Glass
How to Reduce, Reuse, & Recycle
Did You Know?
Over 10 states from the US allow residents to redeem glass containers for money. Unfortunately, Texas is not one of those states with Bottle Bills. In addition, other household glass cannot be recycled with food containers. It must be separated because of potential contaminants.
Recycling
Reusing
Reusing
THERE ARE EXCEPTIONS
SCIENCE TEACHERS & THEIR GLASS LAB EQUIPMENTS
Ways to Reuse Glass That Can't Be Recycled
When sorting your garbage, keep in mind that the following can't be recycled:
1. Broken Glass
2. Window Glass
3. Laboratory Glass
4. Glassware
5. Ceramics
6. Mirrors
7. Light bulbs- exceptions of fluorescent ones.
8. Frosted glass
For broken glass, it’s wise to handle it with caution and use rubber gloves. If you’re going to throw it away, make sure to wrap it in newspaper or old shirts or towels and seal the contents in a plastic or paper bag.
An alternative option is to try and reuse this trash and turn it into treasure. One inexpensive way to make broken glass reusable is to put it into an old-fashioned rock tumbler— you may remember these from your youth. This process can take a while, but it produces frosted glass as well as clear, smooth glass that can be handled. Then you can incorporate the smooth-edged glass in wall, floor or table mosaics , or try designing glass sculptures and candle holders. By reusing your leftover paint, the glass can be any color you like.
DIY Projects might not be for you, so you can collect any non-recyclable glass and find a local artist or glass blower who can reuse it more effectively. These types of glass may be unwanted and challenging to handle, but you can reclaim their potential by turning the broken pieces into beautiful décor and artwork.