Recycling Tips

Photo: dosomething.org

Recycling not only helps the environment by eliminating waste from the landfills, but it also helps decrease the amount of natural resources we need to use, since we already have the materials we need to work with. If you're not already recycling, here are a few easy tips to get you started:

-Create (or purchase) bins to store your recyclables in. They don't have to be fancy or even have the recycle symbol on it. They can be as simple as an old laundry basket. 

-Keep your recycle bins in an area that you are most likely to use them. For example, keep a small bin for paper waste near your desk or wherever you sort mail or use the most paper. Keep a small bin in the kitchen that you can empty into a larger barrel as it becomes full to store items such as paperboard, plastics and aluminum. 

-Keep recycled containers clean so they don't create offensive odors or attract pests like flies, cockroaches and maggots. You can use recycled water to clean them.

-Consider re-purposing items for things you need around the home such as shelving, storage containers and so on.

-To save space in your bins, crush or flatten your recyclables. They will still be recyclable.

-When recycling paper, make sure you remove address labels and confidential information. Those should be shredded.

-Use shredded paper to line animal cages instead of wood chips. You can also add it to worm bedding if you're doing vermiculture.

-Check with your local recycling/waste management office to find out which items are accepted in your area before saving them.

-If you live in an area that doesn't provide curbside recycling, consider only making one to two trips per month. Even better, consider carpooling with neighbors and have fun on the trip!

-remember that anything made of metal can be recycled. Contact your local waste management office to find out how to recycle old appliances.

-If you want to dispose of items such as clothing, furniture, and household items that are still usable, try posting them on Craig's List, Listia and Freecycle so that others can benefit from them as well.

-Most aerosol cans made of steel are recyclable too, so don't forget to add those to your bin.

-Rechargeable batteries contain heavy metals and need to be recycled. Most retailers who sell them, will also take recycled ones.

-Plastic shopping bags can be recycled at many big chain stores including Meijer, Wal-Mart and many chain grocery stores. Some county recycling centers will take them as well depending on where you live. Check with your local center first.

Remember, if every person recycled their trash, we could save over 10.4 MILLION pounds of trash from reaching landfills each year!!! 

Until next time, 

Be Well!