Reduce, reuse and recycle

You probably know the three R’s of the environment – Reduce,
Reuse and Recycle.
You probably know the three R’s of the environment – Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. However, did you know that when it comes to practicing the three R’s, reusing can save even more energy, natural resources and landfill space than recycling?

In recognition of the many benefits of reuse, the South Valley is celebrating its first annual Second Chance Week right now. With the goal of putting more used stuff back into circulation, Second Chance Week will feature a diverse range of innovative reuse, resale and repair activities. Here’s the schedule.

Second Chance Week actually officially began this past weekend with the Annual South County Garage Sale. This event gave both sellers and shoppers a great opportunity to turn one person’s discard into another person’s treasure.

Monday was officially Fix It Day. Don’t get rid of it, fix it. Sew on that missing button, give a fresh coat of paint to your barbecue or put a new cushion on that favorite chair.

Today is Donate and Shop Local Thrift Stores Day. Tired of stuff you never use taking up space in your garage and attic? Looking for that one of a kind vintage coffee table? Donating and shopping at local thrift store helps charities in the community.

Wednesday is Donate Coats for Kids and Adults Day. Are there gently used coats you or your children have grown out of hanging in the closet? Bring them to Morgan Hill City Hall, 17555 Peak Ave., or Gilroy City Hall, 7351 Rosanna St. The coats will go to needy children and their parents.

Thursday is our first Pallet Recycling Day. The San Martin Transfer Station, 14070 Llagas Road, will accept wood pallets from residents and businesses at no charge for one day only. Pallets will be refurbished and given a second chance to be pallets.

Friday is Give Your Bottles and Cans a Second Chance Day. Don’t forget to recycle your water bottles and cans either in your weekly recycling or take them to a Bottle and Can Buy Back Center. For the location near you, check the yellow pages under Recycling Centers or call the Recycling Hotline at 1-800-533-8414.

Saturday is our first E-Waste Collection Event. From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. the San Martin Transfer Station, 14070 Llagas Road, will accept free of charge up to three computers and monitors, televisions or other small appliances per South Valley household. Additional items will be charged a fee.

Remember old stuff is good stuff, so choose to reuse.

Anthony Eulo is an assistant to the city manager for the City of Morgan Hill. He loves finding new uses for old things and welcomes your questions, comments and thoughts. He can be reached at en*****@************ca.gov or 779-7247.