“Do you recycle?” isn’t exactly a riveting conversation starter nor will the topic have people “LOLing” at dinner, but the impact of it should be exciting. This is because we can make a difference not only on our planet but also on us and our health. The practice reduces waste sent to landfills, conserves natural resources, reduces pollutions, and creates jobs. So why do we not recycle more… consistently?
We all lead busy lives – and it’s sometimes hard to get motivated – but educating yourself on the benefits of recycling can inspire us to try harder. Instead of being “boring”, we can make it an exciting challenge.
Here at the Stump Farm, where White Raven Financial is located, I’ve learned far more about recycling that I ever knew possible. From using food scraps as compost, old cooking utensils as landscaping art, to the overall effort to minimize our carbon footprint, I became more aware of my own recycling habits and how to improve.
Many items that you throw in the trash can actually be recycled. Leftover foods can be tossed in your compost bin. Opt-out of junk mail that you never bother to open. Reuse paper for scrap notes or crafts. Use reusable bags instead of plastic. Buy rechargeable batteries. Repurpose glass jars and containers to make pretty home-products. Turn that old t-shirt into a car rag. These are all simple, convenient ways to become a better recycler. It could save you in money and could save your environment.
A few key hints and reminders:
- Check your local municipality for recycling procedures as these can vary from city to city.
- Pay attention to the symbols on your plastic containers as it will determine how well it can be recycled. There are many guides online that you can reference to.
- Try to keep your recyclable containers as clean as possible. It makes it easier and cheaper to process.
- Styrofoam, take-out food containers, bottles carrying hazardous liquids or old batteries that may contain mercury… these are example of items that generally cannot be recycled.
- Be cognizant of what you buy and check to see if it is recyclable (and/or recycled) materials.
