Tag: lifestyle

Why Proper Electrical Recycling Matters for Our Planet

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

People and Planet First Verified Matters

We’re proud to share that Recycle IT has been awarded the People and Planet First Verified status through Good Market – a platform that supports businesses creating positive change in the world. This recognition means a lot to us, and we want to explain why it matters and how it helps us continue our employment and electrical recycling mission.

Recycle IT is an Irish not-for-profit social enterprise based in Clondalkin, Dublin, that specializes in recycling waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) and metals. Established in 2002, the organisation works with households, schools, charities, community groups, and businesses to provide safe and environmentally responsible recycling services across Dublin and surrounding areas.

What is Good Market?

Good Market is more than just a marketplace. It’s a global platform that brings together businesses and organizations working for a better world. These are companies that don’t just focus on making profits, but also care deeply about people and the planet. From small farms and eco-brands to social enterprises and non-profits, Good Market connects these changemakers to customers, partners, and supporters.

They carefully review each organization before listing them. Only those that meet their high standards for social and environmental impact are approved and verified. Recycler IT as an electrical, electronic and metal recycler have been verified over a number of years.

What is “People and Planet First Verified”?

The People and Planet First badge is a special recognition given to social enterprises that put the needs of people and the environment at the center of their work. It shows that a business is not just talking about doing good – they are actually doing it in their daily operations.

To receive this badge, we must:

  • Prove that they are making a real positive impact.
  • Show that they care for workers, communities, and nature.
  • Be transparent, open, and accountable in our electrical recycling operations.
  • Use profits to grow their mission, not just enrich owners or shareholders.

This badge is also recognized by the UN Taskforce on the Social and Solidarity Economy, making it a meaningful global standard.

Why This Matters to Recycle IT

At Recycle IT, our goal has always been simple: to reduce electrical and metal waste, protect the environment, and create opportunities for people in our community. We collect and recycle e-waste and other materials in a way that is safe, responsible, and helps build a cleaner world.

Getting this badge means:

  • Our efforts are being seen and validated by a trusted global community.
  • We are part of a movement that values fairness, sustainability, and care.
  • We can connect with like-minded partners, customers, and supporters around the world.

This recognition pushes us to keep improving, to do even more, and to be proud of our role in the new economy – one that is not based on exploitation for electrical manufacturing, but on regeneration and inclusion.

Good for People. Good for the Planet.

The Benefits of Being Verified

Becoming People and Planet First Verified brings many benefits, especially for a mission-driven organization like ours:

  1. Trust and Credibility
    The badge shows that we meet high standards. Customers, funders, and partners can trust that we are serious about our impact. It helps us stand out in a crowded market.
  2. Global Visibility
    Good Market gives us a profile on its platform, where people from all over the world can find and support our work. This increases our reach and opens doors to new opportunities.
  3. Networking and Collaboration
    Being part of the Good Market community means we can connect with other verified enterprises, share knowledge, and work together on common goals.
  4. Continuous Support
    Good Market doesn’t just list our name – it helps us grow. They offer updates, tools, and learning resources to help us improve and stay aligned with our mission.
  5. Being a Part of Something Bigger
    We’re now part of a global movement that believes business can be a force for good. This is inspiring and motivating, and it helps us stay committed even when challenges come.

What’s Next for Recycle IT

This recognition is not the end – it’s just the beginning. We will keep working hard to serve our community, care for the planet, and offer fair, meaningful work to those who need it most. We’re looking at new ways to improve our electrical recycling process, reduce pollution, and educate people about waste and sustainability.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning, not-for-profit, social enterprise established to create employment and promote environmental awareness through electrical recycling and reuse. We work in partnership with WEEE Ireland and are authorized by your local authority to provide electrical, electronic, and pure metal recycling collections across Dublin since 2007. Recycle IT are fully compliant with WEEE Recycling Requirements and permit details are available here.

Over the last 20 year Recycle IT have happily offered safe electrical and electronic recycling services to households and small and medium size organisations across a range of sectors. We offer our services all over Dublin and in surrounding areas. We are happy to offer cost effective and safe computer, laptop or tablet data destruction for home users and small offices on request.

For more information about Recycle IT please click here.

Electrical Recycling Team at Recycle IT

Dublin On-Street Waste Compactors

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Awards, Climate change, Family, Green Technology, News, Social Enterprise, sustainability, We Recycle ITLeave a comment

Something New!

Dublin City Council has introduced new waste compactors on Fownes Street Upper and St Stephen’s Green to help keep our city cleaner and remove rubbish bags from pavements.

These easy-to-use compactors can hold much more waste than regular bin bags, helping to keep streets clean, tidy, and free from litter. They compress loose garbage into dense, uniform blocks, often the size of a small caravan. By replacing plastic rubbish bags left on pavements, the compressor help prevent bags being ripped open by birds or animals and reduce illegal dumping.

‘No More Rubbish Excuses’ campaign by Dublin City Council

Reason!

The compactors are designed for busy city streets and are part of Dublin City Council’s plan to create a cleaner, safer, and more attractive city for everyone.

Residents and businesses in the pilot area are now asked to use these compactors or arrange suitable collection options with their waste provider instead of leaving bags on the street.

The new system will help remove up to 1,000 plastic bags from Dublin streets every day, creating cleaner, safer, and more attractive public spaces for everyone.

Waste Compactor Onsite

No More Rubbish

The compactors are easy to use and are part of Dublin City Council’s wider “No More Rubbish Excuses” campaign to reduce litter and improve waste management across the city.

Please remember:

  • Do not leave rubbish bags on pavements
  • Use the new compactors responsibly
  • Do not place electrical items or batteries in the compactors
  • Help keep the area outside your home or business clean

By working together, we can create a cleaner, greener Dublin for residents, businesses, and visitors alike so please use the compactors responsibly and help keep Dublin clean.

Waste compactor at Fownes Street Upper D2

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is a not-for-profit social enterprise providing a community collection service for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). Yearly Recycle IT collect from thousands of organizations in Dublin and surrounding areas. Services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland, with support from South Dublin County Council, South Dublin Country Partnership, Pobal and the Irish Government.

Recycle IT is authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities in the Eastern Midlands Waste Region.

Recycle IT as a social enterprise is part-funded through the Community Services Programme operated by Pobal. Any income earned is used to finance operations which include the provision of training and employment opportunities.

Recycle IT Social Enterprise Award 2025

Office Recycling Tips for a Greener Office

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Awards, Climate change, Collections, Computer Recycling, Dublin, Electronic Equipment, IT Equipment, Social Enterprise, sustainability, We Recycle ITLeave a comment

Green Office – Home Office – Any Office:

Summer is coming, it’s brighter so may be it’s time to declutter and tidy? With that in mind, please find some recycling tips to stay eco-friendly at work this spring and year round!

As we know, office waste mainly consists of electrical, electronic, cardboard, paper, packaging and food waste, all of which can be reused, recycled or composted. The one type of waste which is most commonly hoarded for disposal later is old, unused or damaged electrical/electronic equipment.

Office Recycling Categories
Office Waste Separation

Some items just appear event! They might include glass or plastic bottles, cans plastic cups, coffee cups, and food trays and wrappers to name a few. These items can all be segregated and recycled in work or you could encourage staff and suppliers to use reusable items which can be collected and reuse. Disposal items arrival and leave quickly, it’s just to make sure they are recycled for good.

The benefits of introducing a program of reducing, reusing and recycling include;

  • Big euro savings in time on waste disposal costs.
  • Boost to staff morale with a focus on reducing, reuse and recycling.
  • Demonstrates the organisation is commitment to the environment.
  • Enhanced public perception of your organization as a green organization.
  • Promotes a green agenda with your trading partners.
  • Offer time and cost saving opportunities to staff.  
  • Relieves workplace anxiety – when you are organised, clean and tidy, anxiety is reduced.
Office Electrons Clear Out – Old Laptop Parts

Below you will find some tips that can be easily implemented and integrated into the day-to-day running of the office and office building. They may result in reduced office supplies usage, time ordering and money spent.

Tips on How to Reduce Office Waste

  1. Buy supplies in bulk to reduce packaging waste.
  2. Create a clear recycling station with labelled bins for paper, plastic, ink, and electronics.
  3. Your workplace should be encouraged to go paperless.
  4. Use digital signatures to avoid printing documents for signing.
  5. Only print if there is a real need for a hard copy.
  6. Meeting clients or colleagues online to save resources. It’s the norm now!
  7. Use e-mail or instant messages to save paper, time and money.
  8. Share team and event calendars.
  9. Draft documents can be reviewed on-screen before emailing.
  10. Reports and presentation should be electronic only
  11. If paper is required, use FSC–certified paper
  12. Research purchasing printers which print double-sided copies only.
  13. Photocopy and print double-sided.
  14. Scrap paper can be used to make note pads to take phone messages.
  15. Introduce a centralized filing system. This reduces multiple files,
  16. Enable the reuse of paper envelopes by putting a label on top of the old address.
  17.  Cut down on excess equipment sitting in the store, going out of date, e.g. electrical and electronic office equipment.
  18. Regularly service equipment, particularly computers, photocopiers, and printers, to prolong their lifespan.
  19. When equipment reaches its end of life use a registered and licensed electrical and electronic recycler to ensure equipment is safely made ready for reuse and recycling.
  20. Employees should regularly empty out their desk and return any unwanted office supplies to the stationery cupboard.
  21. Free or fee-based online newspaper subscription can reduce the amount of paper to be recycled.
  22. Cancel any unwanted magazine or newspaper subscriptions to avoid unwanted waste accumulating.
  23. Reuse binders and file folders.
  24. Office announcements can be posted online, sent via email or posted once in a centralized monitor or TV screen.
  25. Consider renting equipment that you use only occasionally rather than having to store it in the workplace.
  26. Encourage colleagues to bring lunch to work in reusable containers.
  27. Encourage management to have reusable silverware, plates and cups and a small coffee station in the office.
  28. Research and purchase products with less packaging or with no packaging at all.
  29. Install filtered water rather than a water cooler.
  30. Give your team a reusable water bottle.
  31. Offer secure bike parking.
  32. Source used desks, chairs and lockers (if required).
  33. Unplug equipment when not in use or overnight.
  34. Work from home when possible.
  35. Offer unused or surplus items to other organisation for reuse.
  36. Think about how you can have a green work party or events during the year.
  37. Set printers to default to black-and-white to reduce ink usage.
  38. Use refillable ink cartridges instead of single-use ones.
  39. Switch to energy-efficient LED lighting in your workplace
  40. Encourage staff to use reusable coffee cups instead of disposable ones.
  41. Choose rechargeable batteries instead of disposable ones.
  42. Donate or sell old furniture instead of throwing it away.
  43. Track waste and set reduction goals to encourage improvement.
General Office Recycling – Recycle IT 

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning social enterprise providing recycling collection and drop off services for all types of waste electrical, electronic equipment (WEEE) and pure metal items.

During 2023 Recycle IT operated drop off and collection services to of thousands of homes, schools, charities and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of batteries, computers, cables, monitors, kettles.  microwaves and screens.

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development, Dormant Accounts Fund, Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Leinster.

For further details about our free and cost-effective services call us on 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit the Recycle IT website at www.recycleit.ie

Recycle IT Approved and Verified

Sustainable Easter Tips for a Greener Celebration

On By JMCEIn Awards, Climate change, Dublin, Electronic and Electrical Recycling, Family, News, Social Enterprise, sustainability, We Recycle ITLeave a comment

Celebrate Simply:

In Ireland, Easter is a time of joy, family, and celebration, brighter days with summer not far away —but much like other times of celebration, it can also create a lot of unnecessary waste. This year, why not make a few simple changes to celebrate more sustainably?

Try reusing cardboard egg boxes for crafts is fun, creative, and eco-friendly. You can make models, decorations, or toys while reducing waste, saving money, and helping the environment at the same time.

Cut boxes into small cups to make bunnies or chicks, paint them, or turn them into decorated eggs. You can also use them to plant seeds, sort small items, or play colour games. When you’re finished, the cardboard can still go in the green recycling bin.

Change

Start by rethinking Easter packaging. Choose chocolates and treats with minimal or recyclable wrapping or support local producers who use eco-friendly materials. Better yet, consider homemade treats—they’re personal, delicious, reduce packaging waste and everybody in the house can lend a hand.

You can choose to ignore holiday trends. This includes avoiding web shops and high street stores selling decorations. Limit your social media exposure and focus on simplicity, keep spaces functional, and remind yourself decorations are costly, time consuming to buy, display, remove and store. They are not necessary for enjoyment or celebration.

Surplus Eggs

If you’re expecting lots of chocolate eggs as gifts, don’t let them go to waste once you’ve had your fill—incorporate them into desserts or cakes afterward. Leftover chocolate eggs are great for fun treats! Melt them for yummy hot chocolate, bake them into brownies or cookies, or make easy no-bake snacks like cornflakes nests or fridge cakes.

For Easter baskets, swap small chocolate eggs and single-use plastics for shredded paper, fabric scraps, or even reusable cloth and include gifts that last longer, like books, plants, or experiences instead of chocolate and disposable toys.

Finally, remember to recycle properly and compost food waste where possible. Small changes can make a big difference.

This Easter, celebrate thoughtfully—less waste, more meaning. 🌸

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning social enterprise providing recycling collection and drop-off services for all types of waste electrical, electronic equipment (WEEE) and pure metal items.

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development, Dormant Accounts Fund, Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Leinster.

For further details about our free and cost-effective services call us on 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit the Recycle IT website at www.recycleit.ie

Reuse and Recycling Tips – Refreshed for 2026

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

Small Steps

Small everyday choices can make a big difference to our environment. By reusing items, reducing waste, and recycling wherever possible, we can save resources, cut pollution, and protect our planet for future generations. These simple tips show easy ways everyone—at home, at school, and at work—can reduce waste and live more sustainably. Start with one change and build from there—every action counts.

Small Steps Matter

Reuse and Recycling Tips

  1. Use both sides of paper when writing or drawing.
  2. Give partially used printed paper to children or local schools for drawing.
  3. Bring food to school or work in reusable containers.
  4. Rent or hire schoolbooks and supplies instead of buying new.
  5. Hire gardening tools that are only used occasionally.
  6. Make a bird feeder by reusing a medium-sized plastic bottle.
  7. Choose low-energy light bulbs at home and in the office.
  8. Give unwanted clothes a second life by donating or reusing them.
  9. Reuse and repair items such as shoes and clothing whenever possible.
  10. Pass on seasonal children’s costumes as your children grow.
  11. Choose bar soap instead of liquid soap in plastic bottles.
  12. Buy long-lasting, durable products such as reusable razors and refillable pens.
  13. Use rechargeable batteries for household appliances.
  14. Avoid unnecessary purchases for one-off occasions (e.g. Christmas or Easter).
  15. Give experience-based gifts such as show tickets, sports events, or concerts.
  16. Choose eco-friendly products by reading and understanding labels.
  17. Buy products with minimal or no packaging.
  18. Purchase regularly used household products in bulk.
  19. Reuse shopping bags when shopping.
  20. Use refillable products such as pasta, rice, coffee, and loose-leaf tea.
  21. Drink tap water from reusable bottles.
  22. Donate old books, toys, and games to charities, libraries, or schools.
  23. Reuse glass jars for storage or household purposes.
  24. Compost food scraps and garden waste.
  25. Repair small appliances instead of replacing them.
  26. Buy second-hand furniture, bikes, and electronics.
  27. Swap items with friends, neighbors, or community groups.
  28. Use cloth napkins and towels instead of disposable paper products.
  29. Repurpose old clothing into cleaning cloths or craft materials.
  30. Choose digital bills, tickets, and receipts whenever possible.
  31. Reuse envelopes, folders, and packaging materials.
  32. Return printer cartridges and electronics to recycling collection points.
  33. Choose products made from recycled materials.
  34. Use reusable coffee cups for takeaway drinks.
  35. Freeze leftovers to reduce food waste.
  36. Share rarely used items such as ladders or power tools.
  37. Turn old towels and blankets into pet bedding.
  38. Use beeswax wraps instead of plastic wrap or foil.
  39. Mend or upcycle old furniture instead of replacing it.
  40. Collect rainwater for garden use.

Get Started

As a start, actively look for reuse opportunities close to you, such as charity shops (see below), repair cafés, community swap events, libraries, and refill stores. Local schools, community centres, and online neighborhoods groups often accept donations or share items. Engaging locally reduces waste, supports your community, and helps valuable materials stay in use.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT an award-winning community recycler wishes to build on Ireland’s recycling success story and helped increase the 10 kg of waste electronic and electrical equipment recycled per person, per year. We are inviting resident associations and community groups including tidy towns to speak with us about arranging a FREE collection in your area over the coming months.

Our recycling service is provided FREE to resident associations and communities in South Dublin, Dublin City and Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown with surrounding areas in Meath, Wicklow and Kildare also serviced so please give us a call to learn more and arrange a residents collection for your area.

Please call us on 01 4578321 or email info@recycleit.ie.

Oxfam – Click to Learn More

Old Garden Tools – recycle safely!

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

Green fingers and tools!

Gardening activities offers lots of health benefits, both physically and mentally, especially during the summer months. It provides fresh produce, improves physical health, and reduces stress. Summer gardens also require specific maintenance, including proper watering, weeding, and deadheading, to keep plants thriving. 

Gardening can play a role in keeping you and your family fit and eating well across the seasons. Gardens can also be a safe place for insects, bees, birds and animals to live and thrive, spring, summer, autumn and winter.

Garden Tools
Garden Tools

Recycling is also good for our well-being and minimises the impacts on our health and our planet. The more you recycle as items comes to the end of there ‘useful life the better! Recycling helps protect the environment for future generations. Old garden electrical, electronic and metal equipment can be recycled safely and free so do it right!

Gardening is a great way to get physical activity and beautify your home and neighborhood.  Its also important to protect yourself and take proper precautions when you are outside with tools, chemicals and insects.  Maybe take a few minutes to read up on garden safety before starting!

Summer Park Dublin

Metal garden equipment or garden tools that use electricity through self-charging or via a plug or battery, can be reused by someone new or if damaged they can be recycled with ease. This includes everyday garden equipment which is old damaged or unused. You can easily recycle Hoes & Tillers, Shovels & Rakes Metal Hand Tools, Spades & Hand Trowels, Pruning Shears & Loppers, Lawn Mowers and Leaf Blowers with Recycle IT in Dublin.

The 20 most common garden tools are lists below

  • Hand trowel – Digging small holes and planting.
  • Pruning shears (secateurs) – Trimming plants and cutting stems.
  • Hand cultivator – Loosening soil and removing weeds.
  • Weeder – Removing weeds and roots.
  • Dibber – Making holes for seeds and seedlings.
  • Bulb planter – Planting bulbs at the correct depth.
  • Spade – Digging, edging, and cutting through roots.
  • Shovel – Moving soil, compost, and mulch.
  • Garden fork – Turning and loosening soil.
  • Wheelbarrow or garden cart – Moving heavy materials.
  • Garden hoe – Removing weeds and cultivating soil.
  • Loppers – Cutting thick branches.
  • Hedge shears – Trimming hedges and shrubs.
  • Pruning saw – Cutting larger branches.
  • Leaf rake – Collecting leaves and garden debris.
  • Garden hose – Watering plants and lawns.
  • Watering can – Gentle watering for pots and seedlings.
  • Lawn mower – Cutting grass.
  • String trimmer – Cutting grass in hard-to-reach areas.
  • Gardening gloves – Protecting hands while gardening.

Remember, recycling garden tools benefits the environment. Recycling power or manual tools makes it easier to preserve natural resources, as materials such as metal and plastic are repurposed instead of being thrown away. Recycling helps reduces the amount of waste that is sent to landfills, meaning less pollution from transport vehicles and fewer harmful chemicals being released into the atmosphere which has to be good for you and your garden.

Older Garden Equipment

Old Lawnmowers for Recycling

When you buy a new garden tools like an electric, rechargeable or petrol lawn mower you can recycle your old mower with Recycle IT. We will dispose of it in a legal and environmentally friendly way. You can also safely recycle chainsaws, garden shredders, water pumps, lawn trimmers, garden multi-tools, grass trimmers, hedge trimmers, leaf blowers, garden vacuums, pressure/power washers, string trimmers, rototillers, pole saws, household chippers, shredders and even old BBQs. If you are unsure if your item can be recycled safely just give us a call.

How to Recycle Garden Tools

Please do not dispose of electrical products used in the garden with your normal household waste bin or in a skip. Please use an electrical waste recycling centre like Recycle IT. Once the equipment was used in your home garden, school or community there is no charge for our recycling service. Petrol lawnmowers can be recycled alongside old garden metal at Recycle IT. Please make sure the lawnmower petrol tank is completely empty before collection or drop off.

Gardening Equipment

WEEE Symbols and Regulations

Remember all typle electrical, electronic, and battery-operated equipment including garden tools should display this symbol on the packaging or the product. The symbol indicates that the product should not be disposed of with normal household waste but taken to an authorised recycling centre for safe recycling.

Each year in Ireland we generate thousands of tones of electrical waste, those items that are discarded contain a variety of materials, including metal, glass, plastics, ceramics, and precious metals and because of this complex mix of materials without specialized waste processes can create several health risks.

Irish Waste Management Regulations 2014 (S.I. No. 149 of 2014) (the WEEE Regulations) are designed to promote the recovery of WEEE, and to facilitate the achievement of targets for the collection, treatment, recovery, and disposal of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) in an environmentally sound manner.

What Is WEEE Recycling?
Don’t Bin Electrical Equipment

Producers and retailers are responsible for the financing, treatment, recovery and disposal of WEEE. This means that customers (end users) buying or using household and home garden WEEE are entitled to drop off garden tools without charge at authorised recycling facilities.

You can book a cost effective collection here.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT offer recycling opportunities to home and business customers for all types of electronics equipment. AT Recycle IT, recycling is available using free, drop-off, free community collections or through a cost-effective personal or business collection. Our team will accept any old household or small office electrical items alongside all types of metal and electrical or rechargeable garden equipment.

Recycle IT as a social enterprise works in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office.

To learn more about recycling electrical equipment please call Recycle IT on 01 4578321, email us or visit www.recycleit.ie

Recycle IT –Sustainability Award Winner 2025

Buy Social with Pace Dublin

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

Buy Outdoor Planters, Tables, Benches & More

If you’re looking to buy wooden planters, garden tables, benches, or other quality wooden products as well as plants and flowers in Dublin, there’s one name you should know — Pace. But Pace is not just any business. It’s a not-for-profit social enterprise, and that makes your purchase more than just a simple buy. It’s a way to give back, support your community, and help create lasting change.

What is Pace?

Pace is a Dublin-based social enterprise that supports people who have experience with the criminal justice system. It helps them rebuild their lives, gain work skills, and reintegrate into society. Pace believes that everyone deserves a second chance. By offering real work, training, and support, Pace gives people the tools they need to move forward.

One of the ways they do this is through their woodwork and garden products workshop. That’s where the beautiful wooden planters, picnic tables, benches, and other outdoor items are made — by hand, with care, and for a great purpose.

What Can You Buy?

At Pace, you’ll find a range of high-quality, handcrafted wooden products perfect for your garden, patio, or public spaces. Some of their most popular items include:

  • Wooden Planters: Perfect for flowers, herbs, or even small trees. These planters are sturdy, well-made, and built to last through all seasons.
  • Picnic Tables: Ideal for family meals outside or community spaces. Made from strong timber, they’re great for schools, parks, or even your own backyard.
  • Garden Benches: Comfortable and stylish, these benches add charm and relaxation to any outdoor area.
  • Custom Furniture: Looking for something unique? Pace can often work with customers on custom orders too.

Each item is made using sustainable wood where possible and built to a high standard of quality. You’re not only getting something that looks good — it’s made to last.

Why Buy from a Social Enterprise?

When you buy from a regular business, the profits go to the owners or shareholders. When you buy from a social enterprise like Pace, the money goes straight back into the organisation. It supports training, jobs, and programs that help people make a fresh start.

By choosing to shop with Pace, you are:

  • Supporting rehabilitation and reintegration of people into the community.
  • Helping to reduce reoffending by giving people meaningful work.
  • Promoting sustainable, ethical shopping.
  • Backing a local Irish organisation with a big heart.

Perfect for Homes, Communities and Businesses

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to spruce up your garden, or a school or business wanting to improve your outdoor spaces, Pace can help. Many community centres, schools, housing groups, and councils across Dublin already use their products.

When you choose Pace, you’re not just getting a product — you’re becoming part of something bigger. It’s a simple action that has a powerful impact.

How to Buy

You can browse Pace’s woodwork range by visiting their workshop or contacting them directly through their website or phone. The team are happy to answer questions, talk about custom options, and help you find the right product for your needs. Visit the website shopatpace.ie, call phone, 0874061989 or email socialenterprise@paceorganisation.ie

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT, is an award-winning social enterprise offering electrical, electronic and metal recycling services through drop off and collection. Recycling services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland and South Dublin County Council.

Recycle IT is supported by Pobal and Dormant Accounts and authorised by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across the east midlands waste region.

Our goal is to create training and employment opportunities through the provision of waste management services. Surplus earned income is reinvested in operational, and employment-related costs.

For more information on Recycle IT please call 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit our website www.recycleit.ie

Ireland’s Green Tech Revolution: Solar Panels and Vapes

On By JMCEIn Climate change, Collections, Computer Recycling, Dublin, Electronic and Electrical Recycling, News, Social Enterprise, sustainability, We Recycle ITLeave a comment

Ireland Sees Surge in Electrical Device Sales

Ireland has experienced a notable uptick in the sale of electrical goods, with devices like vapes and solar panels particularly leading the surge. This trend signals a growing appetite among consumers for both convenience gadgets and sustainable technologies.

Photo by Kelly on Pexels.com

Vapes and solar panels have driven a 75 per cent increase in electrical device sales over the last five years and a total of 93 million household electronic items were purchased in 2024 – almost three times the volume sold in 2006 according to Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Ireland, the country’s biggest e-waste recycling scheme.

“Each one of those 93 million devices contains valuable materials like aluminium, copper, lithium, cobalt,” said WEEE Ireland chief executive Leo Donovan. Based on the that fact these items should all be recycled safely.

Electric & Green Tech Boom

Sales of solar panels have jumped significantly, reflecting strong interest in home energy solutions—especially across suburban and rural areas. The popularity of smart home accessories, electric vehicle chargers, and battery storage systems is reinforcing Ireland’s move towards greener lifestyles. For example over 2.5 million solar panels have entered the market in the last five years, but with a life of 15 to 20 years, they won’t reach recycling centres for at least another decade.

Disposable Vapes: Convenience at a Cost

Disposable vapes have also seen sharp sales growth, sparking concern among public health and environmental experts. Containing lithium batteries, plastics, and chemical liquids, they pose serious waste challenges if not processed correctly .

Photo by Markus Winkler on Pexels.com

Action Needed Now:

Research from WEEE Ireland also shows the proportion of households hoarding unused devices rose from 22 per cent in 2023 to 29 per cent in 2025, highlighting a massive untapped opportunity for reuse and repair. “We need to move beyond recycling alone. Extending the life of products through repair and reuse must become the norm,” Mr. Donovan said.

The message is simple – take your old gadgets—especially batteries and plastics—to your nearest WEEE or e-waste recycling drop-off in Dublin. It’s quick, local, and significantly reduces pollution.

Recycle IT is a community-based social enterprise in Dublin that helps households, charities, community groups, schools, and businesses safely recycle thousand’s of electrical and electronic items (e-waste) yearly. Here’s how we can help you:

Recycle IT – Electrical Recycling

Services Recycle IT Offers:

Free Household Collection: Our team offer free door-to-door residents association collection of unwanted electrical items like toasters, kettles, laptops, TVs, and more in many Dublin areas.

Business & Organisations Recycling: Schools, offices, and community groups can book collection services for bulk electrical items—ensuring safe and secure disposal.

Drop-Off Recycling: You can drop off items at their facility in Clondalkin if preferred.

Data Destruction: Secure disposal of hard drives and other data-storing devices for privacy protection.

Community Awareness: We promote awareness of e-waste and provide tips on reducing, reusing, and recycling electronic goods.

Environmentally Friendly Practices: Recycle IT recycling for reuse as much as possible helping reduce landfill waste and conserve resources.

Let’s turn this sales surge into a sustainability win for Dublin and beyond!

Recycle IT – Mixed Electrical Equipment

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning not for profit social enterprise providing a collection and drop off service for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). During 2018 Recycle IT offer to drop off and collection services to thousands of homes, and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of computers, cables, monitors, microwaves, cookers, dryers and TVs and much more.

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT are supported by Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow.

Recycle IT – Approved and Verified

38 Winter Reuse and Recyclng Tips ☃️❄️

On By JMCEIn Electronic and Electrical RecyclingLeave a comment

Pre Festive / Winter Reuse and Recycling Tips

Here are 38 Tips for reusing, reducing waste, and safely recycling in winter, both at work and at home. These ideas can help you minimize waste, make the most of what you have, and keep the environment clean during the colder months while also saving you some money, a scare resource all year round.

Some recycling and reuse tips can be used immediately and others before, during and after Christmas 2024.   For some people recycling items might work better than reuse so you make the call! Have a look at the charity shop infographic below.

Charity Shop – Guide to Recycling

38 Winter Tips

1. Repurpose Gift Wrap and Packaging Materials. Save gift wrap, bows, boxes, bags and packing materials to reuse for future gifts or shipping needs.

2. Use Leftover Wrapping Paper for Crafts. Shred or cut leftover paper into strips for holiday crafts, confetti, or cushion material for packaging boxes or envelopes.

3. Upcycle Old Sweaters. Transform old sweaters into mittens, scarves, or cozy throw pillows instead of discarding them.

4. Create Homemade Fire Starters. Use cardboard tubes, dryer lint, and melted candle stubs to make fire starters for winter bonfires or fireplaces.

5. Repurpose Glass Jars and Bottles. Use empty glass jars for storing small items, organizing craft supplies, or creating winter candle holders.

Bottles and Jars

6. Recycle Christmas Trees Properly. Check for local tree recycling programs or compost your tree if possible.

7. Make Eco-Friendly De-Icers. Use sand or kitty litter instead of salt to prevent icy walkways while reducing environmental impact.

8. Compost Holiday Food Scraps. Compost vegetable peels, coffee grounds, and other compostable scraps from holiday meals.

9. Use Reusable Shopping Bags and Containers. Avoid single-use bags by using cloth bags and containers for holiday shopping and gift giving.

10. Reuse Shipping Boxes. Keep sturdy boxes from holiday packages for future storage or shipping needs.

11. Repurpose Old Christmas Cards. Turn last year’s festive cards into gift tags, bookmarks, or festive decorations.

Cards for Reuse

12. Donate or Sell Old Winter Clothing. Give coats, scarves, and winter accessories you no longer use to local shelters or thrift stores.

13. Repair or Resole Winter Boots. Extend the life of winter footwear by repairing rather than discarding them.

14. Store Seasonal Decorations Responsibly. Reuse bins, containers, and bags you already own to safely store holiday decorations for next year.

15. Use LED Holiday Lights. Switch to LED lights for holiday decorating; they use less energy and last longer.

16. Use Timers for Holiday Lights. Set timers to minimize energy use and prolong the life of your holiday lights.

17. Upcycle Tin Cans. Decorate clean tin cans as rustic candle holders or plant pots.

18. Make Natural Air Fresheners. Simmer orange peels, cinnamon sticks, and cloves to create a natural winter scent instead of using air fresheners.

19. Recycle Old Electronics Safely. Recycle or donate old electronics at certified e-waste recycling centres.

20. Use a Programmable Thermostat. Use a programmable thermostat to lower energy use by automatically adjusting heat based on when you’re home.

21. Insulate Windows with Reusable Kits. Simple to use, window Insulation Kits can help to reduce heat loss and save energy.

Insulated Window

22. Reuse Paper Bags as Gift Wrap. Decorate paper bags to use as gift wrap or for simple, rustic winter decor.

23. Make DIY Reusable Gift Wraps. Use fabric scraps, scarves, or tea towels as eco-friendly, reusable gift wrap alternatives.

24. Donate Extra Blankets. Donate old blankets to animal shelters or homeless shelters to keep others warm in winter.

25. Recycle Paper and Cardboard Properly. Flatten and recycle any cardboard or paper boxes that can’t be reused.

26. Use Egg Cartons for Crafting. Egg cartons can make great storage containers for holiday ornaments or crafting supplies.

27. Create a ‘Recycle Station’ at Work. Designate a convenient area for recycling paper, plastic, and other materials in your workplace.

28. Bring a Reusable Mug for Winter Drinks. Use a thermos or reusable cup for hot drinks instead of single-use coffee cups.

Reuse Cup

29. Make Homemade Ice Packs. Use old cloths or bags filled with frozen rice or beans to create reusable ice packs.

30. Repurpose Old Books. Use damaged or outdated books for DIY projects like wreaths, gift tags, or ornaments.

31. Switch to Refillable Pens. Encourage use of refillable pens and pencils to reduce plastic waste at work and home.

32. Recycle Batteries Responsibly. Collect and recycle dead batteries at designated recycling locations instead of tossing them in the trash.

33. Reuse Leftover Candle Wax. Melt down leftover wax to make new candles or use them as fire starters.

34. Use Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products. Choose biodegradable, non-toxic cleaning products for post-holiday clean-ups.

35. Reduce Unnecessary Heating. Layer up in cozy clothing rather than increasing the thermostat too often.

36. Make a Reusable Advent Calendar. Create a fabric or paper advent calendar that can be reused every winter.

37. Reuse Envelopes and Paper. Save envelopes and unused paper for notetaking or as scratch paper at work.

38. Plan Waste-Free Winter Meals. Plan meals to reduce food waste by using leftover ingredients in creative recipes.

EPA Reuse and Recycling Rates

Why Tips are Important

Reuse and recycling tips are important because they help reduce waste, save natural resources, and protect the environment. By reusing items and recycling properly, we lower the demand for new products, conserve energy, and minimize pollution. Small actions—like repurposing materials or recycling paper and plastic—make a big difference. These habits help create a cleaner planet and a more sustainable future for everyone.

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning not for profit social enterprise providing a collection and drop off service for all types of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). During 2023 Recycle IT offered drop off and collection services to over ten of thousands of homes, schools, charities and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of electricals which includes thousands of computers, cables, monitors, microwaves and TV’s.

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT are supported by Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Leinster.

Recycle IT