Today we are going to talk about something that affects us all, no matter how big or how small…. RECYCLING!
Contamination is a problem for everyone, Recycling is the easiest way to combat global warming and we its something we all can do!
If we recycle …
- We reduce air pollution and water.
- Generate jobs.
- We preserve our natural resources
- We time the planet from reforested
- We extend the useful life of materials, saving money and resources.
For example, with just four recycled glass bottles, we could achieve a savings equivalent of the amount of energy it would take to operate a refrigerator for an entire day or the amount of energy to wash clothes in a washing machine for a family of 4! Each ton of recycled paper represents an energy saving of 4100KWH and at least 5 trees are saved. Tweet This
Besides just being conscientious, there is much more we can do …
The rule of the 4 R’s: Reduce, Reuse, Replace, Recycle.
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Reduce .. (For me this is the best alternative.)
Reduce consumption of low priced products that have a lifespan or that get used up/wear out very quickly because the environment is really the one that is going to be paying the price of those cheap product at the end of the day. When we buy things, we need to ask ourselves is this something that we really need, and try to make it last as long as possible. Reduce the amount of functional things we are throwing away. Reduce the use of plastic bags at the supermarket, use bags made out of fabric, or bring your own bags back to the store to reback your things so you can get more use out of each one.
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Reuse … Most of what we consider trash can be reused.
Glass containers are the best option, they can be reused as many times as you want and do not lose their quality. They can also be reused with many different types of products. Try to reuse everything you can whether that is reusing it for the same purpose or a different one.
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Replace … Find new packaging options, instead of using plastic or cans, use glass.
Try to find toys or products that do not use batteries. I know this is really difficult, and speaking from experience, my son has always wanted the toys with the most lights and moving parts, but battery acid is the last thing we want filling up our landfills. When needed, try to use rechargeable batteries or take your batteries out of the products when they expire and recycle them.
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Recycle … Last but not least, this is probably the most accessible option for everyone!
Recycling is easy and now a days most cities have their own recycling centers. In some states, recycling is part of state laws! Separate the trash into the separate containers specified by your area. If you happen to live where there are no recycling guidelines pre-established, you can find recycling centers in your local or neighboring communities. Sometimes, they will even give you money for your recyclables, this not only helps the planet but can be very attractive as an incentive for children. Make sure you make yourself aware of what can and cannot be recycled, rinse out plastic bottles being throwing them in the recycling box and take the lids off soda bottles, because many times the caps are not recyclable.
And of course if you’re really creative you can give a new and fun use to your products. With all things in your house that you think no longer have a use or that you don’t want anymore, give them a second chance (cutting, pasting, painting, combining or as you dare)!! Don’t be afraid to pass things on to the next generation, give them away, donate them to charities or to second hand stores, and if all else fails take them to recycling centers!!! Every little bit counts, no matter how small. We all need to do our part to reduce the floating trash island in the Pacific Ocean!
Please feel free to give your thoughts, comments, or questions in the comments below! I would love to hear what you think of all this trash!! GET CREATIVE!
SofiaE!
Data taken from the following link
http://www.concienciaeco.com/2012/08/21/que-es-el-reciclaje/