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Ambitious plan to phase out single-use plastic opposed by chemicals industry – while green groups say law too timid Industry groups say the law places an undue burden and financial cost on manufacturers. Photograph: Allison Dinner/EPA A groundbreaking California law that compels packaging producers to phase out single-use plastics is already sparking anger from the chemicals industry and environmental groups just weeks after going into effect. The law, which was signed by Gov

Metal is the fifth most common material in U.S. household trash, behind paper, food, plastics, and yard trimmings, according to the EPA’s most recent national data. Unlike those other heavyweights, metal is inert in a landfill and doesn’t burn, so every can, pan, or appliance that ends up buried just sits there indefinitely while we mine fresh ore to replace it. That waste is almost entirely avoidable, though future generations may thank us for provisioning mines with ample s

The circular model, based on packaging designed for at least 40 uses, will reduce the impact of single-use plastic by up to 95%. The companies AUSOLAN, AWAYTER, ITC Packaging and the AIMPLAS Plastics Technology Centre are collaborating on this project. Image Credit: AIMPLAS More than 400 million tonnes of plastic are produced worldwide every year, and approximately half of this is designed for single-use, according to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Less than

Most of us feel a small sense of satisfaction when we take out the recycling. Whether you set materials on the curb, bring electronics to a drop-off center, it can feel like the final step in doing the right thing. That moment is just the beginning of a complex journey. Once your recyclables leave your hands, they enter a global system shaped by local policies, international markets, technology, and consumer demand. Understanding what happens next is key to becoming a more in

When it rains, water runs off your roof, driveway, and sidewalks, picking up fertilizers, oil, pesticides, and sediment before flowing into storm drains and eventually your local waterways. This cycle wastes valuable water in both directions. A rain garden is a smart solution. It redirects stormwater runoff into a shallow, planted area where the water filters naturally through soil, recharges groundwater, and nourishes plants without using any extra water. A well-designed rai

Recycling beverage containers in California is more than just a good habit. It’s a way to earn money back while helping the environment. The California Redemption Value (CRV) program encourages people to return eligible containers for a refund. I want to share what I’ve learned about this process and how you can make the most of it. Whether you have a few bottles or a big batch, understanding the CRV recycling process can save you time and get you cash quickly. What Is the CR

It's Giving Tuesday - a day established more than a decade ago with the simple idea of inspiring people to do good. Please consider a gift to CRI to support our research, education and advocacy on optimal solutions to increase recycling of beverage containers and other packaging materials. We are proud to be top-rated by Candid (formerly GuideStar) and GreatNonprofits, and pledge that your dollars will be managed responsibly and stretched miraculously to help us do what's rig

Thanksgiving is a time for family, stuffing your face in delicious food and showing appreciation for the blessings of the year and the abundance in harvests. While the history behind Thanksgiving is much darker and is left out of what we celebrate now, there’s no denying that it has become an important annual event for families to gather, connect and express gratitude. If you’re looking for meaningful ways to celebrate this Turkey day, here are 15 meaningful traditions for y

Recycling is more than just a way to help the environment. It can also be a source of extra income. Many people don’t realize that they...

7 habits to keep your phone out of the landfill By Matt Berical September 11, 2025 With each new smartphone generation—whether it’s the...

Recycling beverage containers in California is more than just a good habit. It’s a way to earn money while helping the environment. The...

Changing our relationship with food is one of the biggest things we can do BySara Kiley Watson Global food waste is a huge social,...

Domestic rare earth company MP Materials and major OEM Apple this week announced a collaboration in which Apple has committed to buy $500...

Published: April 2, 2025 Updated: April 2, 2025 by Antoinette Smith A March 27 webinar featured tips and best practices from recycling...

When it comes to beds (and pillows), think creativity first, landfill last By Kate Bratskeir March 27, 2025 For an item with such a...

California generates nearly 15 billion plastic beverage containers annually, yet plastic caps remain a leading source of plastic...

Hard hats protect workers in construction, manufacturing, and other hazardous environments. But like all safety gear, they have a...

Sure, Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, but you don’t need a special day to surprise your significant other with something...

Warm, rich, and hearty. Light and refreshing. Spicy and silken. The styles, flavors, and textures of soups are limitless. Even if you’re...

Gifting can be humbling. However deeply you know someone, that feeling when your thoughtfully researched present doesn’t land smarts like...