URBAN BENCHES

When an old park bench has served its time, simply sending it to a landfill feels wasteful. Fortunately, you have several responsible and creative options. First, check with your local municipal waste authority. Many cities offer bulk waste pickup for large items, and some may have specific guidelines for treated wood or metal components. If the bench is still in decent condition, consider donation. Local community gardens, schools, churches, or nonprofit organizations often welcome such items. For the creatively inclined, upcycling offers fantastic potential. A sturdy wooden bench can be transformed into a charming garden planter, a unique indoor seating area, or even broken down to use the wood for smaller DIY projects. Metal benches can be taken to a scrapyard for recycling. If the bench is damaged beyond repair, ensure it's disposed of properly. Separate materials if possible—metal parts to a recycler and treated wood to an appropriate facility, as it often cannot be composted. By choosing reuse, recycling, or proper disposal, you extend the life of the materials and contribute to a more sustainable community.