Recycle for Art and Sustainability on Earth Day and Beyond

Photo by Pramod Kumar Sharma on Unsplash

By Debbie Hall

April is recognized as Earth Month, with Earth Day celebrated on April 22. During this time, greater attention is given to how resources are used in product creation and to the environmental costs of landfill waste, prompting both reflection and innovation. Avanti Green Eco Cleaning, led by COO Mónica Taher and CEO/Founder Claudia Meneses, shares practical tips and creative ideas for recycling and reusing materials in art, maintaining safety, and incorporating sustainability into everyday life.

“For us, sustainability is not a trend. It's how we operate daily. Our company uses eco-friendly, non-toxic products. Our employees are also trained to recycle and help our clients do so, minimize waste, and be conscious about how we use water, supplies, and materials in every job,” said Taher.

“When I was doing research before launching Avanti Green Eco Cleaning, I looked into how many cleaning companies were operating in Las Vegas and Henderson. I wanted to differentiate my company, so I decided to launch it as an eco-friendly business. I had worked with an employer who taught me about recycling and protecting the environment, and I had become used to using only non-toxic products and being mindful of the Earth. My company is a testament to that,” added Meneses.

Using Recycled Items for Art

Discarded materials with potential for creative reuse, such as glass jars, old furniture, fabric, wood pieces, and plastic bottles, can be integrated into daily life by turning them into decor or functional items. Many of these objects could have a second life with a little creativity, inspiring everyone to reduce waste and add personal touches to a home.

Glass, wood, and fabric are surprisingly versatile in art because they are durable, easy to work with, and can be transformed in many ways. Avanti Green Eco Cleaning has been shown creative works by clients, turning old jars into decor, wood scraps into shelves, and even worn furniture into statement pieces with a little restoration.

"Start small and don't overthink it. If something looks like it could be reused, set it aside before throwing it away—you'll be surprised how many ideas come up once you do. This simple step can empower you to make a difference and inspire creativity, especially when spending time with your kids," said Taher.

In fact, representatives from Avanti Green Eco Cleaning used glass, plastic, and paper during its Eco Kids workshops, a partnership with the Clark County School District. Participating in these activities can foster a sense of belonging and shared purpose in educating young minds about recycling, water conservation, and energy saving.

Sorting: What to Reuse versus Discard

When asked how to determine whether an item should be recycled, repurposed, donated, or thrown away, Taher advised, “We look at condition first. If it’s still usable, we always suggest donating or repurposing. If it’s broken but recyclable, we separate it. If it’s unsafe or too damaged, then it’s time to discard it.

Misunderstood items in recycling include contaminated items—like greasy pizza boxes. People think they’re recyclable, but they can actually contaminate the whole batch. Other items that should be discarded for safety or hygiene reasons include heavily worn sponges, certain plastics, or anything with mold or bacterial buildup. Sometimes it's just not worth the risk to reuse them.

“A lot of people think 'eco-friendly' means less effective, but that's not true. We focus on using the right techniques and high-quality green products so clients get the same, or better, results without the harsh, poisonous chemicals,” explained Taher. 

For more information, visit Avanti Green Eco Cleaning at avantigreen.com.

The first Earth Day was held in 1970, and it has since grown into an international movement. Many local communities host cleanup events, recycling drives, and educational workshops during Earth Month. By participating in these activities and making mindful choices in our daily lives, we can all help create a more sustainable and resilient world. For more info, visit earthday.org.