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As an eco friendly store and vinyl record lovers, we understand the unique position of vinyl in the world of music and the environment. Vinyl records, cherished for their rich sound and nostalgic feel, unfortunately, cannot be recycled in the traditional sense. But don't despair! The potential for upcycling these treasures is as vast as the variety of music they once played. Here's how we can hit a high note with sustainability, while also tuning into the carbon footprint of our modern music habits.

The Unrecyclable Nature of Vinyl
First, let’s face the music: vinyl records are typically made from a type of plastic called PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), which is challenging to recycle due to its composition and the risk of releasing harmful chemicals. This puts vinyl in a tricky spot in our eco-friendly playlist. However, the crescendo of the situation is that while these records can’t join the recycling band, they can be the stars of upcycling!

Upcycling Ideas:

1. Record Organiser
Hold your books, letters and folders in style. This idea from  Sea Lemon is super simple and looks rather groovy!

2. Retro Clocks
What could be cooler than tracking time with your favorite tunes? You can convert old vinyl into chic, retro clocks. With a simple clock mechanism (easily found online or at craft stores), your favorite damaged record can enjoy a second life. These clocks can be a timely reminder of the evergreen nature of good music and sustainable practices. Check out  Sammi Says Create for some simple DIY videos on this.

3. Make an awesome shelf for knick-knacks!
Melted vinyl records can be sculpted all sorts of objects like bowls and even lampshades! 
Add a little retro style to your room with a shelf crafted from your un-useable vinyl records. I am Genevieve does this really well. 

Eco-Friendly Vinyl Pressing Options
Look out for pressing plants are artists that support bio-vinyl which offers a 100% recyclable product that does not compimise sound quality. Companies like  DeepGrooves and Evolution Music are at the forefront of creating eco friendly vinyl records. 

The Tune of Technology: Streaming’s Carbon Footprint
In our modern world, streaming music has become the norm. It's easy, vast, and seemingly harmless. But, like any technology, streaming has its environmental impact, specifically regarding its carbon footprint.
Digital streaming relies on data centers, which consume massive amounts of energy. 

While the individual act of streaming a song seems like a whisper, collectively, it's more of a roar. The energy demand and the associated greenhouse gas emissions from these data centers are an often-overlooked aspect of our digital consumption.

The Final Note 
Upcycling vinyl records is a creative and impactful way to reduce waste and cherish music in a new form. Each upcycled piece carries a story, a piece of history, and a step towards a more sustainable future. 

And while we embrace these new forms, let's also be conscious of the environmental impacts of our digital music habits. By being aware and taking action, we can ensure that our love for music goes hand in hand with our respect for the planet.

As we close this symphony of sustainability, remember, every small step towards upcycling and conscious streaming counts in our journey to a greener world. 
Let your love for music be the soundtrack of your eco-friendly lifestyle!

Earth Day. Eco Friendly. Up-Cycle. Re-Use. Vintage.