Recycling, Repurposing, Upcycling – what’s the difference? …and what exactly is Upcycling?
We all know what recycling is. A plastic bag is used to carry home groceries then is later reused by the owner who uses the bag a second or third time, perhaps to again carry groceries or store items. The bag has been recycled by its owner. The bag is being reused but the value of the bag remains the same.
In upcycling, the item is often no longer being used for its intended purpose but is repurposed – given a new purpose – and along with this new purpose it is also given an increase in value (usually both aesthetically and monetarily) It is worth more in its new form.
Recycled – used again and value remains unchanged
Repurposed – used again but with a new purpose
Upcycled – used again, with a new purpose, and with greater value than its original state
Why are upcycled items so desirable?
They are created with innovation and creativity!
Necklace pendant made from broken Shelley Blue Rock teacup
Wisegeek said it best:
