Daily Recycling: Where do I begin?
I hear you want to recycle but don’t know where to begin. Worry no more, here is a short guide to recycling for beginners!
First things first, why should you recycle? The world’s natural resources are limited. By recycling, you are reducing the need to use those raw materials from Earth. You ensure less waste goes into our landfills and less energy being used during the manufacturing process. By recycling, you can help make the world a cleaner and safer place.
So, what is recycling? The definition from the EPA (US Environmental Protection Agency) says recycling is the process of collecting and processing materials that would otherwise be thrown away as trash and turning them into new products. It is a 3-step ongoing process that is represented by the recycling logo that you are probably familiar with!
Here are the 3 steps of recycling:
Step 1: Collection and Processing
- During this step recyclables are collected then processed into materials for manufacturing.
Step 2: Manufacturing
- For this step, the materials made from the recyclables are manufactured into products such as newspapers, plastic, and other everyday use items.
Step 3: Purchasing Recycled Products
- In order to complete the loop, the last step is to buy the materials made from recycled products.
Well, what can I recycle? Let’s start with the basics.
Plastics
- Bottles, containers, cups and utensils.
Cardboard and Paper
- Cereal and snack boxes
- Magazine and newspapers
- Mail and other office paper
Metal
- Tin, aluminum, and steel cans
Glass
- Jars
- Drink bottles
- Wine/Liquor Bottles
Alright, now how do I recycle? Well, recycling can be different based on your location. Some cities allow you to recycle certain products and some don’t. So, my best advice to you is to check out your local recycling regulations. See what you can recycle, how it needs to be recycled, and when and where it needs to go.
What happens next, you ask? Spread the word and GO RECYCLE!!