December 8, 2009

Putting a cork in it is the idea behind new recycling boxes sprouting up at local stores.

You'll see cork recycling boxes at various stores. The idea came from the conservation-minded people at the Carpet Plus Store in Charlottesville.

Liz Eure with Carpet Plus says it's the area's only organized cork recycling program.

The idea is for wine drinkers to keep their corks, and bring them to the drop-off locations.

Cork is 100% biodegradable and renewable, so recycled cork can be used for cork flooring, building insulation, soil conditioner, automotive gaskets, shoe soles, and sporting equipment.

Collected corks are sent to a recycling facility. You can find drop-off boxes at Foods of All Nations, Kluge Winery, and the Market Street Wine Shop.

For more information, check out the link below.