FULL CIRCLE:
Recycled-Content Product Lines

Recycled materials are also appearing in an increasing array of durable goods and other consumer products. Sometimes this is driven by consumer expectations, sometimes by the cost savings that using recycled materials can provide.

Some of this recycling is hidden: all steel contains at least 25 percent recycled steel; most aluminum engine blocks contain recycled metal. Some of it is self-evident: retreaded tires, reconditioned batteries and remanufactured computers.

Often, recycled-content products cost more than their non-recycled competition, but that may be offset by savings in maintenance. Plastic lumber decking is more expensive than wood, but it lasts longer and requires no painting or varnishing. Recycled aluminum roofing shingles cost more than some alternatives, but have a longer warranty.

Recycled-content product lines can be found among:

	Automotive parts and supplies: Recycled aluminum, plastic and steel are used increasingly in making car parts. Recycled plastic is used to make ice scrapers, license plate holders, oil pans, bed liners and more. Regular automotive maintenance improves performance and contributes to waste reduction by prolonging the useful life of automotive parts.
	Construction: Steel has always contained recycled material, and some carpet and textile makers have long been using postconsumer plastic. Recycled aluminum is used in siding and roofing, glass in windows. Recycled paper is used to make wallboard, ceiling tiles and doors. New specifications for plastic lumber and decking have increased use of this versatile, durable alternative.
	Lawn and garden: Recycled plastic offers a durable, low-maintenance alternative to wood for products such as birdfeeders, bins, edging and fencing, garden hoses, landscape timbers, mailboxes, tables and benches, planters, playground equipment, decks, trellises and weed control blankets. Crumb rubber is used as loose fill in play areas and as a backfill substitute for gravel.
	Hobbies and recreation: Look for recycled paper content in sketch pads and craft paper, sporting and camping equipment made with recycled plastic, aluminum and steel. There are tremendous waste reduction and reuse opportunities: Seek non-profit organizations such as re:ART in Columbus, that distribute unused office supplies and paints to Ohio artists and schools.
	Home furnishings and products: Recycled plastic is used in everything from trash bags and trash cans, storage bins and cleaning utensils to the textiles and padding used in rugs and furniture. Recycled steel is found in large and small appliances. Recycled paper is used in some furniture as well as some wall coverings. Look for floor mats made from recycled rubber.
	Home office and electronics: There are recycled-content versions of nearly every variety of stationery, copier paper and other office paper products. Recycled plastic is used to make writing utensils and other desk accessories. The replacement of millions of home computers and anticipation of a wave of upgrades to HDTV technology have spurred the growth of electronics remanufacturing and recycling programs.
	Personal items: Recycled plastic is used to make a wide variety of synthetic textiles, from polyester t-shirts to insulation for winter coats and quilts. Also look for recycled plastic in personal care products like brushes and thermometers, as well as entertainment items like audio and video tape cassettes. Chose recycled paper content in items like greeting cards, wrapping paper and computer paper.