Recycle Those Old CDs

Millions of CDs, DVDs and plastic covers are tossed out every year.  They are generally either incinerated or reach landfill sites. In either case the pollution resulting from the disposal of these products could have been avoided if the owner knew what to do with them (or wasn't so lazy).  Sometimes discs are disposed of for the simple reason that they are scratched and not useable as is. You can attempt to repair small scratches using a mild abrasive such as toothpaste and work the abrasive with radial strokes out from the center.

Alternatively you can send your disc(s) to a professional refinisher such as AuralTech CD Refinishing. They charge about $3 and guarantee the results. Another option is to give music / movie discs to charity or trade in at a music store. If none of these options are possible then the next step is to prepare for recycling by first separating the plastic case from the disc and paper cover insert. 

The paper can be handled as per normal paper recycling.  The discs can be stored in a box or 50/100 CD holder until you figure out what you want to do with them. Plastic covers can be saved and re-used when other covers are damaged. Alternatively, you can find out if your local library accepts CD covers. Many times the covers get damaged on loan.

Below are some other ideas for recycling your saved up items. Plastic covers:

• Construct a collection showcase (butterflies, stones, etc). Click here for an example.
• Glue felt on the bottom and use as coasters;
• If you are an artist consider using the inside of the cases as mini-palettes for your paints;

Discs:

• Take two discs and glue them together, shiny sides out. Hang them up to:
  • Keep birds out of your garden;
  • Repel flies (unconfirmed);
  • Use as a suncatcher.

• Use as a substitute for wallpaper, window or mirror border;
• Use as Christmas tree decoration - use glitter glue and/or decorative paint to make it more interesting
• Use them as Christmas light reflectors outside. C-7 size bulbs fit through the opening;
• Use as reflectors along your driveway or sidewalk;

If you are not the artistic type and still can't figure out what to do with the CDs and covers then check to see if they can be handled through normal curbside pickup or at a local recycling facility. Barring all of these options they can be mailed to a recycling company by ground transportation to one of many recycling facilities. You should be able to find the closest company using a web search.