About Us

Here are the seven principles that shape every class, exhibit, collaboration, and idea behind The Recycling Project. This is the framework that drives our mission from concept to real-world impact.

1. Waste Culture Is the Core Problem

Modern society is built on a throwaway mindset. We treat resources as disposable, and that mindset fuels every downstream environmental crisis. Understanding the culture is the first step to changing it.

2. Waste Is a Major Driver of Environmental Collapse

From climate emissions to toxic by-products to ecosystem destruction, waste is one of the top contributors to global harm. The scale of the issue demands attention, data, and honest conversation.

3. Recycling Alone Cannot Fix the System

Most “recycling” never becomes new products. Systems vary by province, contamination rates are high, and much of what we think is being diverted… isn’t. We focus on real data, not wishful thinking.

4. Landfills Are Tombs, Not Solutions

Landfills don’t solve waste — they store it. What breaks down produces methane, toxins, and leachate. What doesn’t break down becomes a permanent monument to outdated design.

5. Individuals and Communities Have Real Power

History shows that everyday people, small groups, and local communities drive some of the biggest environmental shifts. We highlight the stories, case studies, and strategies that prove it.

6. Innovation Already Exists — We Collect It

Around the world, people are building creative, practical, and scalable waste solutions. We document what’s working, what’s failed, and how ideas move from imagination to implementation.

7. Our Role Is To Spark Action Through Tools, Creativity, and Proof

The Recycling Project uses data, creative design, and hands-on tools to help people rethink waste — and to show that meaningful change isn’t just possible, it’s accessible. The mission is simple: rethink waste, revive the planet.

It starts with art - because art gets people to look. Through upcycled plaster-and-plastic creations, mixed-media photography, and, soon, interactive exhibits, we shine a spotlight on what’s possible when you treat waste as raw material. Each piece is a conversation starter - a tangible reminder that beauty and garbage aren’t opposites.

Check out our portfolio on Instagram @dandelion.te 

Then we have education - because we can’t change what we don’t understand. These classes are not art based but any workshops and classes include various types of recycling art.

Trash Truths & Dump Myths: We’ve developed a curriculum of 22 classroom-ready modules for schools, cities, and community organizations. These aren’t sugar-coated “go green” lessons; they’re grounded, fact-based explorations of what actually happens to our waste and how we can do better. Empowering and eye opening! Vet and endorsed by Rhett Rielkoff, Manager, School of Environment and Sustainability, Royal Roads University. *See endorsement below in the "Highlights & Recognition' section, or our Licensable Content page

Check our the licensable classes at www.therecyclingproject.com

We are also working on in-person workshops and online courses, making the truth about recycling and landfill systems accessible and showing that real solutions start with real knowledge.

The third prong is The Recycling Project Hub - this website you are on now. This is an ever growing library for straight-talk and on how to live with less waste and more impact.
Here, we make it easy to take action right now. Simple swaps, creative DIYs, and inspiring resources all in one place. Because sustainability shouldn’t feel like a guilt trip — it should feel like empowerment.

Goal for this website include:

• Case studies and real-world data from various eco projects around the world

• A library of DIY resources for educators and individuals

• An online “Living Lab” of materials, ideas, and success stories

• Expanded national partnerships and municipal collaborations

The long-term vision is to turn waste into functional building material - creating sidewalks, building materials, benches, planters, furniture, and community structures from what would’ve gone to landfill.
This isn’t just about art anymore; it’s about infrastructure, innovation, and survival. Waste is the raw material of the future, and we’re proving how we can use it use it - even if it end up being a place to track smarter people doing it better then we ever could ;)

Coming soon on this website- SO MANY case-studies and our own stats and projects.

• Port Alberni artist turns trash into elegant art for sustainable purposes - Alberni Valley News

• Port Day Event:

• • https://www.portday.ca/event-highlights/ 

• • https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AoijzcrWG/

• Port Day Community Arts Council - https://www.portday.ca/2025/05/16/community-arts-council/ 

• The Grove Art Gallery - Featured Artist

• Classes by The Recycling Project: Trash Truths & Dump Myths - Vett and endorsed by Rhett Rielkoff, Manager, School of Environment and Sustainability, Royal Roads University:
  “Kalin has developed some really great educational content around recycling and waste reduction, that is valuable to students at many levels. From kids, to teens to adults, there is something here for everyone. Very comprehensive; highlighting the truth about recycling and waste in our societies, what can be done better, and how individuals and groups can make a difference. Well designed curriculum and modules that can be used in a variety of educational settings, filled with tons of information, fun activities and beautiful artwork to boot!”