Dear Recycle Lady,
A couple weeks ago you wrote about our ecological footprint and our carbon footprint. When reading more information about these two footprints, I came across the term Earth Overshoot Day. What in the world is Earth Overshoot Day? Puzzled Reader
Dear Puzzled Reader,
Earth Overshoot Day is the day that all the natural resources the Earth has produced for the year are used up. These natural resources include: 1. water for drinking, agriculture and industry; 2. forests for timber, paper and biodiversity of habitat; 3. soil for agriculture and food production; 4. fossil fuels such as oil and natural gas for the production of energy; 5. minerals for electronics, construction and manufacturing; and 6. renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and hydroelectric power.
July 24, 2025, was this year’s Overshoot Day. According to earth.org, July 24, 2025, “marks the day when humanity’s resource consumption exceeds the Earth’s capacity to regenerate those resources for the year, a reminder of how unsustainable modern consumption patterns are and how these are adding immense pressure to our planet’s ecosystems.”
Dear Recycle Lady,
I have several power cords, chargers for cell phones, tablets, and laptop computers, that were used to power my old electronic devices. Can these power cords be recycled? Electronic User
Dear Electronic User,
Yes, power cords are considered electronic waste or e-waste and definitely can be recycled. According to Familyhandyman.com, e-waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams worldwide, but only about 15% to 20% of e-waste is recycled.
Each new electronic device seems to have a new charger or power cord that is not compatible with the one used for the former device. Thus, these cords accumulate over time. Old power cords, including cable cords, chargers and wires of any kind, are not only accepted and recycled at the Recycling Center, but they will also pay you the current market value for the copper that is in the cords. Or, the cords can be donated to help offset the Recycling Center’s operating expenses.
The Recycling Center also recycles other small electronic e-waste items such as phones, tablets, computer keyboards and electronic mice. Desk computers, laptop computers, and flat screen monitors are also recyclable. However, the Recycling Center is unable to accept the old large TV-like monitors for computers as there is no market for them.
All e-waste items can be placed in the yellow basket outside the Aluminum can door at the Recycling Center. If you need help, ring the bell just inside the aluminum can door and someone will come to assist you.
Dear Recycle Lady,
I have recently purchased a new microwave. Can my old microwave be recycled? Recycler
Dear Recycler,
All devices, including microwaves, that plug in and require the use of electricity can and should be, recycled. Electronics are classified as electronic waste and can harm the environment if placed in the landfill. You must take your microwave to the Recycle Center, as curbside pickup won’t take it. For assistance, go to the aluminum can door entrance and push the button. If your microwave still works, consider donating it. There are several opportunities to do so in this area. The Caldwell Thrift Store in Caldwell and Greenbrier Better Living in Ronceverte both accept donations and make them available at very low prices. Restore in Lewisburg accepts donations for resale to benefit Habitat for Humanity, and Goodwill in Fairlea accepts donations for resale.
Good News! Juvenile corals are so small that researchers often struggle to spot them on reefs. Understanding their development is crucial to protecting coral ecosystems. NIGHTSEA developed underwater flashlights and microscope attachments that use fluorescent light, making it easier to detect and study these tiny corals. The technology is so effective that scientists now use it to examine microscopic marine life, analyze microplastics and explore the seafloor. (fto.com).
Have questions about recycling or interesting information about recycling? Send questions or requests to Recyclelady7@gmail.com. Dear Recycle Lady is sponsored jointly by the Greenbrier Recycling Center and Greenworks Recycling.
