ISRI states, "Designing with recycling in mind means recognizing that a product's usefulness does not end because its original intent has run its course. By designing with this methodology, manufacturers use recycling and repurposing to plan the product's new lifecycle, reducing waste and reliance on natural resources."

Some products are more easily recycled or have higher recyclability than others. For example, single-use plastics like forks and spoons are often caught in recycling machinery because of their small and narrow shape and are, therefore, not very recyclable. But plastic bottles are easily recycled - and a bottle you recycle today could end up in the shirt you wear tomorrow.

In this activity, you will look at a common item you use in your home or classroom and rethink its design to increase its recyclability.

Materials:

• Device with internet access
• A common item from home or the classroom is labeled for recycling for each student group

Safety Notes:

• When using technology, engage in safe, legal, and ethical behavior; this applies to devices (hardware), applications or programs (software), and interactions with others.
• Ensure that the items reviewed are clean and safe to handle (no sharp metal edges, etc.).

Part 1: Research

1. Watch the video called Recycling's Role in Sustainability at Web Link - ISRI + JASON Learning Partnership .
2. Apply the principles of recyclability to the item you are looking to improve.
   1. Items smaller than 3 inches x 3 inches for 2D items, like paper or 3x3x3 inches for 3D items, are likely to fall through the equipment at the recycling facility and not be recycled.
   2. Items that are made from multiple materials are harder to recycle. Making something out of a single type of metal, one plastic resin, or all of paper makes it more recyclable.
   3. Being able to remove individual parts from a product is an important part of the repair or recycling process. Avoid using glues that make it difficult to detach pieces. Mechanically attach pieces using screws or buttons instead.
3. Review additional resources about sustainability and recyclability. Here are a few resources to get you started:
   1. Web Link - The Circular Design Guide
   2. Web Link - Circular Packaging Assessment Tool
   3. Web Link - Circular Design Kit

Part 2: Development

1. Using your research, redesign the item to increase recyclability.
2. Design Requirements:
   1. Highlight the specific item and identify the materials the item is made of. Your item should be metal, plastic, paper, or glass.
   2. Ensure customer satisfaction.
   3. Maximize the use of renewable materials for the item.
   4. Explain how recycling will take place across the product's lifecycle.
   5. Minimize the environmental impact across the item's lifecycle.
   6. Include a picture or visual representation of your chosen item.
   7. Think creatively!

Part 3: Presentation

1. You will present your ideas to your class when your group has completed their research and redesign.
2. Consider the following:
   1. Assign speaking roles to ensure all group members have a chance to speak.
   2. Practice your presentation ahead of time.
   3. Ensure your visuals are clear and large enough for your audience to see from their seat.
3. Be prepared to offer feedback to your peers after they present their ideas. This can be in the form of questions or suggestions.

Reflect and Apply

1. Where did you encounter challenges with developing your ideas? student answers will vary. They may say it was figuring out what the item was made of, where or how it could be recycled, etc.
2. Why do you think the item was not designed with better recyclability in the first place?answers will vary but could include cost availability of materials, etc.

Additional Resources to Explore

• Curriculum - ISRI Recycling Collection | Grades K-12