Recycling is one of the biggest things an individual can do to help the planet. Almost 140 million tons of waste end up in landfills in the United States every year, however, an estimated third of this material could have been recycled.
So what do you need to know in order to recycle better?
Keep reading for our top tips on how to recycle more and reduce the amount you throw away.
1. Know the Rules Where You Live
It’s important to be aware of what can and can’t go into the recycle bin. The rules tend to differ between each locality so it’s important to be up to date with the rules that are relevant to you.
Different areas can have quite specific technicalities when it comes to recycling. For example, plastic bottles can be recycled, while the bottle tops cannot.
Pay attention to electronic recycling as batteries and other electronic objects often need to be recycled at specific locations such as supermarkets.
2. Get Creative When It Comes to Reusing
The recycling center is just one option you have when it comes to finding solutions for waste materials. Metal recycling can be difficult in some areas, but luckily this is a great resource for creating art or for projects around the home.
For example, turn tin cans into flower pots, or turn a filing cabinet panel into a modern bedside table. If you have children, cardboard sheets can be used for painting and collages, and plastic tubs can be used to store loose pencils and crayons.
Another way to recycle that you might not have considered yet is recycling water. There are ways for your plumbing to be rearranged so that the water you use to shower is then used to flush the toilet. This is a great method of recycling without even trying!
3. Consider the Alternatives Before Throwing Away
If the item you need to dispose of cannot be recycled or turned into something else, there are still other options before you turn to a landfill site. Consider whether anyone else could benefit from the material, as charities and other companies can often make use of unusual items.
Also, it’s worth keeping waste and recycling in mind from the moment of purchase onwards. When buying items, you should ask yourself: where will this packaging end up? How can I reuse this object?
If the material of the object you’re looking to get rid of isn’t recyclable, Responsible Recycling is one of several services you can contact that help you get the most out of your recycling efforts.
Now You Can Improve the Way You Recycle
Our individual recycling efforts are crucial if we want to help prevent climate change and reduce pollution. Following these ideas for improving your recycling is a significant way to improve your efforts to be greener and more environmentally friendly.
If you found this article about how to improve the ways you recycle helpful, make sure you check out our other green living tips!
