Upcycling Ideas
Hey Featherstone Farm Fans!
Ever wonder what to do with all the packaging materials in your CSA box? We're right there with you, always striving to keep it minimal because we know, just like you, that reducing plastic is a big deal!
Our Packaging Philosophy
We aim to use as little plastic as possible, but sometimes those veggies need a bit of extra protection. We've experimented with compostable bags in the past, but they didn't keep our produce as fresh as we'd like. Good news though – we're working on it! We've applied for a grant to bring in washable, reusable boxes with smaller vents to keep everything crisp and delicious.
Fun Ways to Upcycle and Recycle
In the meantime, here are some creative ideas for reusing the packaging materials you'll find in your box. Let's get crafty and eco-friendly!
Egg Cartons
School Projects: Schools often use egg cartons for art and STEM projects. Check if your local school needs some!
Food Shelves: Some food shelves reuse them, so don't hesitate to donate.
Seed Starters: Perfect for starting spring seeds. Tear off each cup and plant directly in your garden.
Farmers’ Markets: Ask your favorite vendor if they could use a few extra cartons.
Storage: Great for organizing ornaments and other fragile items.
Compost: Most paper egg cartons are compostable too.
Rubber Bands
No-Slip Hangers: Wrap them around hangers to keep clothes from slipping off.
Fresh Cereal: Use them to seal cereal bags and keep contents fresh.
Jar Opener: Wrap around jar lids for an easy grip.
Crafts: Donate to schools for craft projects.
Bouncy Ball Fun: Let your kids collect them to make homemade bouncy balls – fun guaranteed!
Plastic Bags
Recycling: Clean, dry plastic bags can be recycled at most co-ops, Lunds and Byerly’s, and Target stores.
Shipping Liner: Use large bags to line boxes for shipping to keep everything dry.
Food Shelves: Check if your local food shelf needs donations of plastic or paper bags.
CSA Boxes
Return Them: Please return your dry, empty boxes to your pick-up site so we can reuse them. This helps us cut down on costs and waste.
We Want to Hear From You!
Got more upcycling ideas? Share them with us at csa@featherstonefarm.com. Your tips might be featured in a future newsletter!
Happy Upcycling!