Archive for the ‘Environment’ Category
Thursday, February 16th, 2012
One of the most potent causes of global warming and the current decline of the environment is deforestation. Deforestation occurs when trees are chopped down for all different purposes irresponsibly, and entire forests and ecosystems are wiped out. Aside for displacing the many creatures that live in these ecosystems, fewer trees means less oxygen, more carbon dioxide, and more global warming. The Arbor Day Foundation is trying to combat deforestation by inspiring people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees, because every tree makes a difference.
The Arbor Day Foundation is currently running a variety of programs to help promote trees. Tree City USA is sponsored in cooperation with the USDA Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters. The program provides, direction, technical assistance, and national attention for urban and community forestation programs. The Arbor Day Foundation is also reaching out to public and private utilities that help save trees with Tree Line USA. In association with the National Association of State Foresters, the program promotes the dual goals of safe, reliable electric service and abundant, healthy trees across utility service areas.
Nature Explore is another program run by the Arbor Day Foundation that promotes the relationship between children and their environment. It provides educators, designers, and families with comprehensive resources to connect children with the natural world on a daily basis. The program makes use of research done by the Dimensions Foundation in providing outdoor classroom design principles and resources.
The Arbor Day Foundation has also expanded its reach, and is working to educate people about rainforests and help save them with Rain Forest Rescue. Another program of significance is Tree Campus USA, recognizing campuses that effectively manage their campus trees, and work with their community and student body to foster healthy, urban forests.
The Arbor Day Foundation is working to conserve the environment by saving trees, while Rubberecycle works on the rubber and recycling perspective. With each purchase of Rubberecycle mulch, tons and tons of rubber are recycled, thereby helping our environment. Join Rubberecycle on their quest to save the planet, one bag of mulch at a time.
Tags: Environment, recycle, recycled rubber mulch, rubber mulch
Posted in Arbor Day, Environment, Mulch, Rubber, rubber mulch, Rubberecycle, Rubberecycle Manufacturer, tire mulch | Comments Off
Saturday, February 11th, 2012
This week we had a flat tire. A pretty routine occurrence. When we went to purchase a new tire, however, a part of the fees was a ‘disposal’ fee. Yes, a two dollar fee to throw the tire away. I soon learned that this fee is used to help fund state run tire recycling programs that keep used tires out of landfills. Saving our planet is everybody’s responsibility. Mechanics, as direct dealers of old and used tires, have an obligation to ensure that the tires end up in the right place – in the hands of rubber mulch manufacturers.
Rubber mulch is manufactured by shredding old tires into bits, and then using powerful magnets to extract any scrap metal that is left. After production, the result is sterile, clean tire chips that can be used for a multitude of purposes. Rubberecycle does all they can to ensure that the process is entirely green, from trying to locate their plant close to a location of used tires, to installing solar panels that power their machinery. With an entirely green way to use old tires it is astounding that many tires are left to rot, when they can be put to good use.
When purchasing a new tire, the mechanic may not offer the option of having the tire recycled. Ask your mechanic if they participate in such a program, and if not, where you can recycle your tire. Most major tire manufacturing companies such as Firestone and Goodyear have tire recycling bins outside of their stores. Many local mechanics may also offer to take the tire, free of charge. Just be sure that it will be going to a tire recycling facility.
Mechanics, as dealers of tires, should be informing the consumer of ways in which they can help the environment by recycling tires. If they don’t however, an educated consumer should make sure that their tire is used for a good purpose; rubber mulch flooring.
Tags: recycle tires, recycled rubber mulch, rubber mulch
Posted in Environment, Mulch, Rubber, rubber mulch, Rubberecycle, tire mulch | No Comments »
Wednesday, February 1st, 2012
Although dedicated to a good cause, the green industry has been tarnished by companies that tout green products that aren’t really green at all. When thousands of gallons of fuel is consumed on transport, and deforestation, pollution, and other side effects occur as the result of the manufacture of a product, it’s just not that eco-conscious anymore. Enter Rubberecycle, makers of Playsafer rubber mulch.
Rubberecycle is constantly looking for innovative ways to improve their products, and they have now raised the bar by installing energy-efficient solar panels in their plant. The panels cover 200,000 square feet of the roof, with 1.1 megawatts of power capability, and cost an estimated $3,800,000. While this was an extremely expensive proposition, Rubberecycle found it necessary in an effort to reduce the huge amounts of energy needed to power their machinery. With this addition, Rubberecyce can truly say that their rubber mulch is 100% eco-friendly. The news of Rubberecycle’s new solar panels is groundbreaking, as major news agencies report it as the latest way to manufacture eco-friendly products.
Rubberecycle’s Playsafer playground mulch has also been endorsed by Michelle Obama, as it is the flooring that is used in the White House playground. She has stamped it with her seal of approval based on its eco-friendly nature, safety for children, and great quality.
To celebrate their new solar panels and allow more consumers to go green, Rubberecycle is now offering the promotional code ‘Rubberecycle Playsafer’ for an added 10% off any purchase of Playsafer mulch. Fans that Like Rubberecycle on Facebook will also be entered for a chance to win 20 pounds of Playsafer mulch. Just Like it and email your personal information, including your Facebook username, to info@rubberecycle.com.
Smart consumers understand that using Playsafer mulch keeps kids safe today, and ensures that they will enjoy a clean future. Going green today is what will keep the world going for our children’s tomorrow.
Tags: green rubber mulch, Playsafer mulch, Rubberecycle mulch, solar panels
Posted in Environment, Mulch, playground flooring, Playground safety, playground surface, playground surfacing, Playsafer mulch, Rubber, rubber mulch, Rubberecycle, Rubberecycle Manufacturer | No Comments »
Friday, January 20th, 2012
As the green product season heats up and manufacturers unveil their revolutionary eco-friendly goods, Rubberecycle is looking forward to being a significant presence in many prominent trade shows. Their unique rubber mulch is well renowned for its many qualities, and Rubberecycle products always generate buzz at the shows. They are right now in the midst of the trade show season with a packed schedule, in which they try to accommodate consumers all over the U.S. by helping them put the green into their lifestyles.
The first show to kick off the season was arranged by the NRPA, or National Parks and Recreation Association. The 2011 Congress and Exhibition in Atlanta, Georgia brought together experts in the parks and recreations field from across America. They did their best to show how we can have safer, greener parks with a variety of products and techniques. Rubberecycle rubber mulch, as the number one rated playground surface in America, was a topic of much discussion. It is a well known fact that the White House playground is currently floored with rubber mulch, and many cities, schools, and private homeowners are looking to follow suit.
In mid-January, MANTS, otherwise known as the Mid-Atlantic Nursery Trade Show, gave green activists the opportunity to see the latest and greatest in green products. Hosted in Baltimore, the show was flooded with greenery and green activists, many of whom were eager to see for themselves how rubber mulch is both green and great for landscaping.
Next week brings with it CENTS, only the third green trade show of its kind. Hosted by the Ohio Nursery and Landscape Association, the show is a green lover’s haven. It features all the latest gizmos, gadgets, and information to do with landscaping and going green. As an industry leader, Rubberecycle will no doubt be a key exhibitor.
Also to look forward to in February is the New England Grows show, a leading horticulture trade show and green industry seminar. It is important to take note that no more is rubber mulch a little know, controversial substance in the world of landscaping. It has taken the industry by storm, and is a central exhibit at many trade shows.
With the trade show season heating up, Rubberecycle is anticipating the opportunity to help consumers recognize the many benefits of rubber mulch for themselves.
Tags: green rubber mulch, landscape rubber mulch, Rubberecycle, rubberecycle rubber mulch
Posted in commercial playgrounds, Environment, Gardening, landscape, Mulch, Parks, playground surfacing, Rubber, rubber mulch, Rubberecycle | No Comments »
Tuesday, January 3rd, 2012
Every year after Christmas, the streets are lined with orphaned Christmas trees awaiting their fate as the garbage trucks slowly make their rounds. In the past few years, New York City has been urging people to recycle their trees with Mulchfests. What this entails is that for two days after Christmas the city sets up centers in parks around New York and the five boroughs where people can bring their trees to be shredded into wood chips for free. Tree owners have the option of taking the wood chips home with them in a biodegradable bag provided by the city, or leaving them for the city’s use.
This year the Mulchfest will take place on January 7 and 8 in 70 sites around the city. 35 of the sites will be chipping sites, where the wood is shredded on the spot, and the other 35 will be drop-off sites, from where the city will collect the trees to be recycled. Last year, close to 17,000 Christmas trees were recycled, and New York officials hope to beat that number this year.
The Mulchfest is just one of the ways that the U.S. federal and state governments are trying to bring awareness to the importance of recycling and reusing. While wood chips have many practical uses, in some ways rubber mulch trumps wood. Rubber chips are also recycled, made from old tires. They are more durable than wood, lasting many years, and are great for use in playgrounds, horse arenas, and gardens.
Those who take part in the Mulchfest are trying to do their part to help clean up our planet. In the same vein, it is worthwhile to look into the many uses of rubber mulch, and continue the chain of recycling.
Tags: Mulchfest, recycled tires, rubber mulch
Posted in Environment, landscape, Mulch, Parks, playground flooring, Rubber, rubber mulch, Rubberecycle, tire mulch | No Comments »
Thursday, December 1st, 2011
Tires are big, bulky objects with nowhere to go once they are past their prime. Slowly, people are becoming aware of their usefulness in the form of recycled rubber mulch, but there is still much to be done to achieve the recycling of the majority of tires. Andrew Horsman, executive director of Ontario Tire Stewardship, is giving his all to get more tires recycled.
OTS, a non profit organization, works with nine companies that manufacture recycled rubber products, such as rubber mulch flooring for playgrounds and landscaping. Now he is working to bring awareness to the construction industry. Products that can be made from rubber tires include roof shingles, mouse pads, soaker hoses, and more. Last summer, OTS reported the 25th million tire recycled in Ontario.
Horsman says that in the construction industry tires can be used more than once because they are retreaded. However, awareness has been slower because unlike regular consumers who get their tires changed at Wal-Mart, many of the construction companies work with other companies who take care of all their tire and mechanical needs.
While Horsman is doing his best to make a change for the better in Canada, the change must spread throughout the U.S., too. Thousands of tires that have nowhere to go could be put to good use by recycling them and using them in new and improved products.
It’s the responsibility of mechanics and retailers who deal with tires worldwide to put these changes into effect. Major retailers such as Costco, Wal-Mart, AutoZone, and other, have the power to recycle thousands of tires, helping to manufacture safe and eco-friendly rubber mulch. It takes just a little bit of effort to cause everlasting change.
Tags: eco-friendly mulch, recycle rubber tires, recycled rubber mulch
Posted in Environment, Mulch, Rubber, rubber mulch, Rubberecycle, Rubberecycle Manufacturer, tire mulch | No Comments »
Thursday, November 10th, 2011
As discussed in the previous post, grass takes a huge toll on the environment, as well as your wallet. Groundcover, rubber mulch, and ornamental grasses were discussed as good alternatives to natural grass. There are a few more options that will also take the place of grass at a lower cost financially, and to the planet.
Clover is a leafy plant that comes in various forms. It is used to condition soil and to choke out weeds. It is a good alternative to grass because it needs little watering or mowing, and no fertilizer. It also stays green throughout the summer, and costs little to purchase. The plant only grows to about four to eight inches high. It should not, however, be used in play areas or areas of constant use.
Flower and shrub beds are an excellent option for areas of low usage, and are great for sloping, hard to mow areas. Shade-loving flowers can be planted beneath trees or overhangs, areas where grass may have a hard time growing. They will also add to the aesthetic appeal. When planting flower beds, it is important to mulch around the plants. The mulch will keep the soil moist, and protect it from weeds. You can choose from a variety of options, including rubber mulch for landscaping, leaf mold, sawdust, and other options. Flower and shrub beds should be planted raised, and with a small variety of flowers.
There are many great alternatives to grass in a garden or lawn that will retain a pretty effect, with benefits to all involved parties. The specifics will be individualized to the garden in question, but in almost any area, some of the grass can be eliminated with creative alternatives.
Tags: garden mulch, landscape mulch, rubber mulch
Posted in Environment, Gardening, Garening, landscape, Mulch, Rubber, rubber mulch, Rubberecycle | No Comments »
Tuesday, November 1st, 2011
Large, beautiful lawns of grass bring beauty to any area, but they can cost the environment greatly, aside for monetary expenses. Lots of fuel must be used for lawn mowers, lawns consume lots of water, and there are toxic emissions, among other concerns. There are many excellent alternatives to grass that will provide a beautiful garden or lawn without using natural grass.
Groundcovers are plants which spread across the soil, but do not grow high. They can be used as a form of mulch, and they are usually chosen for texture, density, and how well they prevent weeds. Unlike grass, these plants require little or no maintenance. Common forms of groundcover are flowers such as perennials and evergreens, and edible forms, such as strawberries.
Rubber mulch is excellent for permanent walkways, pathways, and driveways. It is also used around plants. Landscape mulch is aesthetically pleasing to the eye, and is commonly used in backyards and playgrounds. Rubber mulch comes in numerous colors to fit and enhance any landscaping design. Because of its synthetic nature, the rubber surfacing also needs little or no maintenance, resulting in no cost to the environment. In fact, it is made out of recycled tires, benefitting the environment.
Ornamental grass comes in many forms, and is synthetically produced. The grass is drought resistant, and requires little maintenance, utilizing a lot less fertilizer and water. Ornamental grass looks exactly like naturally grown grass, with less cost to the environment.
Rubber mulch is one of many excellent alternatives that can keep lawns beautiful, easily maintainable, and eco friendly.
Tags: fake grass, Gardening, landscape mulch, rubber mulch
Posted in Environment, Gardening, Garening, landscape, Mulch, Playsafer mulch, Rubber, rubber mulch, Rubberecycle, Rubberecycle Manufacturer, tire mulch | No Comments »
Monday, September 19th, 2011
Autumn is one of the few seasons when injuries in children are at a lower rate. There is no ice for kids to slip on, and no risk of dehydration, drowning, heatstroke, and sunburns. With the weather crisp and cool, many a child revels in jumping in freshly raked piles of leaves and feeling the wind in their hair as they speed down the street on bikes. With other preoccupations aside, it’s the perfect time to take stock of your backyard playground and ensure that it is as safe as can be.
The first thing to consider is playground flooring. The White House has led by example in showing that the most eco friendly flooring option that is also at the top in playground safety is rubber mulch. Rubber mulch playground floors come in many different forms and colors. In fact, the White House playground boasts green Playsafer rubber mulch. With an extra measure of shock absorbency, rubber chips help prevent injuries in children at play.
Do some research to determine whether you require rubber wear mats, rubber mulch bonding, or rubber mulch chips. Each has benefits for specific situations. Rubber mulch will offer your playground a cheerful, fresh look, while keeping your children safe.
The next thing to look at is the age of the playground equipment. Rust can be a cause on infection. Rusty parts should be oiled and cleaned. If the rust persists, it’s time to say good bye. Old toys can also be weak and dangerous to play on. Check that screws are tight, and that the playground equipment easily holds your full weight before allowing your child to play on it.
Although you may not have noticed it, children grow, and their needs change as they develop. You may want to consider updating your playground toys with more age appropriate apparatus in order to further enhance your child’s development. As long as it’s in good condition, you can easily sell your old playground equipment on Craigslist, Ebay, etc.
Playground equipment that has been neglected and broken with time must be gotten rid of, as it poses a safety hazard. You never know when your child may decide to reminisce about his younger years in an old playground toy. This is asking for trouble.
Tags: Playground flooring, playground safety, rubber mulch flooring
Posted in commercial playgrounds, Environment, Mulch, Parks, playground flooring, Playground safety, playground surface, playground surfacing, Playsafer mulch, Rubber, rubber mulch, Rubberecycle | No Comments »
Thursday, August 25th, 2011
Playgrounds are meant for children to play in and enjoy, but that doesn’t mean that they have to be eyesores. There are companies devoted to designing the most aesthetically pleasing playgrounds for the area, as well as providing the best that playground equipment has to offer.
The first step for any playground is the purchase of rubber mulch. Rather than the wood chips or blacktop of old, rubber mulch is the playground flooring of the future. Constructed from recycled rubber, the chips are made to resemble wood, with an extra shock absorbing quality that makes them the best option for playground safety. Unlike wood, rubber mulch also does not freeze in the winter, maintaining a cushiony softness that is the perfect texture for children’s antics.
From a design perspective, the playground flooring comes in a variety of colors, including green, orange, rust, and many more. Rubber mulch is also odor free, and is non-staining and non-abrasive. The color does not fade over time, maintaining a healthy, vibrant look. It is important to coordinate the color of the rubber mulch with the surrounding fence of the play area, if there is one, and its relation to the rest of the playground gear. Depending on the area, it may be a good idea to cordon off one section of the playground with rubber mulch, and landscape the rest with grass, or vice versa.
Playground equipment is constantly being improved, with more creative ways for children to play, and innovative designs that keep the equipment pleasing to the eye. The options are endless, with jungle gyms in futuristic designs and color codes to match any design specifications. There are playground sets that also come with thematic elements, boasting a wood look, futuristic appeal, and much more. It is important to take into account the wishes of the children who will actually use the playground in question.
If this is an option, it is always nice to design the playground in tandem with the surroundings, taking into account the landscaping. Bushes and natural hedges are a classic way of encircling the play area, with rubber mulch surrounding the center jungle gym.
The options when designing a playground are endless, and as a considerable investment, it’s worth taking the time to do thorough research. Rubber mulch is a staple in any playground, and then the rest will follow.
Tags: Gardening, landscape, playground safety, rubber mulch
Posted in commercial playgrounds, Environment, Gardening, landscape, Mulch, Parks, playground flooring, Playground safety, playground surface, Playsafer mulch, rubber mulch, Rubberecycle, tire mulch | No Comments »
