Recycling Should Be the Last Option
When the conversation turns to ways to save the planet, one common topic is recycling. It is easy to find lots of information on what to recycle, how to recycle, where to recycle. But recycling should really be the very last option we choose, only after we have exhausted the other R’s: Rethink, Reduce and Reuse/Repurpose. Let’s take a look at each of these options, as well as Recycling.
Rethink: Rethinking is the proactive step that we can take to minimize waste. Where are you using disposable materials that could be replaced with reusable items? Can you choose cleaning products that contain fewer toxins or are more environmentally friendly? Are you selecting products made with recycled materials? Taking some time to think about the type of waste we produce sets us up for the next steps.
Reduce: Hopefully your proactive thinking has identified ways you can reduce the amount of waste you produce. It might mean switching to reusable grocery bags or taking your own carry-out containers to a restaurant. Perhaps you can switch to buying items in bulk or even take advantage of businesses that allow you to refill containers. What’s another way you can reduce waste? Stop throwing out food! The USDA estimates that the average family of four spends $1500 each year on food that never gets eaten. Where does that food go? Much of it goes into landfills, where it generates methane. According to the EPA, landfills are the third-largest source of human-related methane emissions in the U.S. (https://www.epa.gov/recycle/preventing-wasted-food-home) Not creating waste is far more effective than trying to manage it.
Reuse/Repurpose: Many of the items that get discarded in our country can still be used, either for their original purpose or in some other way. Small containers can be used for storage or in craft projects. Planning on shipping something – use cut up egg cartons instead of Styrofoam peanuts. Take advantage of the many thrift stores and on-line marketplace forums to get rid of items you no longer need, as well as a way to get a good deal on something you do need! Start a compost pile to convert those food scraps into great soil for your garden and house plants. And don’t forget to take care of the items you have – good maintenance will help keep many tools functional for years to come.
Recycle: Finally, if you can’t find any other use for an item, then see if it is recyclable. In addition to city and county recycling programs, there are many other private programs to recycle specific items. The website Earth911 has a search function that helps you find businesses that recycle (https://search.earth911.com/). Another website, Terracyle (https://www.terracycle.com/en-US/), has lots of recycling programs available. Currently the Creation Justice Team is collecting pet food bags, one of the programs sponsored by Terracycle. If you see a program you would like to try, contact a member of the Creation Justice Team.
We can all find ways to rethink, reduce, reuse, and recycle. Every action you take makes a difference, especially when we work together.
Jackie White