How to Recycle and Reduce Waste

So many resources can be conserved by recycling that it is no longer just a good idea-it is imperative. With local government passing laws that require recycling it is easier than ever before to do your part to save our natural resources. Recycle and reuse household materials whenever you can. Contact your local sanitation department to find out pickup times and specifics.

• Recycle: Create separate receptacles in your kitchen, laundry room or garage. Have a container for glass, paper, plastic, tin, plus your food scraps. If there is no home pick up in your area, you may have to drop it off your self at a designated location.
• If you have a yard you can compost your scraps for compost. Place soil on top of each layer of scraps. Sprinkle with water. In a few weeks you will have compost. If you had rather compost in a large trash can, you can do that, in a bag, or anything else that will hold the material.
• Buy only recyclable material. Check products you buy to make sure the packaging is recyclable. Avoid foam packaging and buy only recyclable plastic.
• Recycle oil. If you change oil in your car yourself, take the old oil to a gas station to be recycled.
• Buy returnable bottles, and don’t forget to return them.
• Recycle batteries. Many communities collect old batteries .Batteries contain hazardous material. Never throw them in the household trash, and thus contaminate the air, soil, and water.
• Buy products with the least amount of packaging. Bulk products are cheaper and waste less.
• Reuse grocery and shopping bags. Bring your bags with you when you go shopping and use them.
• Avoid paper products that are thrown away after each use. Use cloth napkins, glass, and ceramic dishes.
• Use scrap paper. Always recycle paper in your home for scrap paper, and then recycle.
• Save containers for reuse. Collect jars and bottles for other household uses. Jars make good snack containers. Bottles make good vases. Reuse padded mailing envelopes or bubble wrap.
• Recharge batteries. Investing in a battery charger will save you money and reduce the amount of hazardous waste.
• Take proper care of materials. Many things such as plastic table ware can be used many times with the proper care. Proper care of your clothing and many other things will make them last longer.
• 14. Dispose of toxic material properly. Household cleaners, paint, paint thinners, and other hazardous waste should never be thrown in the trash, or down the drain. Contact your sanitation department to find out how to dispose of hazardous materials properly.
• Use only the water you need. Take short showers, and don’t leave the water running while you are brushing your teeth or washing counters. Everyone can use less water.
• Do not buy water in plastic bottles. There are millions of plastic water bottles in the trash now that will take over a thousand years to disintegrate. The water from your faucet is just as good and likely better for you.
• Don’t drive where you can walk. You will not pollute the atmosphere. Walking is good for your health, and you will save money.