Earthworks System collects and recycles used disposable PVC gift cards. What’s more, they recycle the cards into sheets which can be used to manufacture new gift cards. It’s true recycling, rather than downcycling. While I’m not a fan of PVC, I do appreciate that Earthworks System is helping to curb the need for new PVC to be produced.

Both individuals and businesses can send in used gift cards for recycling. While the company would prefer to receive the cards in large batches (why not set up a collection at your office or school?) they will also accept cards from individuals. Mail them to:

Earthworks c/o Halprin Ind.
25840 Miles Rd.
Bedford, Oh 44146

This is a great way to keep those plastic gift cards you received for the holidays or your birthday out of landfills. Since the cards are made of PVC, your community recycling program probably will not accept them.

They weigh about 0.2 oz each, so you can send 4-5 at once and just use 1 stamp (currently $0.44) or be even greener and send 10 for $0.61! (You could always upcycle them (see Treehugger for info), but that's way too much work for me.)