How to Reuse and Recycle Old CDs and DVDs

[dave]

How to Reuse and Recycle Old CDs and DVDs
Avoid throwing all those CDs and DVDs into a public landfill. Make existing use of them more efficient and of longer duration. Reuse those that are no longer useful in creative and interesting ways.


STEPS:
# Extend the life and efficiency of the CDs and DVDs that you are using. Whether you use them for data storage, for exchanging information with friends, or for watching movies, there are some ways to get the most out of your disks and to ensure that they last longer:

    * Keep CDs and DVDs out of heat and direct sunlight. Light and heat can melt or warp the disks.
    * Keep CDs and DVDs in their covers. They are at risk of scratching if you leave them lying about without a cover. Always make it a practice to return the CD or DVD to its cover after use. Not only will it help to prevent any damage to the disk but it will also make finding it again easier.
    * Use the best quality disk for the task. If you are storing photos, use high quality photo DVDs or CDs. They will last longer and will be less likely to corrupt your data.
    * Use DVDs in place of CDs for data storage. You will reduce the amount of disks needed, as a DVD can store 6 times as much information as a CD.
    * Use rewritable CDs and DVDs where possible. This means that the data can be re-added several times, extending the useful life of the disk.



# Don't buy new movie DVDs or music CDs. There are other ways to reduce your DVD clutter and to discourage the manufacture of too many copies:

    * Rent from a DVD rental outlet.
    * Purchase old rental DVDs from the rental outlet for a fraction of the cost.
    * Purchase secondhand music CDs.
    * If you are purchasing secondhand DVDs or CDs, buy from a reputable dealer and always check the disk for scratches under good light.




# Re-use unwanted and old CDs and DVDs for craft projects. There are many possibilities and only some ideas are suggested here. Turn the challenge of toss-away into the opportunity for creative genius:

    * Use them as coasters. Decorate them with gems and stickers, and glue felt on the bottom. Or draw designs on them with markers. These can be great for clubhouses, funky cafes and bars as you can include your logo or company name.
    * Use them as a window decoration. Use clear fishing or darning thread to create a hanger for the CD or DVD. Decorate the disk as desired or just leave plain - the sun will catch the color spectrum in the disk and reflect the colors of the rainbow.
    * Glue paper designs on them and make them into shiny fish or funny faces.
    * Make a shiny mobile from several disks.
    * Try a CD sculpture. See the photo at the top of this article for an example.
    * Glue disks to a backing of some sort and use the disks to cover a wall.
    * Create artwork from the disks.
    * Use as paint palettes for kids working with acrylics: they're washable, fit well in small hands and are fun and shiny.
    * Make some bird scaring devices. Tie invisible thread onto the disks and hang the disks from trees, plant stakes etc. to scare unwanted critters away from your garden and/or lawn. The reflective rays bouncing off the disks discourage birds. Try to have some disks clanking against each other for added impact.
    * Use the disks as reflectors on bicycle spokes.



TIPS
    * Find places to recycle your unwanted CDs and DVDs. Some examples include You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login, or look for charity organizations, such as the SPCA's fund-raising to support dogs at SPCA.
    * Mold the disks. If CDs or DVDs are put into near boiling water in a pan and carefully removed they can be cut fairly easily with scissors into different shapes (for badges, decorations etc). Take care not to leave too long in the water and keep an eye on their progress at all times. Only do this in a well-ventilated area to avoid being affected by possible off-gassing from the chemicals used to make disks.
    * If your disks have writing or designs on one side, you can glue two disks face to face to hide this. Silicone sealant does a good job and keeps disks together strongly, even if left outside.

[Joelle]

cool b ut the other discoball is more creative