Even though about 75% of people living in the US follow the Reduce, Reuse & Recycle mantra, EPA reports tell us that we’re still generating about 254 million tons of trash. Because a whopping 87 million tons of this ‘trash’ consists of various recycling materials, the recycling rate is only at 34.3%, leaving plenty of room for improvement. Add to this the fact that between 5% and 15% of what we throw away is hazardous to our health, it’s easy to see how crucial it is for everyone to do their part when it comes to recycling.
It’s truly essential for every household and every business to find the best ways they can reduce their use of plastic in order to save our planet.
Recycling is Our Responsibility
The benefits to recycling are many, making it necessary for every community member to do their part when it comes to recycling. It’s truly our responsibility as a society to be accountable for what we throw away. The fact that we can link recycling to global warming makes it even more essential for both homeowners and businesses to understand the recycling steps they can take to reduce global warming.
Home Recycling Ideas
It doesn’t take a lot of effort to recycle at home. And the rewards for doing so are not only beneficial for your household, but for the entire world because you’re doing your part when it comes to a clean environment. One of the best ways you can reduce the need to recycle is by simply choosing to buy products that are made using recycled packaging.
Newspaper, Cardboard, Magazines, Paper, etc.
Ask for e-receipts, and check online for news instead of subscribing to your local newspapers, further reducing paper waste. When recycling these materials, don’t include laminated items, and make sure to remove all rubber bands. Also, remember to flatten as much as possible before putting paper-based items in a recycling bin.
Plastic Recycling
The majority of plastics are not biodegradable. In fact, it can take up to 500 years for plastic-based items to decompose in a landfill, making plastic recycling more important than ever. Plastics are given numbers that determine how they’re to be recycled, requiring plastics to be separated before recycling. You can bring your own cloth bags when going to the grocery store to reduce plastic use.
Glass Recycling
Glass recycling is done by color (clear, brown, green), and you don’t have to worry about removing any labels. Since most recycling centers don’t accept lightbulbs or mirrors, you can contact your local recycling company for advice on where to recycle glass items.
Aluminum Can Recycling
Almost every city has an aluminum can recycling center that will pay you good money for aluminum cans.
Freecycle
Giving away any items you no longer use, i.e. clothes, books, bikes, furniture, is a great way to recycle unused items that would otherwise go into the trash. Items can be given as hand-me-downs or donated to local thrift shops and non-profits.
Recycling Ideas for Local Businesses
Today, many businesses are putting a focus on going green, which includes recycling. In order for any business to be successful when it comes to recycling, every single person must make a commitment. This involves making a recycling plan to make sure everyone is on the same page. You can also use it for educational purposes.
Use Labeled Recycling Bins
Different colored recycling bins make it easy to keep different recyclables organized. Label and color-coordinate your bins to encourage better recycling.
Paper Recycling
Use today’s electronic technologies to go paperless, i.e. email. Since paper waste tends to be high for every business, only print when absolutely necessary and print on both sides. Also, call to get removed from national mailing lists, which will greatly reduce the amount of junk mail received.
Package Recycling
If your business receives a lot of packages, try to avoid accepting any corrugated cardboard packages. Instead, look into using reusable plastic shipping containers.
Plastic Recycling
Don’t buy individual plastic bottles of water. Instead, install a filter in the break room for clean water access. This can save money over time as well.
Collect E-Waste
Offer a container where everyone can put their electronic waste, i.e. old or broken cell phones, computers, televisions.
RBS Sanitation
RBS Sanitation offers the best recycling services in the Sioux Falls and surrounding areas in South Dakota. Whether you’re looking for local recycling services for your home or for your business, RBS Sanitation can give you the tools you need for recycling success. If you happen to have any questions about local recycling, or are simply looking for the best recycling ideas that can help you recycle more efficiently, don’t hesitate and give them a call today so you can get started on your new recycling venture.
We’re an eco friendly recycling company that makes the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle mantra part of their mission.
Think globally, act locally. ~David Brower