RECYCLE BY NUMBER - PLASTIC RECYCLING SYMBOLS

The next time you use a plastic disposable item, take a look at the symbol on the bottom to see what kind of plastic it is.  On most plastics, you'll see the recycling symbol (three arrows chasing each other in a triangle) and a number 1-7 in the middle.  Below you'll find information about each type:

Plastic #1:  RECYCLED?  Often. IS IT SAFE?  Yes.  However, it is known to have a porous surface that allows bacteria to accumulate, so don't reuse these bottles again and again.

Plastic #2:  RECYCLED?  Often.  IS IT SAFE?   Yes!  Very safe and has low risk of leaching.

Plastic #3:  RECYCLED?  Rarely!  IS IT SAFE?  No!  There are chemicals in this material, called phthalates, that interfere with hormonal development.  You should avoid the use of #3 plastic around food and never cook using food wrap, especially in a microwave oven.

Plastic #4:  RECYCLED?  Rarely!  IS IT SAFE?  Yes.

Plastic #5:  RECYCLED?  Sometimes, depending on your location.  IS IT SAFE?  Yes.

Plastic #6:  RECYCLED?  No!  Polystyrene, or Stryofoam, is difficult to recycle and most recycling programs won't accept it.  IS IT SAFE?  No!  Lots of evidence suggests that this type of plastic leaches potentially toxic chemicals, especially when heated.  Avoid Plastic #6!

Plastic #7:  RECYCLED?  Rarely.  It is difficult to recycle this weird mix-up plastic and most programs won't accept it.  IS IT SAFE?  Uncertain.  Use of #7 plastic is at your own risk, since you don’t know what could be in it.  You should dispose of any food or drink related product, especially for children, that is known to contain BPA.

HAIL THE POWER OF MUSHROOMS!

Hey green friends!  I just learned about an amazing new use for fungus!  It turns out that an organic farm in California is growing mushrooms to be used as building and packaging materials.  Cool, huh?

In the picture above you see a cluster of mushrooms.  At the bottom of the cluster is a dark network of fibers called mycelium.  Mycelium is not for eating, but it IS fireproof, nontoxic and resistant to water.  It’s also stronger than concrete!!!

In this next picture, you can see a structure made entirely out of mycelium.  Maybe someday we can use it to make houses and bridges.  (Move aside Smurfs!)

The material is also being used as a green alternative to Styrofoam (a packing material that does not decompose, cannot be recycled and is awful for the environment).  After you receive a package stuffed with mushroom material, you can toss it into your garden as compost!

Hooray for mushrooms!