EDITORIAL: Hey Waco: Let's freecycle
There’s an online “freecycling” recycling phenomenon that’s sweeping the country and world — and we’re glad to report in Waco, too — where folks are making use of others’ unwanted items for free.
Honestly, how much better can free be?
The freecycling system relies on the honor system. And so far, it proves to be working, even in today’s economy.
Say you bought a new TV and want to donate your usable, old TV, just post it on the Web site. Someone will gladly snatch it up.
Likewise, if you are looking for a bicycle to get around town, check out the Web site because someone might have one offered.
It’s kind of like pay it forward with no strings attached — just good feelings toward others in the community. And we all could use some good feelings this year.
Aside from helping those in need, this program helps our planet, as well.
Every item spared from our overcrowded landfills is one less item polluting our lands.
The Heart of Texas Freecycling group was founded in 2004 and has grown to 2,467 members. There are 4,871 of the nonprofit Freecycle Network groups in the United States and the world. Total members number 6.8 million globally.
That’s a lot of people giving and getting a lot of stuff.
The local Web site is easy to navigate, and membership is free. Go to http://groups.yahoo.com/group/hotfreecycle.
Indicate whether you want to give or get or if you are taking. To offer an item, jot down a brief description. Those requesting items frequently write a line of pre-thanks to potential givers. Not accepted: pet ads, job announcements or business advertising.
Last month during the holidays, there were 604 messages posted on our local site. Just last week, 211 people signed on.
Most of the items are ready to wear or use. Some require a little patience and elbow grease.
You know the saying, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.”
We can hardly call these items trash, but there are plenty of treasures to be found.
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