Question: What do shopping at the Salvation Army, using recycled toilet paper, and making a flowerpot out of an old food container have in common?
Answer: They are all forms of recycling!
Beginning the practice of recycling is a valuable step when striving for a greener life. By definition, to recycle means to put or pass through a cycle again, or to recondition and adapt to a new use or function. Having such a broad definition naturally leads the term "recycle" to take on many different forms-most of which are extremely beneficial to our planet. Exploring the options of recycling is an important step when on the path to developing a more sustainable and environmentally friendly lifestyle.
How Can I Recycle?
Divide and conquer:
Dividing up common trash and recyclable products is one of the most common forms of recycling. This requires that you keep items such as cardboard, cans, paper, glass, and plastics separate from the rest of your trash and then that you see that the separated materials are brought to the appropriate facilities. There is a possibility that your hometown has recycling programs in which a service will come and pick up your recycled materials for free. However, often you must take the initiative to set up this free service by calling your local town hall and inquiring. If your town does not offer free recycling, there are other options. Paid recycling programs are offered throughout most of the country where you can pay a small price to have your recyclable materials picked up. Alternatively, you can drop them off at a center yourself. Chances are that there is a recycling center within a 20-mile radius of your home. To find your nearest recycling center go to your city or town government website and search for "recycling drop-off centers." One you find a center, they will inform you of what materials are permitted for recycling.
Recycling your materials does not need to stop when you leave the home. When out in public be mindful of where you are throwing your recyclables away. Often there are designated bins and cans for recycled materials.
Learn to compost:
Compost, by definition, means to purposively decompose organic matter (such as vegetable peels, coffee grounds, egg shells, over ripe produce and tea bags) into a fertilizer that can then go back to the earth. Thus you are adopting matter to a new function making composting another valuable way to recycle. Not only is it a considered an environmentally responsible practice, but composted soil is some of the richest and most fertile soil which makes it a valuable resource for those of us who garden. The act of composting requires that you keep your organic matter separate from the rest of your trash and allow it to completely decay. Some experts suggest adding a small amount of water to your compost bin to speed up the process. Depending on your available land, you may want to have an outdoor composting bin. If you chose to go this route, be sure that the bin is shut tight to avoid luring critters to the decomposing matter. Similarly, if you have a small bin in doors that you periodically dispose of out-of-doors, be sure that the container is air tight to keep the smell contained. To learn more about composting visit www.howtocompost.org.
Switch over to products that use recycled materials
Using products that are made from partially if not entirely recycled materials is an easy and effective way to recycle. It keeps landfills less crowded, saves natural resources and cuts back on the energy costs of creating all new materials. Some of the most common products that can be made from recycled materials include paper products such as toilet paper, binders, computer paper, newspapers, and plates. However, you can find 1000s of common household items that you might not expect-even items such as hard wood flooring, home dÈcor, and clothing can use recycled materials.
Discover the thrill of thrift stores, garage sales, and antique stores:
Shopping at thrift stores, garage sales and antique stores is an excellent way to recycle. Purchasing second-hand products such as cloths, furniture and electronics is an extremely environmentally friendly practice. By using recycled products you are eliminating the use of new materials, fuel and energy that would otherwise have been spent in the creation of a new product. Further, visiting consignment shops is usually great fun as you can often find unique treasures for great deals!
Get Creative
Recycling in the home can be fun! Teach your children the value of recycling by doing environmentally friendly arts and crafts that use old household items that may otherwise be thrown away. For instance, try making a personalized drum out of an old coffee can, turning an egg carton into decorated little critters, or making a unique purse out of an old pair of jeans. If you ever find yourself lacking creative ideas you can search the web for playful and planet friendly arts and crafts.
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