The idea behind what upcycling start-up TerraCycle does is so simple, it’s genius. Through collection brigades, the company collects very specific non-recyclable trash items that would have gone into a landfill and turns them into new products.  Things like Skittles bags, Capri Sun pouches and Cliff Bar wrappers become folder, lunch boxes, note books and even gift bows.  They have a full line of products and cleaning supplies for home, office, school and pets.  If you haven’t heard of them, check out the company’s SITE for a quick overview.  Seriously, I’m obsessed.

Want to see the stuff up close?  Now through the end of the month, TerraCycle products will be available in WalMart stores across the country.  Even cooler, the upcycled goods will be sold right next to the originals!  Looking for Frito Lay potato chips?  Well right next to the bags of chips, you’ll find tote bags made out of the wrappers!  Hopefully, seeing Frito Lay bags reincarnated as useful products will make people pause for a second and think about how much they throw away.  Check out the flyer for the limited-time engagement at Walmart HERE.

If you’re in NYC, make sure to stop by the TerraCycle Green Up Shop at Port Authority from now till May 21st.  They have a ton of events, workshops and DIY projects, not to mention lots of cool TerraCycle products!  Visit the Green Up Shop site HERE.