Green Your Music Buying Experience

Earlier this week we took a look at whether or not iTunes is eco-friendly. iTunes and MP3s are greener than other music gear and tunes because it cuts down on packaging and big equipment. However, some of us, including me still love vinyl and other people still like CDs. So, how can we green our music up somewhat?…

GREEN YOUR VINYL:

• Close the loop by buying used records. There is plenty of used vinyl out there in great shape. BONUS, you’ll save scads of cash. Buying used means less packaging and less new PVC vinyl on your personal footprint.
• Learn how to take care of your vinyl. Bad vinyl users aren’t eco-friendly, because they’re wasting perfectly good records.
• Buy a used record player. You can get a good used record player at the same places you find used records – garage sales, thrift stores, and some secondhand music shops. Just make sure it works first.
• Recycle your vinyl when you’re done. You can’t technically recycle vinyl, but it can be used to make other items. Look for local artists in your community who create art and gear with old records.
• Get vocal and ask the record companies and bands to release vinyl in digital form or to use recycled materials in the packaging.
• Before tossing old vinyl see if someone else wants it – a pal, a music shop, a school. Don’t blindly toss if the record could still be used.

GREEN YOUR CDS:

• Again, buying used is a great alternative to purchasing brand new CDs. You get a deal, the earth gets a deal, everyone is happy. Well, maybe not bands, but you know.
• If you switch over discs to a disc holder, and aren’t into keeping the CD covers, recycled them. You can also recycled your discs if they die.
• If you don’t recycle your discs, use them to make something new.
• Share with pals. If you like MP3s, but still buy discs because not all music is available for download, share with friends. It’s silly to have three pals buy the same disc. Note, I’m not so sure this is on the legal up and up – but it’s for sure on the green up and up.

Next in this music series; some general green music tips that span across all listening modes.

How are you greening your music buying experience? Share in the comments.

[image via stock.xchng]