batteries! They contain harmful chemicals that can damage the environment. Instead, bring them to a recycling center or find a local retailer that offers battery recycling.
2. Electronics: Old phones, computers, and other electronics can be recycled for their valuable materials. Many electronics stores and recycling centers accept electronic waste.
3. Cooking Oil: Used cooking oil can be recycled into biodiesel. Check if your community has a collection program, or see if a local restaurant will accept your used oil.
4. Crayons: Kids outgrow crayons quickly, but they don’t have to end up in the trash. Some organizations will accept used crayons and recycle them into new ones.
5. Eyeglasses: Donate your old glasses to organizations that redistribute them to needy people. Many optometrists and nonprofit groups accept eyewear donations.
6. Carpet: When you replace your carpet, don’t throw it away. Many carpet manufacturers and recyclers will take old rugs and turn them into new products.
7. Holiday Lights: Those tangled holiday lights don’t need to go to the landfill. Many recycling programs accept string lights and recycled copper wiring.
8. Keys: Old keys can be recycled for their metal content. Some recycling centers accept keys, or you can mail them to specific recycling programs.
9. Tennis Balls: Worn-out tennis balls can be recycled. Specific organizations will accept them and reuse the materials.
10. CDs and DVDs: These items contain recyclable materials. Look for e-waste recycling programs that accept discs.

Recycling these items helps reduce waste and supports the environment. At Project B Green, we encourage you to think beyond the usual recyclables and consider how to recycle more in your everyday life.