Don't throw those old sneakers away!

Recycle them! There used to be places you could mail your sneakers to, and they would be sent to runners in Africa who don't have shoes. Unfortunately I've been able to locate that non-profit. However, Nike does grind up your old sneakers and make them into athletic surfaces (ie tracks, weight room mats, etc.). Then it donates them to places that need them. Check the location link for a place near you. Unfortunately there aren't too many drop off points. You can, however, mail them. Sneakers aren't that heavy, and heck, you'll be supporting the US Postal Service - it's taken a hit since the advent of email. Anyway, I'm not some sort of rabid recycler, but little things make a difference. Oh yeah, and next time you go to the grocery store, bring back those old plastic bags, there is usually a drop off right there in the store. The plastic grocery bags cause huge problems in landfills because they just love to float away.