Despite the endless benefits that technology and gadgets provide, the electronic waste they produce is rapidly becoming a global environmental problem – and undeniably so. According to an article by Time, around six million pounds of discarded electronics are already being processed on a monthly basis at the recycling giant ERI Fresno plant. As the world gets ready to upgrade to the next generation of lightning-fast 5G gadgets, this number is expected to increase dramatically, ushering in a gigantic wave of e-waste.

Fortunately, there are many ways we can be part of the solution to this growing environmental issue. For instance, instead of simply throwing your old cameras away when it’s time to upgrade, you can think about reselling them. The used equipment on Adorama represents how the process for selling your old electronics is usually pretty simple, especially since there’s a market for pre-owned gear like cameras, video equipment, computers, and even tripods and supports.

Upcycling ideas show a better alternative

However, if your equipment is hardly in working order (which is probably why you’re thinking of upgrading in the first place), or it holds some sentimental value, upcycling could be a better alternative. Here are 5 upcycling ideas you can turn your old camera into the next cool thing in your humble home.

Create some stunning bookends

If you are someone who happens to like reading just as much as you like taking photos, then you’re in luck, as your old equipment can help you keep your library in order. With a few pieces of wood, some paint, super glue and a handful of nails, you can turn your old cameras into astonishing bookends that can keep your books organized.

Turn it into a cool light fixture

These days, even light fixtures can turn into interior decor pieces that can elevate the look of any room. Transform your old camera from a device that captures light to one that serves as a source of light by turning it into a cool light fixture. You can take inspiration from the Kodak Camera upcycled into a Chandelier by Retro Bender.

Make a cool stationery holder

We all know how expensive camera lenses can be, which is why even if they turn faulty and unusable, they can be super hard to let go of. Fortunately, you can turn them into cool new things such as a stationery holder or maybe even a coffee mug.

Have a vintage camera planter

These days, indoor plants are gaining traction, thanks to the countless bored individuals who are looking for ways to stay busy while stuck inside during quarantine. If you are one of those people who find joy in nurturing plants, why not make them extra fancy by placing them in vintage camera planters? The camera pots on Bob Vila show how every part of the camera can be used.

Build a wall decor

If you happen to have a blank wall and a box of old cameras, why not brighten your room with some artsy wall art? To make one, you would need some frames, super sticky glue, and some paint if you want a pop of color. If you don’t like frames or solid lines, you can just stick some nails to your wall from which your old cameras can hang.

Whichever way of upcycling you choose, know that these simple steps are great strides in keeping the planet a greener place. If you are in need of more inspiration we have plenty of upcycle ideas here at upcycleDZINE.