Maya Ellison
Plastic glitter is a microplastic that can enter waterways and the food chain, harming wildlife and humans. Given its environmental impact, it is important to dispose of plastic glitter responsibly. While some advocate for a ban on glitter, there are ways to dispose of it without contributing to plastic pollution. One way is to repurpose it into permanent projects and DIYs, such as working it into clay or sending it to companies that transform it into jewellery. Another option is to place it in a sealed container before throwing it away to prevent it from contaminating the environment. However, this method still contributes to landfill. To reduce the demand for plastic glitter, individuals can also choose to stop buying it and switch to eco-friendly alternatives.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ways to dispose of plastic glitter | Repurpose it into permanent projects and DIYs, donate it to organizations that can use it, place it into a sealable jar or container and throw it in the landfill, work it into clay, send it to companies that transform it into something beautiful and reusable |
| Why plastic glitter is bad for the environment | It is made up of tiny pieces of plastic that can enter the ecosystem, pollute habitats, harm wildlife and humans, and are almost impossible to remove/clean up entirely once they enter the environment |
| How to prevent waste | Stop buying plastic glitter, switch to eco-friendly alternatives, prevent plastic glitter from going down the drain or into the trash |
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What You'll Learn
Repurpose plastic glitter into permanent projects and DIYs
Plastic glitter is bad for the environment, so it's important to dispose of it properly. The best way to do this is to repurpose it into permanent projects and DIYs, which will prevent it from becoming glitter pollution. Here are some ideas for how to repurpose your plastic glitter:
Clay Creations
Polymer clay is a great way to permanently dispose of plastic glitter. Simply combine the glitter with the clay and follow the baking instructions on the packet. You can use cookie cutters to create shapes like bowls or pendants, and a metal skewer to create holes before baking. You can even add glitter to clay figurines or hanging ornaments. This is a perfect way to give new life to old glittery makeup too!
Resin Crafts
Resin is another ideal way to capture glitter forever. You can find tutorials online for using resin with glitter to create everything from glitter cacti to canvas art.
Glitter Glue Crafts
Glitter glue pens are a mess-free alternative to loose glitter, and they're perfect for arts and crafts projects. You can use them to decorate pencil cases, tote bags, or even create bedroom door signs for kids. Glitter glue can also be used to add some sparkle to paper projects or to attach plastic gems for a crown fit for royalty!
Glittering Smooth Surfaces
With the right technique, you can apply glitter to smooth, glossy surfaces like plastic. Clean the item with soap and water, then use painter's tape to mask off areas you don't want glittered. Apply glue or acrylic craft paint, then shake on the glitter. Wait 1-2 hours before adding a second coat if needed. This method can be used to glitter anything from wooden boxes to glass mason jars!
Remember, the key is to avoid glitter ending up in landfills or waterways. By repurposing your plastic glitter into permanent projects, you can help reduce glitter pollution and keep those sparkles contained!
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Send plastic glitter to organisations that can upcycle it
If you have plastic glitter that you want to dispose of, it is recommended to first stop buying it and opt for an eco-friendly version for future crafts. While plastic glitter is bad for the environment, there are ways to repurpose it into permanent projects and DIYs, giving it zero chance to spread and become glitter pollution. For example, you can work glitter into clay by following the instructions on the packet for baking times. You can also use it to decorate candle holders, photo frames, and other decorative objects.
If you absolutely must dispose of the glitter, placing it into a sealable jar or container and throwing it in the landfill is an option. However, this will still contribute to landfill, and the container may be crushed or broken during its transition, exposing the glitter.
Another option is to send your plastic glitter to organisations that can upcycle it. Some companies, such as Today Glitter, offer biodegradable glitter made from plant cellulose or eucalyptus trees. These companies are taking steps towards providing eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastic-based glitter and tackling the issue of microplastic pollution. By sending your plastic glitter to such companies, you can ensure that it is properly upcycled and does not end up in the environment.
Additionally, local artists and eco-friendly organisations may be able to deal with the glitter properly. You can also consider giving your glitter to organisations or individuals who will use it, such as local schools, summer camps, or resin artists. This way, you can prevent the glitter from being thrown away and reduce the demand for new bottles of glitter.
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Store plastic glitter in a sealable container before disposal
If you have plastic glitter that you want to dispose of, it is important to do so responsibly. Plastic glitter is a microplastic, which means that it does not naturally biodegrade and can cause serious harm to the environment and wildlife if it enters the ecosystem.
One way to dispose of plastic glitter is to store it in a sealable container before throwing it away. This helps prevent the glitter from contaminating the environment or leeching into waterways, which are common issues with glitter due to its small size. To do this, find a sealable jar or container and place the glitter inside. Make sure the container is durable and will not easily break or crush, as this could expose the glitter. You can also try to bind the glitter together before placing it in the container to prevent it from spreading.
However, it is important to note that this method is not ideal as the glitter will still end up in a landfill, and the container will contribute to the waste. Additionally, there is a risk that the container may deteriorate over time, releasing the glitter. As such, it is recommended to only use this method if you absolutely must dispose of the glitter and have no other options.
Before considering disposal, there are several other responsible ways to manage plastic glitter. One option is to repurpose the glitter into permanent projects and DIYs, such as working it into clay to create figurines, pendants, ornaments, or bowls. You can also donate your glitter to organizations or individuals who can use it mindfully, such as local artists or eco-friendly initiatives. Additionally, you can stop buying plastic glitter and switch to eco-friendly alternatives to reduce the demand for plastic glitter and minimize its environmental impact.
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Give plastic glitter to artists and organisations that can use it mindfully
Plastic glitter is harmful to the environment, and one should ideally stop buying it. However, if you have plastic glitter that you want to dispose of responsibly, you can give it to artists and organisations that can use it mindfully.
Artists like Ann Veronica Janssens, Ebony G. Patterson, Chitra Ganesh, and Martin have used glitter in their artworks. Janssens has used glitter to experiment with its lightness and brilliance, while Patterson has used glitter to accentuate her work and draw attention to it. Ganesh has used glitter for costumes and celebrations, and Martin considers glitter as another kind of paint. You can reach out to such artists or their galleries to see if they would be interested in using your plastic glitter.
You can also donate your glitter to organisations that are already buying glitter. This way, you can ensure that your glitter is being used instead of ending up in a landfill. Local schools, summer camps, and resin artists may appreciate your donation.
Additionally, you can repurpose your plastic glitter into permanent projects and DIYs, such as working it into clay to make figurines, pendants, hanging ornaments, or bowls. This ensures that the glitter has zero chances to spread and become glitter pollution.
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Stop buying plastic glitter
Plastic glitter is a microplastic that can quickly enter our water supply and food chain. These microplastics are almost impossible to remove/clean up entirely once they enter the environment. They can be eaten by small animals and find their way into our ecosystem, polluting habitats and harming wildlife.
The best way to dispose of plastic glitter is to repurpose it into permanent projects and DIYs, giving it zero chance to spread and become glitter pollution. For example, you can work glitter into clay to make figurines, pendants, hanging ornaments, bowls, or a glittery ring dish. You can also send your plastic glitter to companies like Luminosity Glitter, which will transform it into something beautiful and reusable.
However, the most effective way to reduce the environmental impact of plastic glitter is to stop buying it. When people stop buying plastic glitter, companies will stop making it. Instead, opt for an eco-friendly version for future crafts. Look for glitter that has passed independent certification that it breaks down quickly in a natural, freshwater environment. By refusing to buy or use plastic glitter, you are helping to reduce microplastic pollution and sending a clear message to glitter manufacturers that we expect better for the environment.
If you must dispose of plastic glitter, placing it into a sealable jar or container and throwing it in the landfill is the best option to prevent it from contaminating the environment or leeching into waterways. However, keep in mind that the container may be crushed or broken during its transition to the landfill, exposing the glitter. Alternatively, you can donate your glitter to organizations or local artists that can use it mindfully.
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Frequently asked questions
If you absolutely must dispose of plastic glitter, the best way is to place it in a sealable jar or container and throw it in the bin. This will help prevent the glitter from contaminating the environment or leeching into waterways. However, it will still contribute to landfill.
Yes, you can repurpose the glitter by working it into clay or using it for permanent projects and DIYs, giving it zero chance to become glitter pollution. You can also send your plastic glitter to companies like Luminosity Glitter, which will transform it into something beautiful and reusable.
You can stop buying plastic glitter and switch to eco-friendly alternatives. You can also donate your plastic glitter to organisations that can use it mindfully instead of throwing it away.
