The record turnout for this year’s election can only mean one thing – a record number of campaign signs in yards. As the dust settles, you might be left with questions. Questions like: What’s the best way to dispose of my campaign sign? We’re glad you asked.
Save Them
Over the past decade, the interest and turnout for local elections has grown in scope. Candidates often run for office and reelection many times, which can be taxing (no pun intended) on a campaign budget. This is especially true for smaller races, such as school board and city council. If there’s a good chance your campaign sign will be useful again, you can save your money and the campaign’s money by storing it. The best practice is to store your signs in a cool, dry place to prevent molding and other deterioration.
Reuse Them
Campaign signs are sturdy! They were designed to withstand the elements found anywhere in the country! Consider changing the messaging and reusing your sign. Some of our favorite ideas are “Happy Birthday!” “Go Panthers!” and “Yard Sale 8 AM.” It’s up to you – it’s your personal billboard, so let your creativity run wild. If you’re more of an “only on election years” household, you can still take advantage of the materials. The signage itself is usually made of a cardboard or plastic variant. The stakes might be wood or metal wiring. Check out these instructions for DIY storage boxes and these for a DIY lamp.
Recycle Them
A lot of citizens won’t take the time to research and dispose of their signs properly, causing them to end up in landfills. Here, the signs will most likely be sent through waste incinerators. According to Beyond Plastics, a project with a mission to end plastic pollution, incinerators release toxic emissions and greenhouse gases when burning plastic. Each area of the country has its own guidelines when it comes to recycling and waste disposal. Some municipalities have designated drop-off locations for yard signs. If this is the case where you live, we encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity. Every sign that is disposed of with proper recycling techniques makes a difference in the cumulative effects on the environment.