I'm a big advocate of recycling. Unfortunately, the recycling industry is collapsing for two primary reasons; many of our recycling bins are contaminated with food waste and other non-cyclables, therefore rendering the contents unusable, and the markets for recyclables are shrinking. The bottom line is landfills are currently more profitable than recycling.
So if 90% of what we try to recycle ends up in a landfill because of contamination and being unable to find a market for recyclables, what are we to do?
REDUCE and REUSE.
Refrain from buying single use items. Many items that can be washed and reused. Personally, I don't buy single use water bottles; instead, I use a refillable Yeti or other reusable water bottle with a REUSABLE metal straw. Use filtered water if you prefer.
Repurpose your empty prescription bottles: Did you know many veterinary clinics accept empty prescription bottles? I toss them in a drawer until I've accumulated a dozen or so bottles, then I take them to my local vet's office. They are always happy to receive them.
Cardboard boxes: As a Realtor, I pass my Amazon boxes on to clients to use for moving. Sometimes others in my community save them for me. It keeps those boxes from the recycle bin, or worse yet, a landfill.
Recycle your electronics responsibly. Most areas will have a certified e-recycling center. A quick Google search will point you in the right direction. I've taken several items to my local Best Buy for recycling.
These are simple, everyday steps we can take to reduce our carbon footprint. Be good to Mother Earth. For other ideas and tips to reduce waste and to recycle, visit this link, Recycle Across America.
Happy Recycling Day, America!
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