Let’s learn about Closing the Loop:
- In nature lifecycles are circular, and when something dies it is returned to the earth providing materials for new life.
- Many of the items we make aren’t loopy. Often it is more a straight line where items are made, used and then thrown away.
- When we recycle items we make their lifecycle more loopy. Instead of throwing it away, it gets to be used again.
- Waste is only waste if it is wasted. If waste was viewed as a useful and valuable resource for making something new, it would no longer be thrown away. Recyclable aluminium cans and glass bottles already have a looping system.
- Product Stewardship is when companies are responsible for products at the end of their lifecycle. Batteries are an example of a product that is recycled this way. Manufacturers are responsible for taking used batteries back and making them into new batteries. We can make better choices when buying new products, when we understand their lifecycle.
Activity
Choose one of the engaging activities below to take action:
- Loopy Invention: Imagine a new way to make sure things don’t go into the garbage and instead get used again and again. Draw or write about how your loopy invention works.
- Upcycle Something: When we upcycle we stop something from going into the trash, by making it into something else, fixing it or improving it. You could make mittens or a hat out of old sweaters, make grocery bags out of old t-shirts, make homemade paper out of recycling or old books, turn a broken remote control into a toy car. The possibilities are only as limited as your imagination!
Journaling prompts
Choose one of the topics below to write about:
- Why might some restaurants want to switch to compostable take-out containers and utensils made of plant based products? Do you know of any restaurants that do this?
- Can you think of a way to reduce the amount of e-waste (waste from electronics) we create?
Videos
Check out some of our favourite Closing The Loop videos:
Extras
- Judy Moody Saves the World by Megan McDonald and Peter H Reynolds (chapter book ages 6-9)
- 5 Eco Friendly DIY’s by Nat Geo Kids
Related Podcasts
Listen to one of these great podcasts to learn more:
- “Fantastic Plastic” by BBC Radio 4’s Costing the Earth
- “The Future of Fashion” by BBC’s Costing the Earth
- “The products used again and again and again…” BBC Podcast
Programs in the RDCK
If you live in the Regional District of the Central Kootenay, check out these links:
- Product Stewardship– Learn where you can recycle things like batteries, electronics and paint
- What can I recycle?
Kahoot
Come play a Kahoot game with us…
