Author: Lucy Ravenhall

Lucy is a long-standing editor of the Forge Recycling blog and loves writing about her environmental passions.

International Beaver Day: A celebration of our ecosystem engineers

Did you know that beavers play a vital role in creating and maintaining wetlands, providing a home for countless plant and animal species? Next month, we’ll celebrate the sixteenth International Beaver Day. This day is a chance to recognise beavers as ecosystem engineers and see their environmental impact.

Join us as we dive into the significance of International Beaver Day. We’ll explore how to celebrate, why beavers matter, and share fascinating facts about these remarkable mammals.

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How to reuse Easter eggs

Easter in Britain means family gatherings, roast dinners, and mountains of chocolate. In fact, for 65% of Brits, the word “Easter” brings chocolate to mind first. So, it’s no wonder shops sell around 80 million Easter eggs yearly, with the average child unwrapping eight.

But what happens after the egg hunts end? Piles of chocolate go uneaten, and when the excitement fades, some people throw out their leftovers. However, instead of binning excess chocolate or plastic eggs, you can learn how to put them to good use.

Let’s explore ways to enjoy an eco-friendly Easter by creatively repurposing your eggs.

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World Water Day: A beginner’s guide

Clean drinking water is vital for human survival, yet a staggering 2.2 billion people worldwide don’t have access to it. Meanwhile, 3.5 billion lack safe sanitation, increasing the risk of disease and threatening public health.

World Water Day highlights these issues, celebrates the value of water, and raises awareness about the urgent need for change.

Join us as we explore World Water Day, learn about this year’s theme, and find meaningful ways to support the fight for water equity at home, work, and school.

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What is greenwashing, and why is it a problem?

Climate change is no longer a distant threat — it’s already impacting our world, causing extreme weather events like droughts, heat waves, wildfires, and floods. In response, consumers are becoming increasingly aware of brands’ environmental impact.

However, not all companies play fair. Some use deceptive tactics to appear sustainable when they’re not — an act known as greenwashing.

Join us as we explore the many forms of greenwashing, why it’s so damaging, and, most importantly, how to identify and challenge it. Together, we’ll uncover the truth behind misleading marketing strategies, empowering you to make genuinely sustainable choices.

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Are log burners bad for the environment?

With rising energy prices, householders are seeking cost-effective ways to stay warm. Enter log burners: now heating around 8% of UK homes. Their popularity is partly due to their ability to cut costs by providing targeted warmth. However, their crackling flames, woody aroma, and nostalgic charm make them a sought-after addition to many properties.

Despite their appeal, log burners come with significant environmental concerns. Are their benefits enough to outweigh their impact on air quality and carbon emissions? Join us as we explore the pros and cons of log burners,  examine their environmental impact, and outline greener alternatives.

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Electric toothbrush vs bamboo toothbrush: which is more sustainable?

In recent years, oral care has embraced a greener path. Innovative products have emerged to enhance dental health while respecting the planet, such as biodegradable dental floss, toothpaste tablets, and bamboo toothbrushes.

It’s widely understood that bamboo toothbrushes and electric ones with replaceable heads are more eco-friendly than manual plastic or single-use electric toothbrushes. But a debate persists. Which is the most sustainable choice — electric or bamboo?

Join us as we examine the environmental impact of bamboo and electric toothbrushes, including production, use, and disposal, to gauge which minimises the user’s footprint the most.

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A beginner’s guide to metal recycling

Humans have been melting and remelting metal for over 9,000 years. This ancient practice, evidenced by clay tablets in Mesopotamia and inscriptions from Ancient Egypt, has continued worldwide, forming a vital part of our history and sustainability efforts.

Metal is not just a material — it’s a vital component in our everyday lives. From car bodies and food cans to electronics and plumbing, it’s hard to imagine a world without metal. But what happens when these items reach the end of their lifespan?

Recycling plays a crucial role in environmental preservation and economic stability. Join us as we explore the world of metal recycling, including metal types and the recycling process.

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A beginner’s guide to bar and pub waste management

Did you know you can prevent or recycle most pub and bar waste?

Waste reduction and recycling can significantly impact your profits. It can also boost your brand’s reputation and corporate social responsibility while reducing environmental impact.

Let’s explore tips for reducing and recycling waste in your hospitality business. These will ensure you’re serving customers, your pocket, and the planet.

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How to reuse and recycle coffee pods

Coffee pods have become the UK’s most popular choice for at-home coffee machines. They offer a quick way to enjoy barista-style brews from the comfort of your home. However, the convenience of coffee pods comes at a cost — to your wallet and the environment.

Join us as we explore coffee pod recycling and reuse, share creative ideas for repurposing them, and introduce eco-friendly alternatives for your daily caffeine fix.

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Five balloon decoration ideas without helium

Balloons have long been a symbol of celebration, adding colour and joy to any party. However, the environmental impact of traditional balloons (often single-use and reliant on the non-renewable resource helium) has become a growing concern.

The good news is you don’t have to give up balloons to host an eco-conscious event. In a previous post, we discussed how to reuse helium balloons. Today, we’re sharing five creative, helium-free balloon display ideas to impress your guests.

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