Recycled vs. Upcycled: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters

Discover what sets recycled and upcycled products apart, and why

choosing either helps build a better, more circular world.

At Earthshopp, we believe in breaking things down simply. This guide walks you through what recycling and upcycling mean, how they support a circular economy, and how to get started with small, sustainable swaps.

What Is Recycled?

Recycling means breaking down old items into raw materials to make something new. For example, turning plastic bottles into fabric or aluminum cans into new cans.

Common recycled items: paper, plastic, glass, metal.
Pro tip: Make sure your recyclables are clean and sorted correctly to avoid contamination.

What Is Upcycled?

Upcycling gives an item a new life without breaking it down. Instead of going to a landfill, the product is reused creatively.

Examples: turning old jeans into a tote bag or glass bottles into vases.
Bonus: Upcycling usually requires less energy and fewer resources than recycling.

Upcycled Favorites

Upcycled Reusable Shopping Bag

Crafted from reclaimed fabric, perfect for groceries or everyday errands.

Tree-Free Journal with Upcycled Fabric Cover

Made from cotton pulp and wrapped in upcycled textiles, this journal is as beautiful as it is sustainable.

Handwoven Hemp Backpack

A sturdy, artisan-made backpack from organic hemp and cotton, designed to last.

Recycled & Reusable Essentials

Bamboo Jar Lids – Jars Not Included

A simple way to give your existing jars a sustainable upgrade. Made from natural bamboo and perfect for pantry storage.A reusable solution for pantry organization, durable and recyclable.

Scrub Brushes with Recycled Bristles

Sustainable cleaning tools made with recycled and plant-based materials.

Natural Castile Soap – All-Purpose Liquid Cleaner

A plant-based, biodegradable formula that replaces multiple plastic-packaged cleaners. Great for body, home, and more.

Why This Matters

Our planet is drowning in waste. Recycling and upcycling help reduce what ends up in landfills and oceans. More importantly, they shift how we think about stuff, from disposable to reusable.

A circular economy is all about this mindset. It focuses on keeping materials in use longer and avoiding waste at every step. Choosing recycled or upcycled goods helps push this movement forward.

What You Can Do

Choose items made from recycled or upcycled materials.
Repurpose things at home instead of throwing them out.
Support brands that embrace circular design.
Ask: Can I give this a second life?

There Is Hope

You don’t need to be perfect. Even one small swap makes a difference. Whether it’s a reusable bag or a journal made from scraps, every action adds up. And as more people make these choices, we create a world that values reuse over waste.

At Earthshopp, we’re proud to support recycled and upcycled options that help protect our planet.