In an effort to further reduce waste, TerraCycle, Inc. and Old Navy are joining a month-long drive to collect used flip flops and recycle them into four public playgrounds around the country.

The Auburn community is encouraged to participate by stopping by an Old Navy store to deposit used flip-flops in designated collection bins. Starting April 22 and running through May 21, Old Navy shoppers can deposit their used flip flops in colorful collection bins found inside any Old Navy store. TerraCycle will then recycle the flip-flops into playgrounds which will be donated to communities around the country.

Between April 17-23, shoppers can bring in 10 used pens, markers or mechanical pencils to Office Depot and receive a coupon toward new Sanford products (maker of Sharpie, Expo, PaperMate). The used writing instruments will be sent to TerraCycle to be recycled into new office products such as trash cans and desk organizers.

Schools and community groups in Auburn also can get involved in TerraCycle’s free recycling fundraisers, which pay two cents for every piece of used packaging returned. Interested parties can learn more or sign up today at www.terracycle.net.

Participating Office Depots in the Auburn area are located at 1227 Auburn Way N., and 1407 S 348th St., Federal Way. The closest Old Navy location is on Supermall Way in Auburn.

Participating schools in the area include Terminal Park, Valhalla and Ilalko elementary schools.