By Spramani Elaun
Why Recycling Old Crayons Matters
Each year, an estimated 100,000 pounds of crayons end up in landfills. Most people do not realize that crayons take an extremely long time to break down naturally. As an art teacher and artist working with children for many years, I saw firsthand how quickly crayons accumulate in homes, schools, and restaurants. Throwing them away never felt right. That realization became the starting point for a more sustainable solution.
How the Recycle Crayon Program Began
Over time, I collected pounds and pounds of broken, worn, and well-loved crayons. Curious and concerned, I began researching how crayons are made and what happens to them after disposal. What I learned was eye-opening. Instead of letting these materials go to waste, I began experimenting with recycling old crayons into new forms. This hands-on exploration led to the creation of the very first square block crayons.
From Local Idea to Sustainable Crayon Company
The first Colour Blocks™ crayons were sold at a local farmers market in San Diego in 2008. What started as a small recycling effort quickly grew into something much bigger. That early experiment became Colour Blocks, the first 100 percent sustainable crayon company on the West Coast. The mission has always remained the same, reduce waste and support children’s creativity in an earth-friendly way.
How Colour Blocks Supports Children and Communities
Today, Colour Blocks crayons are used and loved by children around the world. Sales from recycled crayons help fund free art programming for children across the United States. Crayons are also donated to nonprofit organizations and community groups in need. In addition to recycling, Colour Blocks works to educate families, schools, and organizations about sustainability year-round.
What Makes the Recycle Crayon Program Special
The Recycle Crayon Program is designed to make participation simple and accessible. Crayons of any shape or size can be recycled. Old crayons are transformed into beautiful, sustainable square block crayons. The program partners with families, schools, restaurants, and major Goodwill Industries across the West Coast. Every donation helps keep materials out of landfills while supporting creative opportunities for children.
How to Recycle Your Old Crayons
Recycling crayons through Colour Blocks is easy and meaningful.
- Collect old crayons in any shape
- Weigh the crayons you wish to donate
- If shipping costs are a concern, support is available for eligible donations
Shipping support within the United States may be provided for qualifying donations, helping remove barriers to participation.
info@spramani.com
Ship to: P.O. Box 442, Solana Beach, CA 92078
Why Sustainable Art Supplies Matter
Choosing sustainable art supplies teaches children that creativity and care for the planet can go hand in hand. Recycling crayons helps reduce waste while giving materials a second life. Children learn that everyday objects can be reused in thoughtful ways. These small actions help build long-term environmental awareness.
Thank You for Supporting the Recycle Crayon Program
Every crayon recycled helps reduce landfill waste and supports creative opportunities for children. Sharing this program helps spread awareness and grow its impact. Together, small actions can lead to meaningful change. Thank you for being part of a more sustainable art future.
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