Recycling is a positive action that needs to become more prevalent. However, people should not forget that it is last on the list (reduce, reuse, recycle) for a reason. Since recycling is a process that converts products made from specific materials back into their raw form to be used in the production of new goods, it is only feasible in certain cases. Unfortunately, it is often cheaper (in money and energy) to create new items from scratch. Therefore, reducing the generation of waste and reusing old merchandise for different purposes are both vital tools needed for sustainable living. Upcycling is a combination of the two. Unlike recycling, upcycling leverages the basic material of an object and its physical form. For instance, melting down a bag of chips (after eating the chips, of course) and using the plastic toward the generation of a toilet seat is a form of recycling. This sort of process usually produces downcycled material, meaning it is of lesser quality. In contrast, using the bag as a waterproof wallet (snack size) or purse (family size) would be considered upcycling. Upcycling is an essential combatant against the ever-growing amount of waste in the world, and is most effective through mass organization. Enter, TerraCycle. TerraCycle, headquartered in Trenton, N.J. but active on at least three continents, has established a collection program for traditionally non-recyclable waste that can be converted into a variety of consumer products available for internet purchase or at major retailers such as Home Depot and Whole Foods. The aim of the company is to eliminate the concept of waste by facilitating a status quo of reuse. Any school, community organization or company can sign up online, start collecting specific items (see Brigades), mail them in for free and earn cash or points. For some environmentalists, the idea of partnering with Walmart and other large retailers may be hard to swallow. When asked of any such criticisms, David Smith of Terracycle echoed the company's CEO in his response. The companies we work with are creating sustainable value in ways never before considered, creating greater brand awareness while keeping their products out of landfills. Our mission is to eliminate waste. Working with large producers is the most effective way to do this. Advertisement And their partnerships have proven to be valuable. Currently, one of TerraCycle's powerfully beneficial strategies is taking place in school cafeterias. This past year lunchtime waste was reduced at Lawrence Intermediate School (LIS) in New Jersey through the collection of Capri Sun drink pouches and Frito-Lay chip bags. The LIS recycling campaign – run by a group of sixth-graders – raised over 6000 points, $60 of which was put toward sustaining the program. The remainder was used to provide needy families with clean drinking water, food and school supplies. Similar efforts are now proudly under way in the bay area, at such locations as the Clarendon School, Cornerstone Academy and Glen Park School. These programs not only provide environmental and social benefits, but also serve to educate children on the importance of their future role as stewards of the planet. You can practice upcycling without being as resourceful as MacGyver, extremely creative, or a lover of second-hand shopping. Rather (or in addition), take advantage of the fact that you, or someone you know, has kids. Collection brigades can be facilitated by a school faculty member, classrooms, or an entire grade. Spread the word about TerraCycle's partnership with schools and get involved. Your local school can join at any time, but there are a number of summer incentives for getting started immediately.